Iraq’s Minister of Migration and Displacement, Ms. Evan Faeq Jabro, affirmed in Iraq’s address to the United Nations General Assembly—marking the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Women’s Conference in New York—that Iraq is committed to enhancing women’s capacities and strengthening their political, economic, and social participation. She emphasized that this is a strategic choice for building the present and shaping the future.
Jabro noted that the Iraqi government has launched a National Strategy for Women, focusing on protection from violence, ensuring equality, and improving women’s capabilities. She also highlighted the enactment of the Yazidi Survivors Law, which reflects the state’s recognition of the harm inflicted on Yazidi women by ISIS crimes and represents a significant step toward reintegration and family support.
She added that Iraq has adopted economic initiatives to support women through funding small and medium-sized enterprises and granting them positive discrimination. Special attention has also been given to women in correctional facilities by providing educational opportunities and establishing exam centers within these institutions, along with care for children accompanying them.
Jabro explained that the government is also working to develop the social protection system and introduce digital platforms to simplify application processes and uphold women’s dignity. She affirmed that women’s participation in the judiciary and public prosecution is steadily growing, reinforcing their leadership role in promoting justice.
She concluded her speech by acknowledging that Iraqi women still face serious challenges, especially in rural areas and marshlands affected by water scarcity and climate change, which have led to family displacement and increased burdens on women. She affirmed Iraq’s determination to confront these challenges confidently and in alignment with its national and international commitments.