Iraq considers lowering the legal age of consent from 18 to nine, sparking widespread protests and concerns over women’s rights.
At a Glance
- Iraq’s parliament proposes reducing the legal age of consent to nine years old.
- The amendment would strip women of rights to divorce, child custody, and inheritance.
- Conservative Shia Muslim parties are pushing for the change.
- Protests erupt as critics argue the law would legalize child marriage.
- Concerns grow over potential regression in women’s rights and social progress.
Controversial Amendment Proposed in Iraq
A coalition of conservative Shia Muslim parties in Iraq’s parliament has proposed a controversial amendment to the country’s personal status law. The amendment seeks to lower the legal age of consent from 18 to nine years old, effectively allowing child marriages. This proposal has ignited fierce opposition from women’s rights advocates and several female Iraqi lawmakers.
The current personal status law, known as Law 188, was introduced in 1959 and is considered progressive, governing family affairs across religious sects. The proposed changes would not only lower the age of consent but also strip women of critical rights regarding marriage termination, custody of children, and inheritance.
Could someone with insights on Iraqi politics and society in 2024 put this into context? https://t.co/Lxd9BNi2wW
— GabrielSaidR (@GabrielSaidR) November 10, 2024
Implications and Concerns
Experts and activists warn that the amendment would have far-reaching consequences for women and girls in Iraq. Sarah Sanbar, a prominent voice on the issue, stated, “The amendment would not just undermine these rights. It would erase them.”
Critics argue that the proposed changes could increase risks of sexual and physical violence against young girls and limit their access to education and employment. There are also concerns that Iraq’s governance could shift towards a system prioritizing religious rule over state law, potentially deepening sectarian divides.
Existing Challenges and Potential Impact
Iraq already faces significant challenges regarding child marriage. According to a 2023 UN survey, 28% of Iraqi girls are married before the age of 18, despite a 1950s ban on child marriages. The proposed amendment could exacerbate this issue and further erode women’s rights in the country.
“This is a catastrophe for women. This law legalizes child rape,” said Raya Faiq.
The proposal has sparked widespread protests and social media outcry, with activists accusing the government of attempting to legalize sexual violence against children. Protests are ongoing in Tahrir Square, Baghdad, as citizens express their opposition to the proposed changes.
International Reaction and Historical Context
The proposed amendment has drawn criticism both domestically and internationally. Human Rights Watch has warned that these changes could deepen social divides and leave women vulnerable to abuse. The situation is particularly concerning given Iraq’s recent history, including the sectarian conflict following the 2003 US invasion that led to a Shia Muslim majority government.
As the debate continues, the world watches closely to see how Iraq will navigate this critical juncture in its approach to women’s rights and child protection. The outcome of this proposed amendment could have lasting implications for the country’s social fabric and its standing in the international community.
