Hundreds of Iraqi women took to the streets to mark International Women's Day on Sunday despite the coronavirus outbreak forcing the cancellation of a slew of events across Asia. The outbreak did not stop women and activists from gathering at multiple spots in Baghdad and Nasiriyah.
The march took place despite health and civil bodies urging not to hold various events celebrating Women's Day.
Controversy still exists among the movement’s groups over the continuation of the demonstration, given its potential contribution to the spread of virus infection among the citizens as a result of overcrowding.
On the other hand, activists said that renewed clashes between protesters and security forces resulted in the injury of at least four demonstrators in al-Khilani Square in Baghdad.
“Clashes between the two sides have been going on for weeks and often escalate in the evening hours during which casualties between the two parties fall as a result of the use of hunting weapons and sound and tear grenades,” member of the Iraqi Human Rights Commission Ali Al-Bayati told Asharq Al-Awsat.
As for the Coronavirus disease outbreak, Bayati said: “The health situation in Iraq does not have the necessary strength. Therefore, the spread of the disease will have serious consequences. Fortunately, perhaps the most recorded cases came through citizens returning from Iran.”
Saying that health is a primary right of every citizen, Bayati recommended that activists and demonstrators put off the sit-ins until the Coronavirus crisis is over.
