Advancing Women's Rights and Economic Empowerment in Iraq: A Human Rights and Rule of Law Perspective

Women's Participation in Institutions: A Call for Reform and Equality

The Ministry of Planning has revealed that the participation of women in small and medium enterprises in Iraq remains alarmingly low, accounting for only 5% compared to men. This statistic underscores the pressing need to address systemic barriers that hinder women’s economic empowerment and participation in key sectors. During a workshop on supporting and developing micro, small, and medium enterprises, the Undersecretary for Technical Affairs, Maher Hammad Johan, emphasized the importance of promoting the private sector as part of the ministry's strategy to enhance economic development. Efforts are being directed toward overcoming obstacles that limit the growth of these enterprises, particularly by extending financial and logistical support.

The ministry also highlighted the need to focus on women’s inclusion in these efforts, urging the private sector to leverage the findings of a recent survey conducted by the Central Bureau of Statistics, in collaboration with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). This survey, which covered the governorates of Baghdad, Nineveh, and Basra, provides a roadmap for empowering women and integrating them into the economy as active contributors.

A Human Rights Perspective: Addressing Gender Inequality

From a human rights perspective, the marginalization of women in Iraq’s economic and political spheres violates fundamental principles of equality and non-discrimination. Women’s economic participation is not merely an individual right but a cornerstone of societal progress. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and CEDAW (Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women) explicitly call for the elimination of gender-based discrimination and the promotion of women’s full participation in economic, social, and political life.

The current 5% participation rate reflects entrenched cultural, structural, and legal barriers that deny women equal opportunities. These barriers perpetuate cycles of poverty and dependence, undermining women’s ability to exercise their rights fully. It is imperative that Iraq adopts a rights-based approach to economic development by ensuring that women have access to education, training, and resources necessary to succeed in entrepreneurial ventures. Furthermore, targeted initiatives to dismantle patriarchal norms and stereotypes are essential to creating an environment where women can thrive as equal participants in society.

The Rule of Law and Women’s Empowerment

The rule of law is a critical framework for addressing gender inequality and ensuring justice for women. In Iraq, systemic legal and institutional challenges, including discriminatory laws and weak enforcement mechanisms, contribute to the exclusion of women from economic and political processes. For instance, the quota system in parliament, which reserves a minimum of 25% of seats for women, is often seen as a token gesture rather than a genuine opportunity for women to lead and influence policy. Women’s representation in decision-making positions must go beyond quotas to ensure equitable access to political competition and legislative influence.

The lack of robust legal protections for women in the workforce, combined with insufficient enforcement of anti-discrimination laws, further exacerbates their marginalization. To uphold the rule of law, Iraq must enact and enforce legislation that guarantees equal opportunities, protects women from workplace discrimination, and provides recourse for violations of their rights. This includes addressing barriers to women’s access to credit, property ownership, and financial independence, which are essential for fostering their participation in small and medium enterprises.

Historical and Cultural Context: The Struggle for Equality

The struggle for women’s rights in Iraq reflects broader historical and cultural dynamics. Women have faced systemic oppression rooted in patriarchal systems that have historically relegated them to subordinate roles. While feminist movements have made significant strides in advocating for equality, they often encounter resistance from traditional societal structures. This tension is evident in the ongoing debates about women’s roles in public life, where progress is frequently undermined by cultural norms that prioritize men’s authority.

Marxist and socialist perspectives have long highlighted the economic dimensions of women’s oppression, arguing that true liberation requires dismantling capitalist systems that perpetuate class and gender inequalities. However, economic independence alone is insufficient; intellectual and cultural struggles are equally critical in challenging deeply ingrained stereotypes and empowering women to assert their rights.

In Iraq, women’s participation in protests alongside men has demonstrated their resilience and determination to advocate for change. Despite facing persecution, violence, and systemic exclusion, Iraqi women have shown that their struggle is not a battle against men but a collective fight for justice and equality. This unity underscores the importance of addressing structural issues within Iraq’s political and economic systems, which perpetuate inequality for both men and women.

Moving Forward: A Holistic Approach to Women’s Empowerment

To achieve meaningful progress, Iraq must adopt a holistic approach to women’s empowerment that integrates human rights principles and the rule of law. This includes:

1. Legal Reforms: Enact and enforce laws that promote gender equality, protect women from discrimination, and ensure their access to economic opportunities.

2. Education and Training: Provide women with the skills and resources needed to participate in small and medium enterprises, including access to credit and financial literacy programs.

3. Cultural Change: Challenge patriarchal norms and stereotypes through public awareness campaigns and community engagement initiatives.

4. Political Participation: Strengthen women’s representation in decision-making positions by creating pathways for their active involvement in political and legislative processes.

By addressing the root causes of inequality and fostering an inclusive environment, Iraq can unlock the potential of its women as drivers of economic growth and social progress. Women’s empowerment is not only a matter of justice but a prerequisite for building a stable, prosperous, and equitable society.