Iraq Parliament's Laws Empower Sharia Courts, Legalize Child Marriage

Iraq's parliament has passed three controversial laws, most notably amendments to the Personal Status Law, which critics argue could legalize child marriage by allowing Islamic clerics to decide on family matters. The amendments could permit marriages for girls as young as nine under certain interpretations of Islamic law, a significant shift from the current minimum marriage age of 18. Activists warn that these changes undermine the protections established by the 1959 Personal Status Law and could rollback women's rights related to divorce and inheritance. The legislative session faced accusations of procedural chaos and irregularities, with some lawmakers claiming the voting process was manipulated. Proponents argue the amendments aim to align Iraqi law more closely with Islamic principles while resisting Western influence. The parliament also passed a general amnesty law that has raised concerns about its implications for corruption and justice in the country.