IFIR-Eng The International Federation of Iraqi Refugees
Dear Muhamad Alosh
Date:30/01/2025
I hope this message finds you well.
I am writing to bring your attention to a deeply concerning development in Iraq that demands urgent action from global advocates for human rights and gender equality. On January 21, 2025, the Iraqi Parliament passed amendments to the Personal Status Law of 1959 that legalises child marriage, setting the minimum age for children to marry as low as nine years old under the Jaafari Shiite school, with the Sunni school setting the minimum age at 15.
This decision represents an appalling regression for women’s rights and the protection of children, marking a severe setback for Iraq’s progress and for the global struggle for human dignity. By institutionalising child marriage, these amendments endorse not only the violation of fundamental human rights but also a direct assault on the physical and psychological well-being of young girls. Additionally, the law introduces further provisions that undermine women’s rights within marriage, including issues of divorce and safeguarding.
This is not just a legal issue—it is a moral one. Such legislation harkens back to archaic practices that strip women and children of their agency, health, and safety. It is imperative that international solidarity is shown in opposition to this move.
I believe it would be a good idea to publicly condemn these amendments and call for their annulment. Your leadership in standing against this regressive law would send a strong message of support for those fighting for the rights and safety of women and children in Iraq. We also believe it would be valuable to raise this issue within international bodies such as the United Nations, the European Parliament, and relevant human rights organisations, to apply pressure on the Iraqi government to rescind this deeply harmful decision.
The fight for the rights of women and children is a cause that transcends borders, and the international community must not remain silent in the face of such gross violations. Your voice of leadership and moral clarity can make a significant impact in preventing the implementation of this dangerous law. Thank you for your attention to this urgent issue. I look forward to your response and to any steps you may take to stand in opposition to this grave injustice.
Yours sincerely,
Sawsan Salim
Director
Kurdish and Middle Eastern Women’s Organisaion -KMEWO
Dashty Jamal
General Secretary of International Federation of Iraqi Refugees (IFIR)
