Women in Iraq Today...
Written by J. Bernaerts
The role of women in Iraq is to maintain and protect the family. Since the United States invasion of the country in 2003, the war has left many women with less freedom and fewer rights. Many women are concerned about personal safety, the economic situation, and gender equality. Access to basic services is limited for women, and poverty is rampant. Iraqi women struggle to find their voice, raise/educate their children and maintain a safe and prosperous household. Unfortunately, the war has left women in Iraq with limited options and a myriad of dangers to deal with. The constitution states that laws cannot contradict the established laws of Islam. The Islamic State is oppressive to women. They are put at risk when they go to work, school or simply leave their homes.
The women of Iraq often marry strangers and have no property rights. A majority of them become victims of domestic violence and abuse. Their role is to protect themselves and family members in a society that does not grant them all the rights and privileges that men have. Food is scarce and black outs are common. Adequate drinking water is scarce. A trip to the market to purchase food is very risky, but the women know how important nutrition is. It is difficult for them to attain adequate health care for themselves and their children in war ravaged cities and towns. Women are usuaully stay-at-home mothers, but many of them work in agriculture.
According to the Christian Science Monitor, the war in Iraq increased gender based violence in the country. Kidnappings, rapes and honor killings have soared. Women are afraid to go out. This has impacted their education and employment status. The result has been a huge loss of freedom for a whole generation of girls and women. The role of the young generation is to speak out against discrimination and oppression through non-violent protest and education. The women need the support of sympathetic men in order to bring about positive change. Women realize that they must play a more active role in government. Three females were included on the United States appointed Iraqi Governing Council, however the 18 member committee that drafted the new constitution did not include any women. The women do want to play a role in peace building. Security Council Resolution 1325 calls for women to become involved in initiatives and measures that are needed to bring about peace and reconciliation.
The heroic and brave Iraqi women get involved in civic action. Some of them teach illiterate females how to read and vote. They do this independently of the influence of their husbands. Other women set up sewing workshops. All of them put themselves at mortal risk. Iraq's family code which was established in 1958, guaranteed equality for women in the areas of divorce and inheritance. The new constitution, unfortunately, negates many of the rights for women. It allows clerics and religious courts to dictate what females can and cant't do. Being a woman professional is a huge risk. Many of them have been assassinated.
The role of women in Iraq society is to maintain and protect the family, and work for equality and peace. Since the war began in 2003 women have been subject to rape, domestic violence, neglect, discrimination and poverty. The war torn nation has been a place where women struggle to feed, clothe, house and educate their families. The Islamic State is oppressive and denies women equal rights and access to basic needs. Women have the challenge of overcoming poverty and despair to work for social justice and equal rights. They have become involved in civic action and play a role in peace building. Their bravery and determination are catalysts for change. Women educate the younger generation and men about the importance of peace and equity. The role of women in Iraqi society is crucial to the reconstruction of the country. Iraqi women work to amend legislation that discriminates against them, and insist that all act of violence against females be invesitgated thoroughly. Iraqi women are strong and brave.
More Women's Rights & Iraq...
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