UN Women Hosts Strategic Coordination Meeting with NDIW and HCWD to Bolster Women’s Empowerment and Security in Iraq

29 August 2024, Erbil - UN Women convened a high-level coordination meeting with the National Directorate for Iraqi Women (NDIW) and High Council for Women and Development (HCWD), marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to advance women’s empowerment and security throughout Iraq.

The meeting kickstarted with opening remarks by the Secretary – General of the HCWD, Dr. Khanzad Ahmad who began with a warm welcome to the NDIW delegation and a review of the current political landscape’s impact on the status of women in Iraq. Dr. Khanzad acknowledged the need to strengthen communication between NDIW and HCWD, emphasizing the importance of enhancing collaboration to achieve shared goals.

Dr. Yousra Al-Alaq, Director General of NDIW, delivered an inspiring address, expressing optimism about the strengthened coordination between the Erbil and Baghdad. She praised UN Women for its instrumental role in facilitating these efforts and reflected on key achievements, including the successful launch of the National Strategy for Iraqi Women for 2023 – 2030. Dr. Yusra further emphasized the strategic importance of HCWD as a vital partner in the Kurdistan Region, underscoring the council's critical role in shaping the future of women’s rights and development.

In his remarks, UN Women Representative, Mr. Ajay Madiwale, highlighted the organization’s strategic interventions and notable accomplishments. He reaffirmed UN Women’s unwavering commitment to support the Government of Iraq in Baghdad and Erbil, stressing the essential need to embed women’s perspectives in governance and decision-making processes at all levels.

The meeting centered on strengthening communication and collaboration between national and regional entities, where participants reviewed key achievements and outlined ambitious initiatives for 2024 and beyond. These include the development of the Iraqi Women's Data Platform, the establishment of a Women’s Institute for Security and Peace, and the creation of a localized plan for Dohuk Governorate, alongside preparations for the National Action Plan (NAP) III and a thorough evaluation of NAP II. The discussions highlighted the critical role of sustained collaboration, supported by UN Women, in driving transformative change and advancing the shared vision of equality and the Women, Peace, and Security agenda in Iraq.

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