On 10 and 11 September 2024, the EU-ACT 2 project, funded by the European Union through the Global Illicit Flows Programme (GIFP), organised a workshop in Baghdad to address the challenges faced by Iraqi women in the security sector. Participants from the Office of the National Security Advisor (ONSA), the Ministry of Interior, and the High Judicial Council explored solutions to increase women’s participation and promotion in efforts to combat organised crime. Senior women leaders from Italy and Spain shared their experiences, inspiring proposals such as media campaigns and mentoring programmes to support gender inclusivity in Iraq’s justice and security institutions.
High-level representatives from EU Member States and international stakeholders attended the workshop, underscoring the EU’s commitment to gender equity in global security initiatives. Notable attendees included Thomas Seiler, Head of the EU Delegation to Iraq; Michelle Facciorusso, Security Expert; David Healy, Deputy Head of Delegation; Alicia Rico Pérez del Pulgar, Spanish Ambassador to Iraq; and Juliette Gundy, NATO Ambassador and Senior Civilian Representative to Iraq. Isabel Candela, Deputy Head of Unit at the EU’s Service for Foreign Policy Instruments (FPI), chaired the event.
The discussions, held over the two days, contributed to ongoing efforts to overcome gender-based barriers and empower women in Iraq’s security sector. By leveraging shared experiences and fostering cooperation, the EU-ACT 2 project continues to drive initiatives that enhance inclusivity and strengthen the fight against organised crime, in alignment with the EU’s wider goals under the GIFP programme.
