1. Legal and Human Rights Framework for Protecting Women The protection of women is based on international references such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), as well as national laws that criminalize domestic violence, harassment, and rape. However, the greatest challenge remains proving the crime. Here, forensic investigation plays a crucial role in providing the evidence that safeguards women’s rights from being lost due to lack of proof or witness intimidation. 2. The Role of Forensic Evidence in Cases of Violence Against Women Forensic laboratories and forensic medicine play a central role in several areas: Proving Physical and Sexual Assault: Forensic medical examinations help document injuries and collect biological samples (such as DNA). DNA evidence represents the strongest means to link the accused to the crime conclusively. Combating Cybercrimes: In cases of online blackmail or harassment, digital forensics can recover deleted messages and trace digital addresses (IP addresses) to identify perpetrators hiding behind screens. Determining the Time and Method of Assault: Forensic sciences help estimate the time of the incident and the type of instrument used, which exposes false counterclaims and corroborates the victim’s account. 3. The Importance of the "Chain of Custody" For forensic evidence to effectively protect women’s rights, its integrity must be maintained from the moment it is collected at the crime scene until it reaches the court. Any mishandling of evidence may result in its exclusion, which underscores the need for female specialists in community policing and forensic medicine to ensure victims’ comfort and accurate evidence collection. 4. Challenges and Solutions Despite technological advances, the criminal justice system faces several obstacles: Delayed reporting: which may lead to the deterioration of biological evidence. Social stigma: which may prevent women from undergoing forensic examination. Proposed solutions include: Developing fully equipped, confidential forensic units within hospitals. Using advanced techniques, such as spectral imaging, to detect bruises not visible to the naked eye. Raising legal awareness about the importance of preserving the crime scene and not destroying clothing or evidence before specialists arrive. Conclusion Forensic evidence is the voice that never lies in courtrooms. Strengthening the forensic system with modern technologies and training personnel to handle women’s cases sensitively is not merely a technical procedure—it is a moral and legal necessity. This ensures that perpetrators do not evade justice and reinforces the principle of the rule of law, which protects everyone. Al-Mustaqbal University, the first university in Iraq
  SDG5