Breaking Barriers in the Middle East: A Pioneering Woman in the CBRN Sector

The upcoming EU CBRN CoE Newsletter will put the spotlight on Women in CBRN. Meet some of the inspiring professionals contributing to CBRN risk mitigation across the CoE network ahead of the release.

Throughout the past decades, gender-based stereotypes have persisted worldwide, posing numerous challenges to women’s career prospects and access to various professional fields. These stereotypes often assign specific roles and characteristics based on gender, limiting opportunities for women. In the Middle East, traditional norms further exacerbate these limitations, restricting women's participation in many sectors. The Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) security field is one such area, traditionally dominated by men and associated with masculinity. This has led to limited opportunities for women to join and demonstrate their capabilities as safety and security analysts, researchers, and field officers, especially within the region.

Despite all the challenges, Safa Kubba is one of the promising examples in the Middle East region who broke barriers and succeeded in joining the CBRN field, demonstrating high performance and determination to reach a leadership level, all while balancing her responsibilities as a wife and mother of one son. She holds a master’s degree in chemical engineering from Al-Nahrain University, Iraq. Safa  is responsible for the coordination council for all matters relevant to the EU CBRN CoE. Additionally, she oversees all chemical aspects at the Iraqi National Monitoring Authority (INMA) and coordinates the implementation of EU CBRN CoE projects in Iraq.

How did you begin working in the CBRN field, and what motivated you to pursue this path?

My journey in the CBRN field began after I was nominated to represent the chemical aspect within the CBRN unit, as I had been working in the Chemical Department since 2012. I was driven by a passion for utilizing my skills and knowledge to serve my country and enhance safety and security. Additionally, I was motivated by my interest in participating in workshops and events that promote the development of women in the fields of safety and security.

"I was driven [to start a career in CBRN] by a passion for utilizing my skills and knowledge to serve my country and enhance safety and security."

Could you describe your current role and responsibilities within the Iraqi National Team for the EU CBRN CoE?

As the responsible for the Coordination Council at the Iraqi Nuclear, Radiological, Chemical and Biological Commission (INRC), I organize and coordinate meetings with council members from various ministries to facilitate CBRN-related activities. Additionally, I manage and follow up on projects with the European Union. Along with my colleagues in the Iraqi National Team, I am involved in drafting the CBRN National Action Plan and participating in meetings and workshops dedicated to developing the Middle East Regional Action Plan. 

What are the key projects/initiative or activities you have been involved in recently?

One of the most notable activities I have recently participated in, it is drafting the National Action Plan, and attending the workshop dedicated to developing the regional action plan in the field of CBRN. I have also been assigned to coordinate several projects and follow up on their implementation with representatives of the European Union within the EU CBRN CoE initiative, the main one being Project 97- Improvement of Chemical Safety and Security in the Middle East. In addition, I have been assigned to hold meetings and contribute to committees and events aimed at enhancing cooperation between various ministries and institutions in the field of CBRN risk mitigation.

In terms of opportunities and challenges, how would you summarize your professional journey as a Middle Eastern woman working in the CBRN field?

As a woman from the Middle East working in the CBRN field, my career journey has been full of opportunities and challenges. I have faced difficulties in a male-dominated environment, but our organization's commitment to gender equality and equal opportunities, along with the support of my colleagues and my self-confidence, has enabled me to overcome these challenges and achieve success in my duties. In addition, I am working in the CBRN unit, where most members are female. They receive full support due to their competence and professionalism in managing and fulfilling assigned tasks.

I had the opportunity to participate in several activities related to the tasks of the new authority and the inclusion of CBRN responsibilities within the proposed structures of the new authority under Law No. 1 of 2024 (National Authority for Nuclear, Radiological, Chemical, and Biological). To summarize, women play a vital role in the CBRN risk mitigation, and specifically in Iraq, where they are encouraged to participate in various activities and programs that aim to build capacity, exchange best practices, and enable them to achieve leadership positions and contribute effectively to the safety and security of handling and managing CBRN materials. 

Can you share a particularly challenging situation you encountered and how you overcame it?

The most challenging situation I faced was when the Head of INMA, Mohsen Oleiwi AbdulKadhim, assigned me the responsibility of coordinating projects with the European Union and relevant stakeholders. The responsibility was great and the tasks were huge, but thanks to his support and belief in my abilities, I was able to organize the work effectively and complete the tasks successfully.

How do you evaluate your experience as a female with management/leadership tasks working in a male dominated national team?

My experience as a woman assigned management and coordinating duties within a national team with a predominantly male population was rich and fruitful; however, it was full of challenges. I was able to overcome these challenges by building strong working relationships and employing my problem-solving and effective communication skills.

How do you perceive the evolving role of women in the CBRN field, both in Iraq and the Middle East region in general?

The role of women in the CBRN field is growing significantly in Iraq and the Middle East region in general. There is increasing awareness of the importance of women’s participation in this field, and I believe that more women will find opportunities to achieve success and contribute effectively in the future. 

"The role of women in the CBRN field is growing significantly in Iraq and the Middle East region in general. There is increasing awareness of the importance of women’s participation in this field."

What measures do you think are necessary to encourage and empower more women to enter and thrive in this sector?

I believe that capacity building is an extremely effective tool. Offering proper training and support to women, along with raising awareness of the importance of their role in this field, are essential measures. Continuous encouragement and providing equal opportunities for both women and men to pursue their careers and hold decision-making roles within the CBRN field can help empower more women 

What are the advices or tips you would give to young women interested in pursuing a career in CBRN in Iraq or the Middle East region? 

It all starts with the individual woman. Breaking barriers to access the CBRN field must evolve from a woman's genuine confidence that “she can.” Many women in Iraq and the region possess the necessary competence to pursue their career goals; however, without addressing psychological barriers, including fear and self-doubt, other policies will not achieve their intended objectives. I would advise young women interested in the CBRN field to be courageous and confident, and to take advantage of every opportunity to learn and develop their skills. Seeking out mentors and guides can also be very helpful in providing support and advice. 

"Breaking barriers to access the CBRN field must evolve from a woman's genuine confidence that “she can.”"

Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the future of CBRN management, safety and security in Iraq and the Middle East?

I look forward to seeing more progress and coordination in the field of CBRN management in Iraq and the Middle East, along with strengthened safety and security procedures and measures to assure public and environment protection. The developed and implemented EU CBRN CoE projects could enhance national and regional capabilities and hence will facilitate regional cooperation. I also aspire to see more women actively participating in this field.

What motivates you to continue working in this field, despite the challenges?

My passion for the CBRN field and my desire to contribute to enhancing safety and security measures in my country are the main reasons that motivate me to continue working in this challenging field. Challenges make me more determined and insistent on achieving my goals and performing the best 

Is there anything else you would like to share about your journey, your work, or your vision for the future?

I would like to share a message of hope and inspiration with all ambitious women: you can achieve success in any field you choose. My vision for the future includes a safer and more equitable society, where women play a fundamental role in achieving this goal.