Breaking Barriers: Nuxsha Nasih Inspiring Women Across Iraq
Kawthar al-Dulaimi, a civil society activist in Anbar, said the region lacks such leadership models and voiced hope that women will be given more space to work and innovate: “Sadly, we lack such leadership models, and we hope women will be granted more space to work and innovate.”
By Kamaran Aziz
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — In a landmark moment for women’s political leadership in Iraq, Nuxsha Nasih has officially assumed office as Acting Governor of Halabja—marking what could be considered a first-of-its-kind appointment at the governorate level in Iraq. However, in the Kurdistan Region, women have long held prominent executive and leadership roles, including serving as Speaker of the Kurdistan Parliament and holding key ministerial portfolios.
Her appointment has been hailed by women’s rights advocates and civil society organizations as a historic and transformative step toward gender inclusion in Iraqi governance.
Nasih’s elevation to the governorship of Halabja adds further significance to this moment. Women from across Iraq, particularly in the more conservative Anbar province, have lauded her appointment as a breakthrough for gender equality in political representation.
Kawthar al-Dulaimi, a civil society activist in Anbar, expressed her admiration in an interview with Kurdistan24: “It is inspiring to see a woman in Iraq take on the role of governor. We are proud of Ms. Nuxsha Nasih’s appointment in Halabja and hope to see similar representation of women in Anbar. Sadly, we lack such leadership models, and we hope women will be granted more space to work and innovate.”
Academic Lama al-Jumaili described the development as a “sweet step,” praising Nasih’s appointment as a deserved achievement that showcases women's leadership capabilities. “Women have demonstrated their ability to bear leadership responsibilities and serve society effectively,” she said.
Social activist Azhar Mohammed noted the broader implications of the event: “As women, whether in Anbar or across Iraq, we support such initiatives. Women holding senior positions helps promote balance and empowers women in all sectors.”
Milad al-Dulaimi, a working professional in Anbar, emphasized the principle of fairness in leadership distribution. “What happened in Kurdistan reflects an awareness of the importance of equity, and we hope to see this model applied in Anbar as well,” she remarked.
Nasih’s leadership comes at a particularly momentous time for Halabja. Last Monday, the Iraqi Parliament voted overwhelmingly to grant Halabja official provincial status—a demand long pursued by its citizens and leaders. Speaking at a press conference after the vote, Nasih described the event as a “historic day for the people of Halabja,” attributing the success to the political unity among Kurdish parties and widespread support across Iraq’s political spectrum.
“We thank all those who played a role in this achievement,” Nasih said. “The unified position of the political parties was the reason Halabja received provincial status.” She also emphasized the importance of continued unity in achieving broader Kurdish national goals. “We hope that the political parties will take a unified position to achieve all the rights of the Kurdish people,” she added.
The bill’s passage marked the culmination of years of political effort, with key Kurdish and Iraqi parliamentary figures working to overcome repeated delays and procedural hurdles. The newly established Halabja Province comprises the central district of Halabja and surrounding towns including Khurmal, Byara, Sirwan, and Bamo.
Known globally as the site of the 1988 chemical massacre that killed approximately 5,000 civilians, Halabja has come to symbolize Kurdish suffering and resilience. The provincial recognition is not only a legal milestone but a deeply emotional triumph for a city that has borne the scars of war and genocide.
As Iraq continues its post-conflict recovery and governance reform, the story of Halabja—and its new governor—may serve as a guiding example. Nasih’s appointment and the city’s provincial recognition together signal a transformative shift, not just for the people of Halabja, but for the political trajectory of Iraq’s women and its marginalized regions. The celebrations unfolding across Halabja today are not only for a city’s long-awaited justice, but for the promise of a more inclusive and equitable Iraq.
