We commemorated 16 days of activism to end GBV in Duhok, Zakho, and Erbil!
During 16 days of activism to end GBV, we held events with local government, academic institutions, NGOs, and INGOs in Duhok Governorate, Zakho Independent Administration, and Erbil Governorate!
The Directorate of Combating Violence Against Women and Families (DCVAW), which collaborated with local and international NGOs, including The Lotus Flower, to plan the opening event, hosted the first event in Duhok on November 25. The Mayor of Duhok, DCVAW Director, representative of Nawroz University President, Duhok Police, UN representatives, and GBV-Cluster participants from Duhok were attendees.
This gathering focused on important advocacy elements like programs empowering survivors and educating the community, showcasing the joint work of the government and NGOs to address gender-based violence (GBV). During the event, DCVAW acknowledged The Lotus Flower’s work as a part of the Duhok GBV cluster, highlighting our contributions and expressing their appreciation for our efforts. The DCVAW Director also emphasised the need for continued advocacy and awareness-raising efforts to prevent and respond to gender-based violence in the community.
The second event, the first-ever 16 Days of Activism in the Zakho Independent Administration. It was organised in collaboration with DCVAW-Zakho, the University of Zakho, and various local and international NGOs, including The Lotus Flower. The event featured a gallery of artworks addressing GBV and the co-production of a short film on the subject and a panel discussion. - The mayor of Zakho—representatives of the Zakho Independent Administration. The University of Zakho president - Other key stakeholders from international NGOs, including the UN and others. The Lotus Flower’s meaningful work was acknowledged and appreciated on stage during this remarkable event.
We proudly participated in the third event, which CARE Iraq jointly organised with us and which united voices to combat gender-based violence in Erbil.
The general director of DCVAW, representatives from the European Union's humanitarian aid, and numerous NGOs and INGOs were present at the event. The event had two panel discussions highlighting key issues and solutions. Our regional director, Vian, moderated one panel, while our senior case worker, Shaima, discussed the challenges IDPs face without IDs and the services we provide under the General Protection Project in partnership with CARE.
Women Committee Member Faiza also shared insights into their impactful work, and we had a side event, selling products by women entrepreneurs, and our talented music facilitators delivered a music performance.
Technology-facilitated GBV panel discussion
As part of the 16 Days of Activism Campaign, the University of Duhok’s Centre of Gender Studies, in coordination with us, High Consul for Women and Development and UN-Women, hosted a panel discussion on technology-facilitated GBV.
This event was held at the University of Duhok’s Students Centre, where we hosted students from different departments. They had a time to listen and know more about TF-GBV and its different forms. Panellists included DCVAW representatives, UoD teachers, and advisors, who shared their fruitful discussions on combating cyber abuse in the panel. students, and other attendees were keen to share their ideas and ask questions during the discussion. An impactful awareness video by us on cyber abuse was also screened, sparking meaningful dialogue among attendees.
One more event!
Our General Protection Project in partnership with CARE Iraq, funded by the European Union Humanitarian Aid, ended the 16 Days of Activism campaign to end GBV with an impactful outdoor event at the University of Duhok’s Students’ Centre.
We invited 16 inspiring women entrepreneurs to support their small businesses. The event was filled with engaging activities, including questions on GBV, a silent theatre performance, an art gallery addressing GBV, and an incredible music performance.
We also screened awareness videos on cyber safety and the importance of education for girls, produced by CARE Iraq. Together, we raised our voices for change and promoted a future free from gender-based violence.
