Back to medieval times? Iraqi men can marry children as young as 9; government lowers the age of consent for girls

Iraq is set to lower the legal age of consent for girls to just nine years, sparking outrage among rights activists.

The Iraqi parliament, driven by a conservative Shia Muslim coalition, is poised to amend the nation’s personal status law, known as Law 188.

Established in 1959, this law has been seen as a progressive safeguard for families, regardless of religious sect.

If the amendment passes, not only will the marriage age drop, but critical rights like divorce, child custody, and inheritance for women will also be severely restricted.

Impact on Women’s RightsThe proposed changes raise major concerns about women’s legal protections.

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Renad Mansour of Chatham House warns this move is part of a broader political strategy to reinforce religious authority and consolidate power.

Activists fear the amendment will further undermine gender equality and exacerbate sectarian divides.

Women’s rights groups, like Coalition 188, have organized protests to denounce the government’s efforts as an attempt to “legalize child rape.

”Also Read : Democrats pressurising Justice Sonia Sotomayor to step down so that Joe Biden can replace her before his term endsRising Backlash and Sectarian ConcernsThe amendment has sparked significant backlash both domestically and internationally.

Sarah Sanbar from Human Rights Watch highlights that these changes would deepen social divides and leave women vulnerable to abuse.

Critics also point out that the reforms could institutionalize sectarian preferences, eroding the civil status of Iraq.

Prominent voices, including human rights adviser Athraa Al-Hassan, emphasize the dangers of aligning governance with religious rulings.

Many Iraqis worry that this could dismantle decades of social progress and drag the country backward.

Also Read : Dragon Ball Daima: See Episode 6 release date, time, where to watch and plotFAQs:What is the proposed change to Iraq’s personal status law?The Iraqi parliament is considering an amendment to the personal status law that would lower the age of consent for girls to as young as nine and remove women’s rights to divorce, child custody, and inheritance.

This amendment would align with a strict interpretation of Islamic law.

What are the potential consequences for women if the amendment passes?If the amendment passes, women could lose the right to divorce, gain custody of children, or inherit property.

It would also potentially legalize child marriages, putting young girls at greater risk of sexual and physical violence, while restricting their access to education and employment.

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