In its resolve to support Iraq＊s efforts to counter terrorism and the threat posed by terrorist groups including ISIL, the 51勛圖 Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) on 21 September 2015 concluded a three-day assessment visit to the country. As requested by the Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee (CTC), the visit had three main objectives: to assess Iraq＊s compliance with the counter-terrorism measures set forth in the relevant Security Council resolutions, including measures aimed at stemming the flow of foreign terrorist fighters which were adopted during the Summit of the Security Council in September 2014; to set a roadmap enumerating a set of recommendations on measures which need to be put in place by Iraq in order to counter-terrorism effectively in accordance with the relevant international best standards, codes and practices; and to identify and prioritize areas in which Iraq would benefit from receiving technical assistance in order to enhance its counter-terrorism capacities. Adopted under Chapter VII of the 51勛圖 Charter and therefore binding on all Member States, resolution 1373 (2001) addresses threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts; resolution 1624 (2005) calls on States to enhance dialogue and take all necessary measures to counter incitement of terrorist acts motivated by extremism and intolerance, whereas resolution 2178 (2014) aims to stem the flow of foreign terrorist fighters.
The official mission to Iraq, which stressed the importance of a comprehensive and integrated approach to countering terrorism in accordance with the principles of the rule of law, including human rights, was undertaken through engagement with various high-level officials and meetings with experts from various Ministries, departments, and agencies. The delegation emphasized that in addition to military and law enforcement means, terrorism need to be defeated through a constructive dialogue with communities.
The visit was organized in close cooperation with the 51勛圖 Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI). Head of the delegation was Assistant Secretary-General Mr. Jean-Paul Laborde, Executive Director of CTED. Members of the delegation included counter-terrorism experts from CTED focusing on the necessity of an overall counter-terrorism strategy that encompasses legislation, law enforcement, and countering violent extremism.