Speech by Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq On International Women’s Day Celebrating Iraqi Women

It is a great pleasure to participate in this event on the occasion of International Women’s Day. My pleasure is even greater as we celebrate Iraqi women—past, present, and future—here in this Abbasid palace.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the organizers of this event, especially Dr. Nawar and her colleagues, for their commendable efforts in promoting women’s rights, which is deeply appreciated by us at the United Nations.

I also take this opportunity to express my deep admiration for Iraqi women and the sacrifices they have made over the years, despite the difficult situations and challenges they have faced. I say this with complete honesty and sincerity: Iraqi women are a shining example for women everywhere.

History records, in golden letters, the names of Iraqi women who have contributed to the progress of humanity. And I am not just speaking of modern history, I am referring to a rich, ancient civilization with deep roots in history. Iraqis, both men and women, have every right to take pride in this great legacy.

And let me be frank: Iraq today lacks a more active role for Iraqi women. Their presence in decision-making positions remains limited, and I believe that the time has come for Iraqi women to take on greater responsibilities and hold key positions in decision-making circles.

Our focus must be on the future—on how to transform reality for the better, how to turn challenges into opportunities, and opportunities into concrete, actionable programs. After all, challenges create opportunities, and opportunities give rise to leaders.

Why not dream? What prevents us from dreaming that, in the near future, we will see an Iraqi Woman as President of the Republic, Prime Minister, or Speaker of Parliament? In my view, Iraq’s Constitution is among the most advanced in the region, and it provides ample space for women to contribute to shaping Iraq’s future. The Constitution and Judiciary are among the major pillars of the nation and citizens and preserving an independent and fair Judiciary is a sacred national duty.

Iraq is a unique country, with its own distinct identity. We must capitalize on this uniqueness to draw a roadmap for tomorrow’s Iraq—an Iraq of hope, an Iraq of civilization, an Iraq where all citizens are equal based on the principle of citizenship.

Ladies and gentlemen

Distinguished guests 

I personally do not believe in imported stereotypes. Iraq is rich in its own cultural, historical, and social heritage, and I believe that Iraq is capable of developing its own plans and visions to empower women in a way that aligns with its traditions and values.

And I say it loudly: 

Long live Iraqi women—with their knowledge and their cultural heritage, from Al-Faw in the south to Zakho in the north.

I can only reaffirm that the international community and the United Nations will remain steadfast in supporting Iraqi women and their aspirations. I also call upon Iraqis and decision-makers to preserve the achievements of Iraqi women.

Allow me to conclude my remarks with a few lines of Iraqi poetry. I do not know the name of the poet, but these verses were written about Iraqi women—specifically those from Basra. They resonated with me deeply. I present them here with some slight modifications, seeking the poet’s permission and forgiveness:

A blessing is the daughter of Iraq, and blessed is her name,

She bore the nation's burdens alongside her own worries,

The daughters of the country are pearls and a necklace of coral,

My pen is perplexed, not knowing what to write about her,

She is from Basra,
And I say,
She is the free daughter of Iraq, a thousand times free,

She is noble like a palm tree, with golden skin and dark eyes,

Her soul is enriched with forgiveness; and does not know anger,

Unto you are my blessings and sincere greetings,

Thank you.