The project was funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by UNOPS, in cooperation with the Government of Iraq.

Improving safety and security for more than 2.4 million vulnerable returnees in newly liberated areas was at the core of the project, as it will contribute to promoting law and order while enhancing the relations between the communities and law enforcement. The project entailed procurement of vehicles, as well as the construction and equipping of 28 community police centres in the Governorates of Ninewa, Anbar, Diyala, Salah al Din, and Kirkuk.

In addition, and in cooperation with the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq Human Rights Office, more than 60 police officers were trained on human rights norms and best practices, as well as on gender sensitivity, allowing community police to be better able to respond to the needs of Iraqi communities.

H.E. Fumio Iwai, Ambassador of Japan to Iraq said: “It is time for Iraq to return to its path towards reconstruction and economic recovery after its great victory over Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Economic growth cannot take place in a security vacuum. In this light, I believe this project financed by the Japanese Government is important as it contributes to the capacity building of the community police. I would like to express my sincere appreciation for all who supported this project.”

Brigadier General Khalid Mehana, Director of the Community Police said: “I would like to express my gratitude to the people of Japan, through His Excellency the Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Iraq. I would also like to thank UNOPS for its support, which showed an impressive commitment and dedication to work under challenging circumstances, in order to reach our final goal, which we all celebrate and honour today in this ceremony.”

Mazen Kaloti, UNOPS Project Manager said: “The project builds on the previous success of the partnership between the Government of Japan and UNOPS in supporting the Community Police Directorate.” He added: “UNOPS would like to express its deep gratitude to the Government of Japan for its sustained trust in UNOPS to support the people and the Government of Iraq.”