In a controversial move, the Iraqi parliament has passed a new law allowing children as young as nine to marry, sparking outrage and concerns over women's and children's rights in the country. The legislation, which abolishes a longstanding ban on child marriage under 18, has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including activists, women's rights groups, and some members of parliament. The law grants religious authorities unprecedented power over family affairs, including marriage, divorce, and child custody, which many fear will lead to increased incidences of child marriage.
A 2023 UN survey revealed that 28% of girls in Iraq were married before they turned 18. The new law sets the minimum marriage age for Shia Muslims, who form the majority in Iraq, at nine years old, while for Sunni Muslims, it is 15 years. This reversal of a policy in place since the 1950s has been described by activists as a move to "legalise child rape," highlighting the potential for abuse and exploitation of young girls.
“We have reached the end of women’s rights and the end of children’s rights in Iraq.” – Mohammed Juma
The law was passed despite not having the required number of MPs present, raising questions about the legislative process's integrity. Many within the parliament and women's rights groups expressed horror at the law's passage. The law's opponents are preparing to challenge it in the Iraqi federal court, seeking its repeal and highlighting its potential impact on women's and children's futures.
“The fact that clerics have the upper hand in deciding the fate of women is terrifying. I fear everything that will come in my life as a woman.” – Saja Hashim
Prominent figures like lawyer Mohammed Juma and journalist Saja Hashim have voiced strong opposition to the law. They argue that it marks a significant regression in Iraq's human rights record. Additionally, the law's opponents worry about its broader implications for societal norms and values in Iraq.
“The Iraqi state has never witnessed a decline and profanity that harmed Iraq’s wealth and reputation as we are witnessing today.” – Sajjad Salem
Activist Benin Elias expressed disappointment but called for resilience against what he termed "barbaric decisions." Another activist, Raya Faiq, shared a harrowing account of a woman fearing for her daughter's future following the law's passage.
“We received an audio recording of a woman crying her eyes out because of the passage of this law, with her husband threatening to take her daughter away unless she gives up her rights to financial support.” – Raya Faiq