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The National (16 September 2019)

Mina Aldroubi

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 member of religious parties.

Women's rights groups have been pushing for the legislation of the bill since 2011, Sohaila Al Assam, a prominent women’s rights activist, told The National.

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