Iraqi Parliament Sparks Outrage by Legalising Child Marriage from Age Nine
Shocking New Law Hands Religious Leaders Power Over Family Matters
The Iraqi parliament has ignited global fury after passing a law that allows children as young as nine to wed. The controversial legislation grants religious authorities control over family affairs—marriage, divorce, and child custody—effectively scrapping a decades-old ban on child marriage.
Under the new law, Shia Muslims can marry from age nine, while Sunni Muslims are permitted from fifteen. This overturns protections dating back to the 1950s and opens the door to widespread child marriage.
Rights Groups Slam the Law as “Legalising Child Rape”
Women’s rights activists and campaigners have blasted the legislation. Lawyer Mohammed Juma declared, “We have reached the end of women’s rights and the end of children’s rights in Iraq.” Iraqi journalist Saja Hashim called the decision “terrifying” with bleak implications for the future of Iraqi women.
Raya Faiq from feminist group Coalition 188 revealed the law’s brutal impact, sharing a heart-wrenching audio of a woman weeping after her husband threatened to seize their daughter unless she surrendered her financial rights.
Child Marriage Crisis Worsened Amid Fears of Lasting Damage
Child marriage is already a grim reality in Iraq. A 2023 UN survey found 28% of Iraqi girls marry before 18. Campaigners warn this law will deepen the crisis, forcing girls out of school and trapping them in poverty and stigma.
Often touted as escape from hardship, early marriage inflicts lifelong hardships, including lost education and bleak futures.
Fierce Pushback from Iraqi MPs and Global Observers
Some Iraqi politicians question the legality of the vote. MP Alia Nassif claims the session lacked a proper quorum and vows to challenge the law in federal court. Independent MP Sajjad Salem blasted the law as a disgrace that harms Iraq’s reputation.
International rights groups have condemned the law, urging immediate repeal. Women’s advocate Benin Elias urged resistance, saying, “This is not the time for tears nor surrender to barbaric decisions.”
The Iraqi government remains silent amid mounting outrage. But campaigners are steadfast, promising continued legal battles and public protests to overturn the law.
