Amnesty International calls for action against domestic violence crisis in Iraqi Kurdistan

Women and girls in Iraqi Kurdistan are confronting a severe crisis of domestic violence, with significant hurdles in accessing state protection, according to a recent report by Amnesty International. The autonomous northern region's authorities have come under fire for their failure to prosecute abusers, resulting in the perpetuation of gender-based violence. The criminal justice system, cited as a key factor fueling impunity, has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of survivors.

Amnesty International's findings underscore the alarming trend of authorities not holding perpetrators of domestic violence accountable, even in cases involving murder, rape, beatings, and burnings. The existing protection framework is described as overburdened and inadequately funded, lacking the necessary political commitment to pursue legal action against offenders.

Survivors of domestic violence in Iraqi Kurdistan are facing daunting challenges when seeking protection and justice. The legal system's sluggish and biased nature often exerts pressure on women to withdraw charges against their abusers. Moreover, the conditions in shelters, likened to prisons, sometimes force women back into abusive environments, compounding their vulnerability.

State prosecutors have been criticized for their reluctance to initiate criminal proceedings against abusers, leaving women and girls to navigate the complex legal process on their own. Judges are accused of displaying favoritism towards male perpetrators and prioritizing family cohesion over the safety of women. This systemic failure to address domestic violence has resulted in a tragic toll on the lives of many women in Iraqi Kurdistan.

In response to these grave concerns, Amnesty International is calling for an end to impunity for domestic violence offenders, advocating for thorough investigations and increased support for survivors. The organization also stresses the need for enhanced living conditions in shelters to ensure the well-being of abused women. Through interviews with survivors, aid workers, and officials, Amnesty's research has shed light on the distressing number of women who have lost their lives in Iraqi Kurdistan due to domestic violence.

The plight of women and girls facing domestic violence in Iraqi Kurdistan demands urgent attention and action from authorities and society as a whole. It is imperative to strengthen legal protections, improve support services for survivors, and foster a culture of accountability to combat this pervasive issue. By raising awareness and advocating for change, we can strive towards a future where every individual, regardless of gender, can live free from the threat of violence and abuse.