Women's activism in Iraqi Kurdistan: Achievements, shortcomings and obstacles

This paper discusses women's activism in Kurdistan-Iraq since 1992. It aims to find out whether 21 years of struggle against gender discrimination has led to notable changes in the status quo. It concludes by arguing that as a result of the patriarchal system's resilience and the women's movement's internal shortcomings, achievements have been limited. The paper draws on 7 in-depth interviews with women activists, written sources, personal communications and my observations while participating in activities organised by women's groups.