As part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen its academic presence and engage with specialized scientific events, the Center for Women’s Studies participated in the Sixth Iraqi International Forum for Creativity and Innovation, held from April 16–17, 2025. The forum was graciously sponsored by the Prime Minister and organized in collaboration with the University of Babylon, Al-Hillah University, Al-Mashriq University, and Al-Kut University.
The event witnessed a wide attendance of local and international researchers and inventors and was inaugurated in the presence of Professor Dr. Lubna Khamis Mahdi, representing the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The forum featured the discussion of 259 scientific papers and included a range of unique activities and events, such as 111 book signings, 109 patents, and 52 artistic works, along with an outstanding exhibition of scientific and cultural books and publications.
During the forum, Assistant Professor Dr. Saba Hussein Mullah, Head of the Department of Policies and Legislation at the Center, presented a research paper entitled “The Role of Social Media in Raising Awareness of Women’s Issues”. Her presentation highlighted the growing role of digital platforms in shaping women’s awareness and enhancing their societal participation, considering them powerful tools for expression, influence, and empowerment at various levels.
Key recommendations from the conference included:
1. Promoting a balance between digital and real-life experiences to mitigate the negative impact on social and family relationships.
2. Raising awareness about digital risks such as cyberbullying and electronic blackmail, while encouraging women to adopt preventive measures.
3. Utilizing social media as platforms for awareness and empowerment to disseminate legal and cultural knowledge and reinforce the status of women.
The Center’s participation in this forum aligns with its vision of supporting specialized scientific research on women’s issues and contributes to the implementation of the National Action Plan for Women, Peace, and Security 2025, particularly within the framework of the fifth item of the “Protection and Prevention” pillar, which emphasizes the importance of awareness-raising and capacity-building in the field of digital and social empowerment.