Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue in Iraq, rooted in cultural, social, and economic factors. Supporting someone who is dealing with GBV requires sensitivity, understanding of the cultural context, and knowledge of appropriate resources. Below is a guide to help you provide effective support, whether it’s a friend, family, or someone else.
1. Understand the Context and Cultural Sensitivities
It’s important to understand the cultural context and how it relates to women in Iraq. Understading this context will enable you to more effectively assist someone dealing with GBV:
- Patriarchal Society: Iraq is a patriarchal society where traditional gender roles are deeply ingrained. Women’s actions and autonomy are often tightly controlled by male family members. Patriarchal attitudes and mindsets can be difficult to overcome, and affect the way in which someone may think and respond to a situation.
- Honor and Shame: Concepts of honor and shame are significant. GBV, especially sexual violence, is often seen as bringing shame not just to the victim but to her family.
- Stigma: Survivors of GBV may face intense stigma, victim-blaming, or even honor-based violence from their families or communities.
- Legal Framework: While there are laws against GBV in Iraq, enforcement is inconsistent, and survivors may be reluctant to seek legal help due to fear of further victimization or lack of trust in the system.
- Clan and Tribal Systems: In Iraq, the clan-based (tribal) system plays a significant role in social and family life, deeply influencing how gender-based violence (GBV) is perceived and addressed. This system can make it more challenging for survivors to seek help and for others to support them effectively. Loyalty to the clan often supersedes individual rights, and maintaining the clan’s honor is a central concern. This should not stop someone from seeking help, but it is something to be mindful of.
- Collective Identity: In many cases, the individual’s identity is closely tied to the clan, and actions that are seen as bringing shame to the clan can have severe consequences for the individual and their family.
2. Approach with Empathy and Confidentiality
- Non-Judgmental Listening: Allow the person to share their story at their own pace. Avoid judgment or pressing for details.
- Validate Their Feelings: Acknowledge their pain and fear. Let them know that what happened is not their fault. It is extremely important not to blame the victim of GBV. Victim blaming, unfortunately, is a pervasive problem within Iraq that only harms those who experience GBV. The victim is never to blame for violence that occurs to them, and is always the fault of the perpetrator.
- Ensure Confidentiality: Assure them that anything they share will remain confidential, unless they give explicit permission to disclose it.
3. Safety Planning
- Assess Immediate Danger: Determine if the person is in immediate danger. If they are, and if it is safe for you to do so, help them create a plan to reach a safe location, whether that’s a trusted friend’s house, a shelter, or a discreet, safe place. Please consider the context of this situation, including whether this could create further levels of danger when considering the dynamics of the clan based systems in Iraq.
- Develop a Safety Plan: If immediate danger is not present, help them think through a plan that includes safe places to go, important phone numbers to memorize, and what to do in an emergency.
4. Provide Emotional Support
- Be Present: Sometimes just being there is the most significant support you can offer. Your presence can be a source of strength.
- Encourage Self-Care: Remind them to take care of their basic needs, like eating, sleeping, and resting. Offer to help with tasks that might feel overwhelming.
5. Offer Practical Support
- Access to Resources: Help them identify and access resources such as medical care, legal advice, or assistance with regional NGOs. Be prepared to assist with finding these services, as they may not know where to start.
- Navigating Social Services: Offer to accompany them to legal consultations if they wish. This can be particularly helpful in a system that may feel overwhelming or untrustworthy.
6. Respect Their Choices
- Empowerment: Respect their decisions, whether they choose to leave an abusive situation or stay. It’s important they feel in control of their choices.
- Avoid Pressure: Do not pressure them to take actions they are not ready for, like going to the police or leaving their home. The decision must be theirs.
7. Know the Local Resources
- Hotlines and Shelters: Be aware of local GBV hotlines, women’s shelters, and NGOs that specialize in GBV support. In Iraq, organizations like the Iraqi Women Network, Yazda, and Asuda offer various forms of assistance.
- Legal Aid: Some organizations provide free or low-cost legal services to GBV survivors. Knowing these resources can be critical if the person decides to seek legal help.
- Medical Services: Identify healthcare providers who are sensitive to GBV issues. In some cases, medical attention may be required immediately.
8. Consider Psychological and Social Support
- Cultural Stigma: Understand that seeking mental health support may be stigmatized. Offer to find culturally sensitive counselors or community leaders who can provide psychological support.
- Community Support: Sometimes religious or community leaders can play a positive role. If the survivor is comfortable, they might seek support from these figures.
9. Advocate for Their Rights
- Human Rights Awareness: Educate them about their rights under Iraqi law, as well as international human rights standards.
- Advocacy: If safe and appropriate, you can help them advocate for their rights within the legal system, ensuring they are treated fairly and with dignity.
10. Maintain Your Own Boundaries and Seek Support
- Know Your Limits: Supporting someone through GBV can be emotionally taxing. It’s important to know your limits and seek support for yourself if needed.
- Network with Others: If possible, connect with other supporters or organizations working in GBV to share knowledge and resources.
Conclusion
Supporting someone experiencing gender-based violence in Iraq requires a culturally sensitive, patient, and informed approach. By prioritizing their safety, respecting their choices, and providing both emotional and practical support, you can play a crucial role in their journey toward healing and empowerment.