Iraq Girls Marriage Law: Iraq’s parliament on Tuesday (January 21) approved three controversial laws, one of which is a law that gives clerics the right to decide the marriage age of girls. This move has created deep concern among women’s rights organizations and human rights activists. Let us understand the impact of these laws and the logic behind them in detail.
According to Iraqi law of 1959, the minimum age for marriage of girls was 18 years. But under the new law, clerics have been given the right to interpret Islamic law, which can open the possibility of marriage for 9-year-old girls. The change follows Ja’fari’s Islamic ideology, which is followed by many Shia religious leaders in Iraq.
Shia leaders’ side
Pro-Shia leaders say that these amendments have been made in accordance with Islamic principles. They argue that this law is to stop the cultural influences of Western civilization and will protect Islamic values.
Crisis on women’s rights
Human rights organizations and women’s organizations have strongly criticized this law. They say that this law can threaten the freedom and security of women. Organizations fear that women may be imprisoned at home and their rights may be violated.
Other controversial laws: Release of corrupt people and land dispute
Iraq’s parliament also passed a general amnesty law, paving the way for the release of Sunni prisoners jailed for corruption and embezzlement. In addition, a land law has also been passed, the purpose of which is to claim Kurdish areas.
Controversy over the process of passing laws
The process of passing these laws was also controversial. Independent MP Noor Nafi Ali said that these laws have been passed without proper voting. He called it a mockery of democracy.
Social and political future in Iraq
These controversial laws have intensified social and political debate in Iraq. While some people are seeing it as a restoration of Islamic values, many others are considering it as a serious threat to women’s rights and freedom. In the times to come, the impact of these laws could have a profound impact on the social structure of Iraq.
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