Iraq has recently enacted legislation criminalizing same-sex relationships, the promotion of homosexuality, transgenderism, and related medical procedures, along with what is termed as the “intentional practice of effeminacy.” Originally, Iraqi lawmakers proposed the death penalty for such offenses, but the final draft of the bill was amended following opposition from the United States and European Union nations.
The newly adopted Law on Combating Prostitution and Homosexuality stipulates severe penalties, including a minimum of 10 years and up to 15 years in prison for engaging in homosexual relationships, seven years for promoting homosexuality or prostitution, and three years for transgender individuals or those undergoing sex change medical procedures. The law is framed as a measure to safeguard Iraqi society from what is perceived as moral decay and the global proliferation of homosexuality.
Acting Iraqi parliamentary speaker, Mohsen Al-Mandalawi, justified the law as a necessary step to preserve societal values and protect children from what is deemed as harmful influences. However, the law has sparked controversy both domestically and internationally.
Some Iraqi politicians have called for the expulsion of US Ambassador Alina Romanowski after she condemned the legislation, accusing her of interfering in the country’s internal affairs. On the other hand, many citizens – like Baghdad resident Ahmed Mansour, interviewed by Reuters – support the law on religious grounds, citing adherence to Islamic principles as the basis for their approval.
Critics, including Rasha Younes, the deputy director of the LGBTQ rights program at Human Rights Watch, have denounced the law as a grave violation of human rights, perpetuating a pattern of discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in Iraq.
The United States has also expressed concern over the legislation, with State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller warning that it could have implications for foreign investment and potentially restrict freedom of speech and expression.
Iraq is one of 60 countries where homosexual activity is illegal.