Iraqi First Lady, KRG Deputy PM Attend Zhnan-Kurdistan Women’s Union Congress

Iraqi First Lady's Media

Iraqi First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed and KRG Deputy PM Qubad Talabani at the congress.

The Zhnan-Kurdistan Women’s Union's congress kicked off on Monday, 21 April 2025, under the theme “Women, Struggle, Life.” The three-day congress brings together 220 members from across the Kurdistan Region to discuss key issues related to women's rights, empowerment, and future organisational strategies.

Iraqi First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed and Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, both participated in the event.

At the opening ceremony of the event, First Lady Ahmed underscored the importance of solidarity and cooperation among women in the pursuit of equality, social justice, and in confronting all forms of discrimination.

She noted that the organisational struggle continues to secure full rights for women, many of whom still face violence and gender-based killings.

The First Lady also emphasised that the protection and empowerment of women remain a national priority. She called for the development of a comprehensive national strategy to advance women's rights and ensure their needs are integrated into broader development plans.

She also expressed hope that the conference would meet its objectives by selecting capable and committed leaders who can effectively advocate for women's rights. In recognition of their contributions and sacrifices in striving for a dignified life for women, First Lady Ahmed honoured several women during the event.

Meanwhile, Deputy PM Talabani congratulated the Kurdistan Women’s Union and hoped for this event to mark a new step forward in advancing their mission and expanding their efforts.

“I extend my sincere congratulations to the Kurdistan Women’s Union on the occasion of holding their congress,” Talabani said in a post on his Facebook page. “I hope this event marks a new step forward in advancing their mission and expanding their efforts.”

He added: “I was pleased to take part in today’s congress to reaffirm our continued support for the women of Kurdistan and the Kurdistan Women’s Union. I commend the Union for its 35 years of unwavering struggle in pursuit of the rights of Kurdish women.”

The Zhnan-Kurdistan Women's Union was founded on 3 November 1989, during the armed struggle in the mountains, by a group of female activists.



PUKMEDIA