28/07/2025
POLICY BRIEF: WOMEN’S ECONOMIC SITUATION IN THE KURDISTAN REGION OF IRAQ by PAYRAW ANWAR
Since 2003, Iraq and the Kurdistan Region underwent significant political and economic changes, including the adoption of a free-market economy and gradual social and cultural transformations. However, shifts have not translated into meaningful improvements in women’s economic participation.
Over the past ten years, women have played an active social and economic role within the Kurdistan Regional Government's economic system. This system is based on neoliberal principles, emphasizing a free market and a semi-private sector. However, the increased participation of women does not necessa...