UK Reaffirms Commitment to Collaborate with Iraq, Kuwait, and Tripartite Commission for Families of Missing Persons – UN Security Council Update

Unresolved Consequences of Conflict

The ramifications of conflict extend far beyond the cessation of hostilities. For families grappling with the absence of loved ones, uncertainty regarding their fate can persist for generations, leaving a profound emotional toll.

Addressing this uncertainty is not merely a duty; it is a vital humanitarian obligation. Currently, 315 Kuwaiti and third-country nationals remain unaccounted for, with no new identifications reported since the last update from the Secretary-General. This situation highlights both the complexity of the task at hand and the necessity of maintaining our commitment to exploring every possible avenue that may yield answers for these families.

Collaborative Efforts for Resolution

We commend the initiatives undertaken by the Secretary-General’s Senior Representative, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the Tripartite Commission. The United Kingdom is honoured to support these endeavours as a member of the Commission.

Practical measures are being implemented, including DNA analysis, the application of geospatial tools, a revised communication strategy, and renewed appeals for witnesses. We are optimistic that these strategies will facilitate further advancements in this critical area.

However, it is essential to recognise that technology alone cannot furnish all the answers required. Reliable witness accounts are crucial, and the pool of potential witnesses will inevitably diminish over time. Consequently, we urge anyone with pertinent information to step forward, and we encourage all parties involved to continue their efforts in identifying potential witnesses and pursuing every credible lead.

Establishing Measurable Progress

In addition, it is vital to create a common and practical framework for evaluating progress in this matter. We encourage the Tripartite Commission to agree on specific indicators that will help direct collective efforts and provide an objective basis for assessing progress ahead of the Council’s review in 2028.

Furthermore, we advocate for renewed discussions regarding the separate issue of missing Kuwaiti property, including national archives. This should entail the reinstatement of the Joint Committee focused on missing Kuwaiti property.

Building Trust and Cooperation

Finally, the mechanism established by Resolution 2792 presents a valuable opportunity to foster cooperation and cultivate mutual trust. We appreciate the Senior Representative’s ongoing engagement with both nations and reaffirm our commitment to supporting her mandate.

The United Kingdom remains dedicated to collaborating with Iraq, Kuwait, and our partners in the Tripartite Commission as we strive towards our shared objective: to provide answers to families who have waited far too long for closure.