Sarah Jassim posted videos of sexual harassment on Instagram to document evidence, leading to the arrest of a policeman accused of harassing schoolgirls. "Your camera is your weapon," Jassim stated regarding her use of social media to record the abuse.
Jassim reported receiving death threats and warnings of acid attacks following her actions. The Iraqi penal code currently lacks specific terms to criminalise gender-based violence or harassment.
In May 2026, a UN committee on discrimination against women issued a report urging authorities to repeal laws that exonerate rapists who marry their victims. Yanar Mohammed was murdered outside her house in Baghdad in March 2026 after receiving death threats and online abuse attributed to an extremist religious militia.
"There are no laws, no protection, and no justice for women in Iraq," said Hanaa Edwar. Mustafa Saadoon noted that a woman reporting sexual violence must navigate family, police, and court systems where officials often suggest settling the matter quietly.
Muqdad Miri stated that while harassment by police personnel is rare, those caught face up to 10 years in prison and dismissal. Police have recorded approximately 300 reports of sexual violence since the start of 2026.
"Your camera is your weapon."
Sarah Jassim
