The Center for Gender Equality Studies at the University of Duhok recently concluded a comprehensive 6-day in-person program in collaboration with the American Corner-Duhok to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The program, which took place on Sundays and Mondays from November 12 to 27, 2023, was designed to address critical issues such as effective communication between genders, UN Resolution 1325, Sustainable Development Goal No. 5, and women’s active participation in leadership, negotiations, and economic development. The program aimed to raise awareness about the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in society.

The program’s curriculum was designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by women in leadership positions and to equip them with the necessary skills to overcome these challenges. The program’s emphasis on effective communication between genders is particularly noteworthy, as it highlights the importance of mutual respect and understanding in promoting gender equality. The program’s focus on UN Resolution 1325 and Sustainable Development Goal No. 5 underscores the importance of international cooperation in achieving gender equality and women’s empowerment. The program’s emphasis on women’s active participation in leadership, negotiations, and economic development is a testament to the Center for Gender Equality Studies’ commitment to promoting women’s rights and gender equality.

Throughout the program, a distinguished panel of speakers, including experts from the University’s Department of Peace and Human Rights, American Corner-Duhok, and other esteemed academic members, led discussions on pertinent topics. Participants, drawn from various disciplines across the University, engaged in insightful exploration of different communication styles, the key provisions of UN Resolution 1325, and the targets of Sustainable Development Goal No. 5. The program also provided a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities women encounter in leadership, negotiations, and economic development.

As the program concludes, participants are now equipped with a heightened awareness of gender-related issues and strategies to advocate for women’s empowerment. The University of Duhok commends the commitment of all participants in fostering gender equality and sustainable development. We anticipate that the knowledge gained and connections established during this program will have a positive and lasting impact within our university community and beyond