Baghdad - On March 3, 2025, Prime Minister Muhammad Shia al-Sudani announced several initiatives aimed at empowering women during the regular meeting of the Supreme Council for Women, coinciding with the celebration of the National Day for Iraqi Women. The Prime Minister underscored the influential role of women, stating, "He conveyed congratulations and blessings to Iraqi women in all parts of Iraq, praising their effective role in society and its development, and describing them as distinguished women who contribute effectively to building Iraq today."
Among the significant resolutions made during this meeting was the establishment of a center for the education and development of women, located in the Sanjar district of Nineveh Governorate. This center is intended to create training programs to empower women, especially those involved in journalism and media fields. Working closely with the Media and Communications Authority and the Iraqi Media Network, the initiative aims to equip women with skills required for today's labor market.
Al-Sudani's administration recognizes the need for enhanced representation of women within state institutions. To support this cause, the meeting emphasized the importance of financial backing for women's departments within ministries and governorates. A statement from the Prime Minister’s office noted the necessity of inclusion, saying, "The goal is to support women's roles in state institutions and task ministers and governors during the Council of Ministers sessions with supporting women's representation."
During the session, Minister of Labor and Social Affairs was invited to discuss compensation laws for Yazidi women and other affected groups. Suggestions from the session were curated and sent to the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers for review and inclusion, reinforcing the administration's dedication to women's rights and justice.
The emphasis on the women's education center corresponds with Baghdad's recognition as the capital of Arab tourism for 2025. The Council also deliberated on the development of training programs for women working within tourism, antiquities, and hotel management sectors. Such initiatives aim to prepare women for new opportunities, aligning with the nation's broader goal of cultivating inclusive economic growth.
Besides these initiatives, the Prime Minister directed the Ministry of Education to open pre-school education classes for children aged 4 to 6 years, indicating the administration's commitment to family support policies. Ministries and local governments were asked to partner with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs to set up nurseries, allowing working mothers to pursue their careers with the assurance of quality childcare.
These measures signify a transformative moment for women's empowerment and integration within the Iraqi societal framework. The combined strategies focusing not only on employment and education but also on legislative support highlight the government’s commitment to fostering gender equality and enhancing women’s rights.
Reflecting on the meeting, Al-Sudani emphasized the collective responsibility to support women, articulately noting, "the involvement of women is fundamental for the development of the nation’s future." This statement encapsulates the essence of the numerous initiatives being proposed and implemented to instigate change and promote inclusivity throughout Iraq.