In most countries, the legal age for marriage for girls is around 18 years. This has also been the case in Iraq until now.
However, a new bill introduced by the Iraqi government in parliament has surprised many. The bill proposes to reduce the legal marriage age for girls to 9 years, which has caused widespread concern.
The bill was introduced by the Iraqi Ministry of Justice with the intent to amend the Personal Status Law. If this bill is passed in parliament, there is a fear that child marriages will drastically increase.
According to the bill, girls would be eligible for marriage at 9 years old, and boys at 15 years old, without any legal obstacles.
Experts are concerned that this bill would reverse the progress made so far in terms of gender equality and women’s rights.
Human rights organizations and women’s groups are strongly opposing the bill. They argue that it would hinder girls’ education and negatively impact their health.
Concerns have been raised about early pregnancies, an increase in domestic violence, and the interruption of education.
Although Iraq has attempted similar measures in the past, they were withdrawn due to opposition from lawmakers. However, there is now anxiety about what will happen this time.