World
Iraq Considers Lowering Marriage Age for Girls from 15 to 9
A proposal to lower the legal marriage age for girls in Iraq from 15 to 9 years old is gaining traction among Shia political parties.
Supporters of the initiative argue that the change aligns with Sharia law, which they consider obligatory for all Muslims.
However, critics have voiced serious concerns, warning that such a move could result in significant human rights violations, particularly against women and children. They argue that lowering the marriage age would deprive girls of their right to education and hinder their full development.
International organizations, including the United Nations, along with Iraqi human rights advocates, have expressed alarm over the proposed amendments. They are urging the Iraqi government to reconsider the draft law and to uphold international standards for the protection of children’s rights.
