Iraqi SJC backs controversial Personal Status Law amendment
Despite these assurances, concerns persist among experts and activists who consider the amendment potentially detrimental. Several lawyers and civil activists have faced legal repercussions for voicing their opposition.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a move that could signal imminent parliamentary approval, Iraq's Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) has thrown its support behind the controversial amendment to the Personal Status Law.
The Council's statement aimed to quell public outcry and clarify misconceptions surrounding the amendment, asserting that media portrayals have been inaccurate.
The Council emphasized that the amendment does not curtail maintenance rights, deprive children of their mothers, or deny girls inheritance or the right to marry.
It further stated that the amendment aligns with Article 41 of the Iraqi constitution, which allows Iraqis to observe their personal status based on their religion or beliefs, as regulated by law.
The Council clarified that the amendment itself does not explicitly detail family matters like marriage, divorce, adoption, and maintenance.
These aspects would be addressed later through regulations developed by the Shiite and Sunni Endowment Offices in coordination with the Judicial Council.
Despite these assurances, concerns persist among experts and activists who consider the amendment potentially detrimental. Several lawyers and civil activists have faced legal repercussions for voicing their opposition.
The Judicial Council's endorsement suggests that the amendment may soon be passed in parliament, potentially fueling further debate and protests.