Child Marriage in Iraq
A young Iraqi woman shares her story of being sold into marriage at age 11, facing abuse and exploitation, and working as a sex worker in Erbil. Proposed amendments to Iraq's Personal Status Law could legalize marriage for girls as young as 9, raising concerns about child marriage and exploitation.
Key Points
- Young Iraqi girl sold into marriage at 11, faced abuse and exploitation.
- Proposed amendments to Iraq's Personal Status Law could legalize marriage for girls as young as 9.
- Concerns raised about potential consequences of child marriage, including exploitation and abuse.
Pros
- Proposed amendments may lower divorce rates and boost family values, according to some lawmakers.
Cons
- Legalizing child marriage could lead to exploitation, abuse, and harm to underage girls.
- Amendments could shift decision-making power to clerics, potentially undermining women's and children's rights.