SRSG Ján Kubiš meets with former women parliamentary election candidates

Baghdad, Iraq - The Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Iraq, Mr. Ján Kubiš, discussed on 17 October 2018 with eight former women parliamentary election candidates the challenges hindering women’s participation in electoral and political processes in the context of the Global Open Day on UNSCR 1325 and 18th Anniversary of UNSCR 1325. He provided an update on UNAMI’s activities advocating for the meaningful participation of women at all levels, in particular commending the women for their resilience and determination during the 12 May elections despite the smear campaigns and insults on social media which targeted women candidates.

The women demanded that women with requisite qualifications should be considered for the positions of Deputy Prime Minister and Vice President and be fully appreciated for the unique qualities and abilities they can bring to the jobs.

SRSG Kubiš said he will continue to press on political leaders to consider implementing recommendations from civil society and women activists related to amendments to the IHEC Laws and enactment of Laws on advancing the equal participation of women in political processes including gender perspectives in the government programme.