London – The Duchess of Edinburgh is visiting Iraq at the request of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, in support of the Women, Peace and Security Agenda (WPS), and to continue Her Royal Highness’s work to champion the survivors of conflict related sexual violence.
The Duchess has spent two days in Baghdad, where Her Royal Highness heard about the challenges facing Iraqi women and girls, and the ongoing work to protect and promote their rights.
The Duchess of Edinburgh visited a high school for girls, and spoke to students and teachers about education for young women in the country, and their hopes for the future. The Duchess also visited a family planning centre where Her Royal Highness saw first-hand the work being carried out to support the reproductive health and wellbeing of Iraqi women, and met women business leaders to discuss the importance of women’s economic empowerment.
While in Baghdad, The Duchess of Edinburgh was received by the President of Iraq, Abdul Latif Rashid and the First Lady, and Her Royal Highness shared a message of greeting from His Majesty The King. The Duchess was also received by Prime Minister Mohammad Shia Al Sudani.
- Published: 24th May 2023
- Source: Buckingham Palace Royal Communications
