In a controversial move, the Iraqi parliament has approved legislation imposing severe penalties for same-sex relations and gender identity, sparking outrage among human rights activists and LGBTQ+ advocates.
Under the newly passed bill, individuals found guilty of engaging in same-sex relations could face imprisonment of up to 15 years, marking a significant escalation in the criminalization of LGBTQ+ rights in the country.
Furthermore, transgender individuals will be subject to a three-year jail sentence under amendments to a 1988 anti-prostitution law, reflecting a broader crackdown on gender identity rights.
The legislation, which was endorsed during a parliamentary session attended by 170 out of 329 lawmakers, underscores the conservative social attitudes prevailing in Iraqi society.
While an earlier draft proposed capital punishment for same-sex relations, the revised amendments authorize courts to impose sentences ranging from 10 to 15 years in prison for such offenses.
Moreover, the law imposes stringent penalties on individuals deemed to be "promoting" same-sex relations, mandating a minimum seven-year prison term for advocacy or support of LGBTQ+ rights.
In a move criticized by human rights organizations, the amended law criminalizes gender reassignment surgery performed for personal reasons, branding it as a punishable offense. Transgender individuals and medical professionals involved in gender-affirming procedures could face imprisonment of up to three years.
The passage of this legislation has elicited condemnation from international human rights groups, who have decried the infringement of basic rights and freedoms, particularly for marginalized LGBTQ+ communities.
As Iraq grapples with ongoing social and political challenges, the enactment of laws targeting same-sex relations and gender identity serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to safeguard human rights and promote inclusivity within the nation.
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