Iraq sentences homosexuality to up to 15 years in prison

This is said to be a move to uphold religious values. The law is aimed at "protecting Iraqi society from the moral degradation and calls for homosexuality that are rampant in the world ".

A general view of the Iraqi parliament in Baghdad, Iraq, January 9, 2022. Photo: REUTERS

The law is backed mainly by conservative Shiite Muslim parties, which form the largest coalition in Iraq's predominantly Muslim parliament.

The Anti-Prostitution and Homosexuality Law prohibits homosexual relations with a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum of 15 years in prison, and prescribes a minimum of seven years in prison for anyone who promotes homosexuality or prostitution.

It also imposes a prison sentence of one to three years for anyone who changes their "biological sex" or deliberately dresses in a feminine manner.

The bill originally included the death penalty for same-sex acts but was amended before being passed following strong opposition from the US and European countries.

Major parties in Iraq have stepped up criticism of LGBT rights over the past year, with the rainbow flag frequently burned at protests by both the ruling conservative Shiite Muslim faction and the opposition last year.

According to the organization Our World in Data, more than 60 countries have criminalized homosexual sex, while homosexual acts are legal in more than 130 countries.

Mai Anh (according to Reuters)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/iraq-phat-tu-quan-he-dong-gioi-len-toi-15-nam-post293547.html