Iraq’s Controversial Marriage Bill Sparks Outrage

A new law proposal in Iraq is stirring up a storm, as it seeks to allow girls as young as nine to get married. This has sparked outrage among women’s rights activists who argue it will essentially legalize child marriage and even child rape.

The proposal comes from Shia religious groups that have been pushing for reduced women’s rights in Iraq for quite some time. Currently, the country does not require women to have a male guardian’s permission for major life decisions, including marriage. However, if this new law is passed, religious authorities could take control over family matters like marriage and divorce.

Raya Faiq, a coordinator for a coalition opposing the law, expressed deep concern, saying, “This law legalizes child rape.” She fears that if her daughter were to be married off at a young age, her granddaughter could also face the same fate, and she would have no right to object.

Protests against the bill have been taking place in Baghdad and other cities, where supporters of the legislation clashed with opponents. Those in favor accused activists of moral decay and following Western agendas. The existing law forbids marriage before the age of 18, but statistics show that 28% of girls in Iraq are already married by that age.

Since 2021, Iraq’s political scene has been largely shaped by the Coordination Framework, a coalition of factions aligned with Iran. This group has pushed through several conservative laws, which advocates for women’s rights see as a direct threat to their progress.

Female parliament members have been actively trying to stop the draft law from proceeding, but face significant opposition from their male colleagues. Alia Nassif, an Iraqi MP, voiced her frustrations about the narrow-minded attitudes of those supporting the legislation.

Many protesters fear for their children’s future. Azhar Jassim, who was married off at 16, expressed her desire for her daughter to have a choice about her future without the looming possibility of forced marriage.

The bill’s passing would not only change the legal age for marriage but could deeply impact women’s rights regarding inheritance, divorce, and child custody. Critics argue that child marriage often leads to the end of formal education and an increased risk of domestic violence against young girls.

Proponents of the law believe it will better align marriage practices with Islamic guidelines. However, many see it as a step back for women’s rights and a restriction on equality in Iraq.