Photo Credit: Reuters
In a move that has sparked international concern, Iraq’s parliament recently passed a bill criminalizing same-sex relationships. The legislation imposes jail terms ranging from 10 to 15 years for individuals involved in such relationships. Additionally, transgender people could face imprisonment for one to three years under the new law.
Supporters of the changes argue that they are necessary to uphold religious values within the country. However, human rights groups view this as a significant setback, adding to Iraq’s record of violations against LGBT individuals.
The law targets not only same-sex couples but also those who promote homosexuality, engage in prostitution, or undergo gender reassignment surgery. Men who intentionally present themselves as women and individuals participating in “wife swapping” are also subject to prison terms.
Notably, an earlier draft of the bill had proposed capital punishment for same-sex relationships. However, due to opposition from the United States and other Western countries, this provision was amended.
MP Amir al-Maamouri defended the legislation, emphasizing its role in combating what he termed “sexual deviancy.” He cited unique cases that he believed contradicted Islamic and societal values.
The bill’s passage was strategically timed, occurring after Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani’s recent visit to the US. Lawmaker Raed al-Maliki, who championed the amendments, clarified that they were an internal matter, rejecting any external interference.
Iraq has a history of targeting LGBT individuals through morality laws. Human Rights Watch and other organizations have documented cases of abduction, torture, rape, and murder.
Major Iraqi political parties have intensified their criticism of LGBT rights, with rainbow flags being burned during protests.
The US State Department expressed concern, stating that the law reforms pose a threat to human rights and freedoms. Furthermore, it warned that such discrimination could hinder Iraq’s economic diversification and foreign investment.
UK Secretary of State Lord David Cameron echoed these sentiments, labeling the amendments “dangerous and worrying.” He emphasized that no one should be targeted based on their identity and urged Iraq to uphold human rights for all without discrimination.
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