Iraq

For the past two decades, Saddam Hussein, a brutal and vicious dictator whose administration was notorious for high levels of torture and mass murder, ruled Iraq.  In March 2003, the United States invaded Iraq and ousted the Hussein regime.  Over the past few years, Iraqis have participated in democratic elections to approve a constitution and establish a full-term government.  However, efforts to rebuild Iraq have been precluded by the continued presence of a robust insurgency.  Furthermore, United Nations sanctions placed on Iraq following the invasion of Kuwait have virtually destroyed the Iraqi economy and infrastructure.  Despite these challenges, members of the Women Waging Peace Network have built strong coalitions across religious and ethnic lines to foster tolerance, promote civil rights, and improve the socioeconomic conditions of the Iraqi people.

Learn more about the Iraqi members of the Women Waging Peace Network.

Inclusive Security Recommendations
Building a New Iraq: Women's Role in Reconstruction

Conflict Background
BBC Country Profile 
Center for Strategic and International Studies
Council on Foreign Relations
International Crisis Group
United States Institute of Peace
US Department of State Office of International Women's Issues: Iraq
UNIFEM Portal on Women, Peace & Security: Iraq

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