The Impact of I-NAP

The UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women Peace and Security adopted in October 2000 marked a significant step in recognizing women's rights and their roles in peacebuilding and conflict resolution. In February 2014 the Iraqi government and Kurdistan Regional Government launched a five-year National Action Plan (I-NAP 2014-18) becoming the first Middle Eastern country to adopt such a plan. This research analyzes the participation pillar of the I-NAP 2014-18 evaluating its effectiveness in advancing women's political participation in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. It also examines the challenges and criticisms of adopting and implementing the plan and offers recommendations for future iterations.