IHCHR supports calls to combat violence against women

A delegation from the Iraqi High Commission for Human Rights of Iraq (IHCHR) has participated in a workshop on violence against women organised by IOM-Iraq.

The workshop examined current mechanisms to combat violence against women, compensation for survivors of sexual violence related to armed conflict and extremism, and discussed the Law No. 20 of 2009 on compensation for victims of terrorist operations and military errors.

A group of Yazidi woman who survived their capture by Da'ash (ISIS) spoke about their living conditions after their liberation, along with government shortcomings in dealing with the psychological and physical trauma they suffered, including their ongoing displacement.

The IHCHR was represented by two Commissioners, Mrs Faten Abdul Wahid Al-Hilfi and Mrs Basma Mohammed Mustafa.

Commissioner Al-Hilfi described the role and procedures of the IHCHR to monitor these violations and to propose remedies for the displaced women.

The workshop reached several recommendations to strengthen support for women who are victims of conflict-related violence, including: supporting their return to study and excluding them from age-related study restrictions; providing jobs opportunities for the women and their families; and simplifying the procedures for obtaining the necessary identification documents.

Participants at the workshop also requested support from the international community and the Iraqi Government to provide the necessary protection vulnerable women and girls with the necessary protection and support.

A number of members of the Council of Representatives – drawn from committees on human rights, law and legislation and women – also attended, along with representatives from the Directorate of Woman's Empowerment in the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers.

Date: 16 July 2019

Source: High Commission for Human Rights of Iraq