Iraq’s parliament is considering a controversial new law that would lower the legal marriage age for girls from 18 to nine.
This law, backed by conservative Shia groups, could let men marry very young girls and would put most family decisions under religious authority.
Many see this as a setback for women’s rights, limiting women’s ability to divorce, get custody of children, and inherit.
Women’s rights activists, including Raya Faiq and a group of female representatives, are pushing to block the law, arguing it would allow child marriages, restrict women’s freedoms, and lead to abuse.
The law also risks pulling girls out of school, which could affect their education and future opportunities.
Critics argue this change endangers girls’ safety and rights.