In a controversial move, the Iraqi Parliament has passed a law criminalizing same-sex relationships, imposing a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for individuals found guilty of engaging in such activities.
The legislation, which was approved by a majority vote, has sparked outrage among human rights activists and members of the LGBTQ+ community both within Iraq and internationally.
Under the new law, any form of same-sex relationship, including marriage or cohabitation, is now considered a criminal offense in Iraq. Those convicted could face lengthy prison sentences and potentially harsh treatment within the legal system.
Supporters of the law argue that it upholds traditional values and protects the moral fabric of Iraqi society. They believe that criminalizing same-sex relationships is necessary to preserve the country's cultural and religious norms.
However, critics view the legislation as a severe violation of human rights and an attack on individual freedoms. They argue that everyone should have the right to love and form relationships with whomever they choose, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.
The Iraqi Parliament's decision has drawn condemnation from various international organizations and governments, with calls for the law to be repealed and for greater protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in Iraq.
It remains to be seen how this new law will be enforced and what impact it will have on the LGBTQ+ community in Iraq. The debate over the rights of individuals to express their sexual orientation freely continues to be a contentious issue both in Iraq and around the world.
