The Center for Natural History Research at the University of Baghdad conducted a workshop on “Human Rights Law in Protecting Women,” which featured Assist.Lecturer. Fatima Hussein and Agricultural Inspector Aliya Ismail. They presented and discussed legal texts dating back to the era of Hammurabi.
The workshop aimed to address and amend certain unjust and inequitable laws affecting women. It highlighted that some provisions in Iraqi law undermine women’s rights and dignity. Specifically, Article 409 permits the killing of women under the pretext of “honor killing,” and Article 41 allows husbands to inflict violence on their wives under the guise of “discipline.” Numerous international conferences on women’s rights have emphasized the need for women to fully and equally enjoy their rights without any discrimination compared to men, including equal opportunities in employment.
The recommendations from the workshop underscored that the Iraqi government and society should recognize and uphold the unique status and dignity of women. They should also support and protect women, and implement the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by acknowledging women as the foundation of society and ensuring the full realization of their rights.