Women Up For Election in Iraq

Of the estimated 14,400 candidates standing for election in Iraq today, close to 4,000 are women.

While some female candidates have had their posters splattered with mud, defaced with beards or torn up, most have been spared the violence inflicted on male candidates. As of January 29, a total of six male candidates had been assassinated.

For many of the female candidates, the elections offer a chance to inject some much needed fresh air into councils that are plagued by deep corruption and dominated by men and big political parties that are often ultraconservative.

By Sam Dagher
New York Times
Photo Credit:
Michael Kamber