Iraq’s Federal Supreme Court has suspended the implementation of three contentious laws passed by parliament last month, including a measure that activists argue undermines women’s rights.
The suspension comes after a group of lawmakers challenged the legality of the voting process, alleging that the bills were passed collectively rather than individually. The court issued a ruling to halt enforcement of the laws until a final decision is reached.
One of the suspended measures amends Iraq’s personal status law, expanding the jurisdiction of Islamic courts over family matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance.
Women’s rights activists argue that the changes erode previous reforms that had established a unified family law and safeguards for women. Conservative Shiite lawmakers, who championed the amendments, claim they are necessary to align Iraq’s legal system with Islamic principles and reduce Western influence.
Earlier versions of the amendment raised concerns over child marriage, as some interpretations of Islamic law allow girls as young as 9 to marry. The final version approved by parliament states that both spouses must be “adults,” without specifying a legal age.
The court also suspended a general amnesty law, which some fear could lead to the release of individuals convicted of corruption or war crimes, as well as a bill aimed at returning lands confiscated from the Kurds under Saddam Hussein’s rule. The latter is opposed by Arab groups, who argue it could lead to the displacement of Arab residents.
The court’s decision temporarily halts the implementation of all three laws while legal proceedings continue, marking a significant moment in Iraq’s political and legal landscape.
