As part of the project “Rights Based Approach to SGBV and Social Cohesion among IDPs and Host Community”, implemented by the Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies at the University of Duhok, Ms. Shirin Salih Hassan, Project Assistant at the Center, participated in the pre-session for outlining the official International Shadow Report for the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland. This initiative is a culmination of a year-long effort under the aforementioned project.

The visit, held from February 18 to 28, 2024, included discussions with representatives from several countries, focusing on the human rights situation in Iraq, particularly issues related to gender-based violence and women’s economic participation.

During her visit, Ms. Shirin, also attended a panel organized by the Lutheran World Federation in Geneva, coinciding with the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign. In her remarks, Ms. Shirin highlighted the resilience and self-reliance of Kurdish women, emphasizing their ability to inspire and support other women despite facing significant challenges and hardships.

The report presented in Geneva reflects findings from a study conducted in May 2024 in Sinjar and Summel, involving the collaborative efforts of the Center for Peace and Conflict Resolution Studies at the University of Duhok, the Lutheran World Federation, Baghdad Women’s Organization, and Alind Organization. The study focuses on various forms of violence against women and girls in Iraq, including family violence, sexual violence, and economic restrictions. It sheds light on the role of entrenched social traditions and gaps in the legal framework that hinder the protection of women’s rights. By employing focus groups and interviews with key informants, the research underscores the urgent need to strengthen legal protections and raise public awareness to effectively address these challenges.

The findings on the status of women and human rights in Kurdistan and Iraq were formally presented to the United Nations. This meeting marked the initial phase, with the main session scheduled for January 2025.

The project “Rights Based Approach to SGBV and Social Cohesion among IDPs and Host Community”, initiated in 2023, aims to promote human rights and foster peaceful coexistence among diverse communities in the region.

UOD Media, December 13, 2024

Fatima Mahmood

Translation: Mehvan M. Salih