Iraq's parliament has recently passed controversial amendments to the personal status law, critics claim would effectively legalize child marriage. These amendments increase the authority of Islamic courts over familial matters, aligning legal interpretations with Islamic law, which could permit marriage for girls as young as nine. The changes undermine the protective measures enshrined in Iraq's 1959 Personal Status Law. Activists warn this will adversely impact women's rights, while proponents argue it reduces Western influence. The session ended chaotically, with accusations of procedural violations and insufficient voting, raising concerns about legislative integrity.
The amendments give Islamic courts increased authority over family matters, including marriage, divorce and inheritance, undermining existing protections established by Iraq's 1959 Personal Status Law.
Proponents of the changes defend them as a means to align the law with Islamic principles and reduce western influence on Iraqi culture.
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