The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Country Office in Iraq and the United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC) organized training to enhance the Kurdistan Regional Government's capabilities in resolving electronic crimes and protecting the lives of women and girls from digital harassment. The sessions were held from 26 Feb to 01 March in Valencia, Spain, with the participation of the Digital Forensic Lab personnel of the Ministry of Interior of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. 

Given the emergence of electronic crimes as a significant threat to individuals and society, the training provided a comprehensive understanding of the various types of such crimes, including cyberbullying, online harassment, and identity theft. Participants also gained hands-on experience conducting digital forensic investigations, collecting and preserving electronic evidence, and presenting their findings in court.

Participating in the training, Ali Abdaky, the UNFPA ICT Associate said “One of the key highlights of the training was the focus on protecting the lives of women and girls from digital harassment. Participants learned about the unique challenges faced by women and girls in the digital age, including the increased risk of cyberbullying, stalking, and online sexual abuse.”

“It was also very enriching to discuss practical strategies and tools to effectively investigate and prosecute cases of digital harassment against women and girls,” he added

Recognizing the importance of international cooperation in combating electronic crimes, attendees also had the opportunity to network with experts from different countries and share best practices in digital forensics and digital harassment protection. This collaboration fostered a sense of community and solidarity and the need to work together to address this global issue.

“The training not only equips participants with essential digital forensic skills but also ignites advocacy for women and girls' digital safety. Participants are committed to leveraging their expertise for societal impact and inspire future generations of digital forensic professionals to uphold the principles of justice and equality,” concluded Tima Soni, Chief of the UNICC Cybersecurity Division.

The training activities took place at the UNICC Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence, which offers a wide array of common cybersecurity solutions to strengthen the United Nations system’s cyber posture.