In a ceremony held on 25 November 2014 by the Kurdistan Regional Government High Council for Women Affairs, marking the launch of a world-wide two-week campaign of combating violence against women, Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani pointed out that this year’s campaign is different from the past years as ISIS terrorist organisation has been abusing women as a military strategy. He said, “Women, particularly those who reside in areas affected by war, are living in dire humanitarian and psychological conditions”. He particularly highlighted the plight of the Yezidi Kurdish women, abducted by ISIS.
On women conditions in the Kurdistan Region, Prime Minister Barzani welcomed the progress made by women in numerous fields. He said, “Women are actively engaged in politics, legislation, various organizations and professions. With their hard work and government support they hold 30 percent of the seats in Parliament. We hope this quota will also be replicated in future cabinets.”
The day before, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Women Rights Monitoring Board had set up a committee in charge of the situation of Yezidi Kurdish women, who have been abducted by the terrorist organization IS. The purpose of the committee is to gather information and precise data concerning the kidnaped women, to strengthen future aid missions. Deputy Prime Minister Talabani emphasized the importance of aid for Yezidi girls and women and urged all organizations and relevant bodies to cooperate effectively.
For the entire speech of the Prime Minister, click here.
(Pictures copyright Rudaw News)