Kurdistan Regional Government Concludes 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence
In a culminating event for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Minister of Interior Reber Ahmed emphasized the collective responsibility to take tangible actions in advancing freedoms for women. The closing ceremony, held under the guidance of Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, was organized by the High Council for Women and Development (HCWD) in collaboration with the United Nations in Iraq.
During the event, Dr. Khanzad Ahmad, Secretary General of Kurdistan’s High Council for Women and Development, highlighted the commitment of the Ninth Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, to prioritize the fight against GBV. She expressed gratitude to police officers from the Directorate of Combating Violence, as well as various government offices and NGOs for their efforts in combating femicide.
The United Nations Secretary-General's UNITE to End Violence against Women campaign, themed "Orange the World," has annually advocated for global action against violence against women since 2008.
"Even though the 16-day campaign against violence against women is over, our struggle against (gender-based) violence continues and will not end,” Minister Reber Ahmed affirmed.
Minister Ahmed underscored the pivotal role of awareness in breaking the cycle of violence, emphasizing the need for education in universities and schools to foster a culture of acceptance and to challenge outdated traditions that victimize women. He highlighted the influential role religious leaders can play in promoting moderate ideas and thoughts, fostering an environment that champions diversity, equality, and justice.
Attended conclusion of the 16-days of activism against #GBV campaign, and declaration of #HumanRightsDay in #Kurdistan Region — emphasizing #KRG’s commitment to women's rights and empowerment.
— Safeen Dizayee (@SafeenDizayee) December 10, 2023
Thanks to @DrKhanzad, #UN and all those involved in organizing such impactful event. pic.twitter.com/1QP3N2ConP
The minister reaffirmed the KRG's commitment to being a strong defender of victims of violence, ensuring stringent punishment for perpetrators. He stressed the importance of translating promises into action, advocating for the implementation of comprehensive plans to address GBV and create a world where women and all individuals are safe from violence.
Fenk Shafeeq, the head of the General Directorate of Combating Violence, addressed the growing concern of cybercrimes, citing an increase in groups exploiting social media applications for blackmail. Shafeeq assured a robust response, highlighting strong coordination within the Asayish and an operations room dedicated to combating cybercrimes.
Aya Sarchil, the head of the High Council for Women and Development, drew attention to budget cuts by Baghdad since 2014, impacting the KRG's ability to provide resources and empowerment opportunities for women. She noted the correlation between economic challenges and an alarming 116% increase in divorce cases from 2014 to 2022, contributing to risks such as early marriage and human trafficking.
In conclusion, Sarchil called for sustained efforts to address economic challenges and implement effective measures to ensure the safety and empowerment of women in the region.
