Written question asked by Lord Judd (Labour), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Malloch-Brown (Labour) on Monday, 10 March 2008.

Iraq: Rape

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:What is their estimate of the level of rape suffered by the women of Iraq; and how this compares with the position five years ago.

Answer: Under Saddam Hussein, torture and abuse, including the systematic use of rape, were used as instruments of state repression and there was no culture of respect for human rights in Iraq. Following the removal of Saddam Hussein and the creation of a democratically elected government, work continues for the creation of a society based on respect for human rights. We have no evidence to support a belief that violence overall has increased towards women in Iraq. The Government condemn all intimidation of and violence against women and are committed to supporting the development of women's rights in Iraq. Although the Iraqi constitution includes many provisions to protect women's rights, the challenge remains for the Government of Iraq to turn these into real improvements in women's lives.

Secondary information