A proposed bill in Iraq’s parliament to reduce the legal age of marriage for girls to just 9 years old has ignited widespread outrage and concern. Introduced by the Iraq Justice Ministry, the bill seeks to amend the country’s Personal Status Law, which currently sets the minimum age for marriage at 18.
The contentious legislation aims to provide citizens with the choice to settle family matters through either religious authorities or the civil judiciary. Critics argue that this shift could lead to diminished rights in areas such as inheritance, divorce, and child custody.
Under the proposed bill, girls as young as 9 and boys as young as 15 could legally marry, raising fears of increased child marriage and exploitation. Opponents contend that this retrogressive measure threatens decades of progress towards women’s rights and gender equality.
Human rights organizations, women’s groups, and civil society activists have voiced vehement opposition to the bill. They warn of dire consequences for young girls’ education, health, and overall well-being. According to UNICEF, 28 percent of girls in Iraq are already married before the age of 18. Critics argue that child marriage exacerbates dropout rates, early pregnancies, and domestic violence.
“Passing this law would signal a move backward for the country,” stated Sarah Sanbar, a researcher with Human Rights Watch. Amal Kabashi of the Iraq Women’s Network echoed similar concerns, describing the amendment as a step towards increased male dominance in family matters within an already conservative society.
The bill was initially withdrawn in late July following objections from many lawmakers. However, it resurfaced in an August 4 session after receiving backing from influential Shia blocs that dominate the Iraqi parliament. The proposed legislation represents a significant shift from the 1959 Personal Status Law, which had transferred family law authority from religious figures to the state judiciary. The new bill, however, would reintroduce the option to apply religious rules, particularly from Shia and Sunni Islam, without addressing the diverse sectarian landscape of Iraq’s population.
Proponents argue that the bill aims to standardize Islamic law and protect young girls from “immoral relationships.” However, opponents assert that this justification is flawed and overlooks the harsh realities of child marriage. By delegating marital authority to religious leaders, the amendment could potentially legalize marriages of girls as young as nine, thus compromising their futures and well-being.
“Girls belong on the playground and in school, not in a wedding dress,” said Sarah Sanbar of HRW. The bill’s progression through the parliament will continue to be closely monitored by human rights advocates and international observers.
Sources By Agencies
