Anbar, 18 September 2024 – In a joint effort with the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and Anbar Governorate, UNFPA celebrates the launch of the first Women Protection Centre in Ramadi, Anbar. This initiative, made possible through French Government funding, and UN-Habitat’s support, addresses the urgent need for comprehensive services for women and girls who are survivors of violence.

The centre will provide support to all women and girls, including medical, psychosocial, and legal aid, job opportunities, and help with reintegrating them into society. The facility was handed over to the local authorities, who are responsible for its ongoing operation and meeting community needs.

Led by UN-Habitat, the construction phase generated 1,915 daily  job opportunities for around 92 skilled and unskilled local workers from Anbar, highlighting the project's substantial economic impact on the community since its inception.

Attending the ceremony, Mr Patrick Durel, France’s Ambassador to Iraq, stated that: “France is proud to support the establishment of the third Women Protection Centre in Iraq and first in Ramadi, a vital initiative that addresses the critical needs of survivors of violence. This center symbolizes our shared commitment to human rights and the empowerment of women and girls, providing them with the resources, protection, and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives. By standing with Iraq in this effort, we contribute to fostering safer, more inclusive communities where every woman and girl can thrive.”

"With the inauguration of the Women Protection Center in Anbar, we are taking a crucial step toward fulfilling UNFPA's commitment to protecting and empowering survivors of violence. This center builds upon our efforts to establish and rehabilitate other protection facilities across Iraq, which are vital in our mission to empower women and girls everywhere. It will provide essential services that not only meet immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for long-term healing and empowerment, enabling survivors to heal, grow, and become agents of change in their communities. Furthermore, UNFPA is actively collaborating with the government to strengthen policy frameworks aimed at preventing all forms of violence against women and girls," stated Mr. Garik Hayrapetyan, UNFPA Acting Representative to Iraq.

“By establishing and equipping the Women Protection Centre in Anbar, UN-Habitat collaborates with the Governorate of Anbar towards creating a safer urban environments for all residents, specially the women population made vulnerable out of violent episodes.The project exemplifies our commitment to promote safer cities and contribute to a broader vision of sustainable urban development, leaving no one and no place behind”  said Mr. Ryosuke Teraoke, Head of the Kurdistan Region of UN-Habitat Iraq Office.

The building of the Women Protection Centre in Anbar was part of the  project, “Protection and improvement of the living conditions of women and girls survivors of Violence through the establishment and equipment of Women Protection Centres,”. UNFPA currently supports four women’s protection centres in Iraq, which serve as safe havens for women and girls. These centres aim to enhance the well-being and future prospects of survivors.

With the opening of the Women Protection Center in Anbar, a future is envisioned where survivors of violence receive the care, support, and opportunities necessary for rebuilding their lives. This project highlights the vital role of establishing safe spaces that provide both protection and empowerment to women and girls. 

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For more information, please contact:

Ms Sahar Alsaffouri, Communications Analyst – UNFPA +9647702711274 I alsaffouri@unfpa.org

Mrs Ana Paes, Communication Officer – UN-Habitat: ana.paes@un.org