Kurdistan Regional Government Takes Action Against Gender-Based Violence During UN's 16 Days of Activism
Rebar Ahmed, the Interior Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), convened a crucial meeting on Tuesday with representatives from the KRG High Council for Women and Development, the General Directorate of Combating Violence against Women, and various civil society organizations. The gathering was part of the United Nations' 16 Days of Activism against violence against women, focusing on evaluating the status of women in the Kurdistan Region and discussing strategies to enhance their role in community development and growth.
In a statement shared on X, the KRG Interior Minister emphasized the importance of addressing women's issues and fostering their active participation in society. The meeting comes on the heels of a significant event in March when Prime Minister Masrour Barzani presided over a conference for International Women's Day, during which the KRG's High Council for Women and Development signed a memorandum of understanding with the UN to collaborate on women-related matters.
As part of the #16days of activism against violence on women, I was honored to meet with representatives from @HighHcwa and Directorates of Combating Violence against Women #DCVAW across #Kurdistan as well as civil society organizations. The meeting centered around assessing the… pic.twitter.com/tHMRzi65cV
— Rêber Ahmed (@RayberAhmed) December 5, 2023
While strides have been made in combating female genital mutilation (FGM), a historical stigma in the region, reports indicate that 4.3% of surveyed mothers in the Kurdistan Region expressed intentions to carry out FGM on their daughters in secret, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and awareness.
The Kurdistan Region has also faced a pressing issue concerning honor killings, particularly related to perceived infidelity and relationships outside of wedlock. Alarming statistics revealed that within a span of just two months in early 2022, the region witnessed nine honor killings. Responding to this, Prime Minister Masrour Barzani expressed deep concern, stating, "I'm deeply troubled by recent violence towards women in Kurdistan Region. I reiterate what I have said; there is no honor in honor killing."
The KRG remains committed to addressing these challenges, working collaboratively with various organizations and the United Nations to create a safer and more inclusive environment for women in the Kurdistan Region. As the 16 Days of Activism continue, the government aims to reinforce its efforts towards eradicating gender-based violence and promoting gender equality.
