President Barham Salih has sent a long-stalled bill for the protection of women against gender-based violence to Parliament.
Written by Mina Aldroubi, The National
Iraqi women are calling on Parliament to pass a draft bill banning domestic abuse against women, which has the backing of President Barham Salih but has not progressed since it was proposed eight years ago.
Forced marriage and violence against women has increased in Iraq as it tackles the aftermath of years of war and widespread corruption.
Mr Salih said that the bill, which was sent to Parliament on Sunday, aimed to protect Iraqi families, especially women and girls, from “all forms of gender-based violence”.
It would also punish the perpetrators, provide protection to victims and compensate them for damages.
If passed, the draft will also help to provide women with the necessary care and rehabilitation through the establishment of “safe centres for victims of abuse”, Mr Salih said.
But it could again languish because of vocal opposition among members of religious parties.
