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Effective Peer Education on Violence against Women in Iraq

Project Overview

The project was run in conjunction with the Maryam Association. It began in September 2007 and ended in December 2007.

A series of workshops, seminars and an open day were carried out in an attempt to raise awareness of the issues of women’s rights and VAW.

Photo from seminar

Problem / Project Background

During a war, the resulting breakdown in social norms and values often leads to an upsurge in violence against women.

Since the US-led invasion Iraqi women have increasingly become victim to kidnapping, rape, violence, so-called ‘honour killings’ and domestic abuse.

Project Objectives

  • To raise awareness of the issues of women’s rights and Violence Against Women (VAW)

Project Activities

  • Carrying out workshops, training participants on issues related to violence against women and advocacy on women’s rights using participatory techniques, such as role play, case studies and short lectures.
  • Handing out leaflets, posters and key rings promoting the motto of the project ‘Be Kind to Women’.
  • Holding an open day event at the University of Baghdad on the International Day on Combating Violence Against Women (November 27)
  • Carrying out two further seminars in December; one held at the Natural History Museum in Baghdad and one at a local church.

Beneficiaries

The project directly benefited 50 youth leaders and indirectly benefited 1,500 participants who learnt about women’s rights and VAW issues.