Is Iraq legalizing marriage for 9-year-olds? Stirs global backlash over child rights under new Sharia law | VIDEO

World News: Iraq is on the verge of passing a controversial personal status law that would legalize marriage for girls as young as nine years old, a move that has drawn widespread criticism. The law is rooted in Sharia principles, with proponents citing historical and religious precedents. However, this development has alarmed human rights activists, particularly women’s rights advocates, who argue that this move sets a dangerous precedent.

Historical and religious basis for the law

Supporters of the new legislation cite Islamic traditions and the marriage of the Prophet Muhammad to Aisha at the age of nine as justification. They argue that the law aligns with religious teachings from 1,400 years ago. This stance, however, has raised significant concern among rights groups, who emphasize that such practices do not belong in modern society.

Outrage from women’s rights activists

Iraqi lawyer and women’s rights activist Azat Alsalim condemned the law, stating, "You are following Muhammad who married Aisha at age of 9 years 1400 years ago, how can a normal human being marry a child?" Activists like Alsalim argue that allowing marriage at such a young age denies girls their basic rights to education, health, and personal development, reinforcing harmful societal norms.

International backlash

The proposed law has sparked widespread international backlash, with global human rights organizations expressing concerns about the exploitation of minors and the dangers of child marriage. Critics assert that legalizing such marriages under religious laws perpetuates gender inequality and could lead to severe consequences for Iraq’s young girls. As the debate continues, many await the final decision, hoping that the Iraqi government will reconsider the implications of such a law and the long-term impact on children’s rights.