Iraq’s parliament has passed a bill lowering the legal marriage age for girls to 9 years, sparking widespread controversy in the country. The news was reported by MSN.
The report states that the current minimum marriage age for girls in Iraq is 18 years. The proposed bill lowers the minimum marriage age for girls to 9 years and for boys to 15 years.
Various human rights organizations have strongly opposed the bill, warning that it could have severe consequences for young girls’ education, health, and well-being. They also believe it could increase the risk of early pregnancy and domestic violence.
Amal Kabashi of the Iraq Women’s Network has strongly condemned the bill, stating that the amendment creates significant opportunities for male dominance over family matters in a conservative society.
However, supporters of the bill argue that its aim is to align with Islamic law and protect young girls from immoral relationships.