From conflict to progress: Women’s advisory boards in action

Empowering women in post-conflict Iraq?

In Iraq, the aftermath of ISIS left a trail of devastation across the provinces of Anbar, Diyala, Kirkuk, Ninewa and Salahaddin. Infrastructure was damaged, access to services was limited and social support was strained. Women in these regions faced additional hurdles: from increased violence to marginalization in decision-making processes, their opportunities for growth and participation were limited.

Enter the women’s advisory boards (WABs), an initiative designed to give women a voice in rebuilding and healing their communities. Together with over 200 local officials, WAB members, who bring diverse expertise and perspectives, work to identify the most pressing challenges facing their communities and advocate for solutions that reflect the needs of all. In a country where women’s empowerment has been sidelined during reconstruction, WABs ensure that women’s needs are not only heard but addressed.

A path to empowerment

Over the past 5 years, WABs have made significant strides. Supported by Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy, they are making tangible changes in their communities. From rehabilitating parks, to making public buildings more accessible to people with disabilities, to using art competitions to raise awareness of women’s issues, their initiatives lead to meaningful change.

A powerful example of the impact of WABs is their work with local organizations and Oxfam-Québec to support women candidates who were vying for seats in the Iraqi parliament.

“We must give women more opportunities to rise, because if we stay restricted to traditions and customs, we will not be able to get ahead,” said Maryam,* an Iraqi participant. ?“Building a better Iraq is not possible without the active participation of women, who make up half of its population,” she said. “Therefore, equally engaging women in decision-making, legislation and peacebuilding processes can inform the decisions that will shape their realities and drive a drastic positive change in the future Iraqis dream of and work hard for.”

Collaborative change for a better future

In partnership with the National Democratic Institute (NDI) Canada’s support for WABs and the “Supporting the Participation of Women’s Advisory Boards in Local Governance” project is enhancing the role of women in both local government and community life.

Together, we can continue to champion the WABs’ critical work and celebrate their contributions to building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.?

*Name has been changed for privacy reasons.