Iraq’s parliament has passed a new law criminalizing same-sex relationship, imposing a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. The legislation, known as the Law on Combating Prostitution and Homosexuality, also targets individuals who promote homosexuality or prostitution with a minimum prison term of seven years. Furthermore, the law includes penalties of one to three years for those who change their “biological gender” or dress in an effeminate manner.
The law, aimed at upholding religious values, was supported primarily by conservative Shi’ite Muslim parties, the largest coalition in Iraq’s predominantly Muslim parliament. According to a copy of the law reviewed by Reuters, its purpose is to “protect Iraqi society from moral depravity and the calls for homosexuality that have overtaken the world.”
The initial draft of the bill included provisions for the death penalty for same-sex acts but was revised following objections from the United States and European nations. Nevertheless, rights advocates and international observers have condemned the law as a severe blow to the LGBT community in Iraq and a violation of fundamental human rights.
Rasha Younes, deputy director of the LGBT rights program at Human Rights Watch, expressed grave concern, stating that the law “rubber-stamps Iraq’s appalling record of rights violations against LGBT people.” She further emphasized that this legislation represents a significant setback for human rights in the country.
Until the passing of this law, Iraq did not explicitly criminalize gay sex, although loosely defined morality clauses in its penal code had previously been used to target LGBT individuals. Additionally, members of the LGBT community in Iraq have faced violence and discrimination from armed groups and individuals.
Iraqi officials responsible for human rights were not immediately available for comment on the new law. Over the past year, major Iraqi political parties have intensified their criticism of LGBT rights, with rainbow flags often being burned during protests by conservative Shi’ite Muslim factions, both in power and in opposition.
Globally, more than 60 countries still criminalize gay sex, while over 130 countries have legalized same-sex relationship, according to data from Our World in Data. Iraq’s recent legislative action reflects a broader trend of challenges faced by the LGBT community in various parts of the world, highlighting ongoing struggles for equality and human rights.