The Political Role of Koya Women in 1958-1991

Abstract

Throughout history, women had crucial role in all aspects of community, this is also true for Kurdish women and women from Koya. In political arena, Women, alongside men, struggled towards the national causes. They endured many sacrifices. However, due to patriarchy system of Kurdish society, women were not offered similar opportunities as men, therefore, their chances for success was limited and they indirectly prevented form proving their themselves. Despite that, women from Koya somehow overcame the obstacles and participated and contributed to the society actively. It is undeniable the public policy of subsequent ruling governments in Iraq did not pave the way from the active participation of women and neither provided equal opportunities for men and women. For instance, in 1963, when Ba’th regime took control of Iraq in a coup, they attacked Kurdistan region and Koya. They practiced the almost brutality against people, among the early victims were women. As the reaction, and reaction to other barbaric practices of Ba’th regime, Women from Koya participated in armed conflicts in Kurdish liberation movements. The current research consists of two parts; in introduction, a brief historical survey about the participation and contribution of women from Koya pre1958 revolution is provided. The first part is dedicated to the contribution and activities of women between 19581975. The second part is dedicated to discussing the role of women in political activism and secret organization.