Baghdad, Iraq — The Lutheran World Federation recently praised the Iraqi government for its proactive role in engaging with the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) regarding human rights. This engagement includes a focus on enhancing protections for women and girls, marking a notable commitment to addressing gender-based violence and discrimination.
The Federation expressed appreciation for Iraq’s legislative efforts aimed at safeguarding women’s rights, highlighting initiatives such as shelters for victims of violence, hotlines for support, and community awareness campaigns focused on combating violence against women.
Despite these positive steps, the Federation raised critical concerns regarding ongoing and systemic violence faced by women and girls in Iraq. They pointed out significant flaws within the country’s legal framework, noting provisions that perpetuate discrimination and mar the effective enforcement of international human rights standards.
Among the troubling aspects cited are laws that condone “disciplining” wives, leniencies for honor-related crimes, and loopholes allowing perpetrators of sexual assault to evade prosecution under certain circumstances. Such laws severely undermine the fundamental rights of women, creating an environment in which violence can persist without adequate deterrence.
In its address to the Iraqi leadership, the Federation urged the government to accelerate the passage of a comprehensive anti-domestic violence law. This law should criminalize marital rape and mandate the repeal of specific Penal Code articles that currently allow for violence against women. The Federation also calls for the abolition of provisions in the Personal Status Law that permit child marriage, advocating for stricter controls of informal marriages.
Moreover, the organization recommended that Iraq remove reservations related to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), specifically regarding family and nationality rights. Reforms are needed within the National Identity Card system to guarantee divorced women and internally displaced persons can access vital documentation independently, facilitating their societal participation.
To further bolster protections for women and girls, the Federation emphasized the need for increased funding and expansion of national protection services. This includes enhancing shelters and psychosocial support systems, particularly in rural and marginalized areas.
The Federation underscored the urgency for the Iraqi government to strengthen its efforts in combating violence against women and safeguarding women’s rights broadly. Special attention should be directed to regions facing ethnic, religious, and cultural complexities, like Sinjar and Summel, where instability poses additional challenges.
The ongoing advocacy for the rights of women and girls remains a central issue in Iraq, and the Federation’s recommendations serve as a critical call for significant legal and social reforms.
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