The Avicenna Center for E-Learning, following the directives of the Women’s Affairs Department at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, organized a workshop titled “Combating Violence Against Women” on Thursday, July 11, 2024. The workshop was presented by Assistant Instructor Maryam Ali Matloub and Assistant Instructor Hajar Basim Muhammad Ali.
Assistant Instructor Hajar Basim discussed the role of women in ancient times, and the laws and legislation that aimed to protect their rights. She provided an introduction to prominent ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, one of the earliest civilizations to establish a written legal system. The laws of Hammurabi, for example, included provisions for women’s rights in marriage and divorce, with specific conditions to organize marriage and protect the rights of the wife. The laws also included special provisions to protect pregnant women and ensure their rights and those of their children.
Assistant Instructor Maryam Ali Matloub highlighted the contributions of the Arab Women Organization in combating violence against women. She listed the organization’s goals, which include integrating the issue of violence against women into national legislation, plans, and policies, and promoting a woman-friendly culture by uprooting the cultural practices of violence.
Ms. Maryam noted that several Arab countries have enacted laws to protect women from violence, such as the United Arab Emirates in 2019, Bahrain in 2015, and Tunisia in 2017.
This workshop is part of a series of activities organized by the Avicenna Center for E-Learning to raise community awareness about women’s rights and combating violence against them. The workshop emphasizes the importance of laws and legislation in protecting women and ensuring their rights and highlights the ongoing efforts of Arab women’s organizations in this field. The hope remains that such initiatives will contribute to tangible positive change and promote a culture of respect for women’s rights and equality in our societies.
