UN Experts Warn Iraq of Setback in Women's and Children's Rights with Proposed Legal Amendments

The Iraqi Parliament passed the amendments in their second reading on 16 September 2024, prompting the experts to issue a public appeal.

UN experts have raised grave concerns over proposed amendments to Iraq's Personal Status Law No. 188 of 1959, warning that the changes could undermine women's and children's rights, particularly in areas of marriage, divorce, and child custody. If enacted, these amendments risk rolling back key protections and potentially exacerbating violence against women and girls.

The Iraqi Parliament passed the amendments in their second reading on 16 September 2024, prompting the experts to issue a public appeal. In a letter dated 10 September, they cautioned that the amendments would breach Iraq's obligations to ensure gender equality and protect children's rights under international law.

The experts urged the Iraqi government to conduct a transparent, inclusive debate and prioritize the interests of women and children during deliberations, emphasizing the wider societal impact if these amendments are passed.