UNAMI and UN-WOMEN organize consultative meetings on women participation in national reconciliation

Participants represented a cross-spectrum of components. The consultations aimed to identify the current challenges hindering women’s participation and representation in the national reconciliation processes, as well as to enhance their participation. The discussions also focused on women political representation in decision-making and the upcoming elections, as well as ways to strengthen the capacity of women to advance peace and security for the stability of Iraq.

In her opening remarks, UNAMI Gender Advisor Mmabatlharo Nono Dihemo, underscored the significance of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolution 2299 of 2016, which mandates UNAMI to advise, support and assist the government of Iraq, in advancing an inclusive, political dialogue and national reconciliation.

“The resolution underscores the need for all Iraqis to participate in the political process and in inclusive political dialogues, including the equal participation of women,” she highlighted.

Ms. Dihemo noted that women have a fundamental role to play in fostering peace and re-establishing the social fabric post-ISIL in Iraq. “The role of women is vital in rebuilding trust among communities,” she added. She also noted that women are best placed to bridge differences and create building blocks of reconciliation, and this should be promoted through inclusive community and national reconciliation and political dialogue.

UN-WOMEN Representative in Iraq, Dina Zorba, highlighted the importance of an inclusive process for a sustainable peace where evidence from around the globe proves that women’s substantive involvement in peace processes lead to a long lasting one. “It is a priority to ensure that Iraqi women participate in all decision-making processes and public levels,” she said.

On his part, Safiruddeen Syed, Head of Human Rights at the UNAMI Office in Kirkuk noted that victims of sexual violence are entitled to justice and redress.​ “Survivors of sexual violence committed in the context of armed conflict are victimized twice over because they are typically denied justice, and left without adequate care and counselling,” he said.

“It is imperative that investigations and prosecutions of perpetrators are carried out because they do have an impact in preventing these horrible crimes,” he added.

Participants urged the UN to empower women IDPs to be women leaders in their communities.

UNAMI and UNWOMEN will continue engaging with civil society organizations and women leaders on women participation and representation in national reconciliation and national dialogue. Continuous meetings will be organized in different governorates including the liberated areas.