BAGHDAD, Iraq — A proposed amendment to Iraq’s Personal Status Law has sparked intense debate, creating a rift within the Iraqi community. The changes aim to align marriage processes with Sharia law according to religious sects, fueling discussions among civil society groups, religious leaders, and politicians.
The amendment proposes Sharia-based laws, distinguishing between Sunni and Shiite practices. Notably, it seeks to lower the legal marriage age to nine for girls and 15 for boys, a significant departure from the current age limit of 18.
Shiite cleric Kadhim Shamari, a key supporter of the amendment, emphasized the importance of aligning personal status laws with religious beliefs. “As a Shiite citizen, I have the right for my personal status laws to reflect my faith, especially in marriage, inheritance, and child custody,” Shamari told Zoom News. He also criticized foreign influences, accusing them of obstructing the rights of Iraqi Shiites.
Proponents of the amendment argue that the current law is outdated and fails to address community needs. Supporters, some of whom claim to have suffered under the existing legal framework, vow to continue pushing for change, warning that maintaining the status quo could worsen divorce rates and social instability.
On the other hand, civil society organizations and activists strongly oppose the amendment, arguing it threatens women’s rights and could exacerbate social problems. They call for laws that prioritize equality and social welfare.
To move forward, political factions in Parliament have agreed to pair the passage of the Personal Status Law amendment with the General Amnesty Law to address concerns across the political spectrum.
Kurdish lawmaker Sozan Mansur told Zoom News that while Kurdish factions are open to legislative amendments, they expect the full text to be available for review. Mansur criticized the current legislative process, noting that MPs are expected to vote on the first and second readings without access to the amendment’s details, which will only be revealed six months later.
On Monday, Parliament discussed the second reading of amendments to Articles 2 and 10 of Personal Status Law No. 188 of 1959. The outcome could have far-reaching consequences for family law and social cohesion in Iraq.
As debates continue, the Iraqi Parliament faces the challenge of balancing sectarian interests with national unity and legal standards.
With reporting by Zoom News’ Akam Fahmi from Baghdad.
