Violence Against Women in Iraq Factsheet

Violence against women and girls is a violation of human rights, causing physical, sexual and psychological suffering. Violence against women limits their ability to realise their legal, social, political and economic rights and participate in Iraq's development. Eradicating violence against women is a crucial part of Iraq's efforts to promote gender equality and empower women in all spheres of life (Millennium Development Goal Three) and will provide impetus to Iraq's efforts to achieve all of the Millennium Development Goals.

Although women's political representation has increased and the Government of Iraq has committed to achieving MDG 3, this has not yet translated into a broader recognition of gender equality across Iraqi society and government bodies.