“High voter turnout will be key in ensuring a parliament and government that are representative of all Iraqis,” said EU Ambassador Martin Huth. “By supporting the organisation of the elections, the EU hopes to build the confidence among the Iraqi people in their elections and help IHEC establish a free, fair and inclusive electoral process that is deserving of their trust.”

The European Union’s contribution to the UN assistance project comes in addition to funding from Germany, the Netherlands and France, bringing total contributions from the EU and its member states to USD 18.6 million.

On behalf of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement with the EU on 8 April to manage the financing and administration of the project. The United Nations thanks the European Union for its contribution, which strengthens Iraq’s ability to hold free, fair and transparent elections in Iraq.