Iraqi Parliament hosts workshop on controversial Personal Status Law amendments

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Parliament’s Committee on Women, Family, and Children, chaired by MP Dunia Al-Shammari, held a workshop aimed at gathering opinions on proposed amendments to the Personal Status Law No. 188 of 1959. In collaboration with the Legal Committee, the workshop brought together stakeholders including judiciary representatives, civil society organizations, UNICEF, and legal experts in Baghdad.

“The purpose of this workshop is to listen to the views and suggestions of all concerned parties to ensure the law is amended in a way that accommodates the needs of all, particularly those opposing certain changes,” Al-Shammari said in her opening remarks.

Participants emphasized the importance of protecting constitutional rights, especially those concerning women and children. “It is crucial that these amendments protect the rights of women and children and do not undermine them,” one participant noted. Calls were made for careful research to avoid public misunderstanding and ensure the clarity and enforceability of the laws.

One key topic was Article 57, which addresses child custody. Participants advocated for a fair approach to shared custody between parents, with some suggesting the inclusion of social workers to assist in such cases.

The first reading of the proposed amendments on August 4 sparked widespread protests in several Iraqi cities. Following a second reading on September 16, the Iraqi Federal Supreme Court ruled that the amendments align with the constitution.

The changes, supported by Iraq’s largest political bloc, the Shia Coordination Framework, would allow individuals to handle family-related issues such as inheritance, divorce, and child custody either through religious authorities or the civil judiciary, based on personal preference. Critics argue that these amendments could erode legal protections for women and children and may lower the minimum marriage age for Muslim girls below 18.