Baghdad: The head of the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC), Faiq Zidan, confirmed on Saturday that the judiciary continues to take measures to empower women and reduce domestic violence.

According to Iraqi News Agency, Zidan said during his speech at the 18th Islamic Day conference to combat violence against women, 'Participating in the 18th Islamic Day Conference to combat violence against women represents an affirmation of the consolidation of the values of justice and the guarantee of human dignity, and a renewal of the commitment to protecting women and preserving their rights, based on the principles of the Islamic religion, human values, and the provisions of the constitution and laws.'

He explained that 'violence against women in all its forms is a flagrant violation of human dignity and the rule of law, and threatens family security and societal stability,' noting that 'the Supreme Judicial Council has taken practical steps to enhance legal protection for women, including the establishment of courts specializing in domestic violence cases, and directing the acceleration of investigation and trial procedures to prevent prolonging the suffering of victims and to achieve legal deterrence.'

Zidan added that "the council is working in coordination with the Public Prosecution, the Family and Child Protection Foundation and the Community Police to ensure the execution of arrest warrants, the completion of investigations and the provision of necessary protection for the victims during the course of the proceedings."

He explained that "the Supreme Judicial Council continues to take measures aimed at empowering women and enhancing their capabilities in various fields, considering them an essential partner in building the nation and achieving development," noting "the establishment of the Arab Women Judges Network during a meeting held in Baghdad with the participation of female judges from a number of Arab countries, with the aim of enhancing the presence of women in the judiciary and consolidating cooperation and exchange of experiences."

Judge Zidan affirmed that 'choosing Baghdad as the permanent headquarters for this network reflects Iraq's position in supporting Arab judicial work, and enhances the pioneering role of Iraqi and Arab women in consolidating the principles of justice and the rule of law.'

He emphasized that "ending violence against women is a shared national, moral, and humanitarian responsibility that requires concerted efforts from authorities, religious, educational, and media institutions, civil society organizations, and families to build a society where women and girls enjoy security and dignity, free from fear, violence, and discrimination."

He reiterated the commitment to "continue taking deterrent measures to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls, empower women to actively contribute to society, and ensure a future where justice, equality, and equal opportunities become a tangible reality for all."