The Government of Iraq has committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals under Iraq Vision for Sustainable Development 2015-2030.

The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint for all to achieve a better and more sustainable future, with Goal 5 aiming to achieve gender equality and empowerment of women, with targets encompassing political, economic and social equality, including, but not limited to, ending all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, eliminating all harmful practices, ensuring women’s full and effective participation and equal opportunities, and ensuring universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights.

In this respect, the endorsement of the updated National Strategy to -Combat Violence against Women and Girls is yet another win for women and girls in Iraq. UNFPA is proud to have collaborated with the Government of Iraq, especially the Department for Women Empowerment, to develop this national strategy.