Early and Forced Child Marriages in Iraq

Early and forced child marriages remain a significant challenge in Iraq, driven by a combination of socio-cultural traditions, economic hardship, conflict-related displacement, and weak legal protections. Iraq has one of the highest child marriage rates in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with around 24% of girls married before the age of 18 and 5% before the age of 15. The prevalence is even higher in rural and conflict-affected areas such as Ninewa, Anbar, Diyala, and Basra, where economic instability and lack of access to education push families toward early marriage as a coping mechanism.

One of the primary drivers of child marriage is economic hardship. Many families, particularly those displaced by conflict, struggle to meet basic needs and see marriage as a way to alleviate financial burdens or secure a dowry. Additionally, deeply rooted social and cultural norms reinforce the practice, with many believing that early marriage protects a girl’s honor and secures her future. However, these beliefs often trap young girls in cycles of poverty, violence, and limited opportunities.

Weak legal protections further exacerbate the issue. Although the Iraqi Personal Status Law (1959) sets the minimum legal age of marriage at 18, exceptions allow girls as young as 15 to marry with judicial and parental approval. In many cases, religious and tribal courts take precedence, permitting marriages at even younger ages. A 2017 proposal to lower the marriage age further sparked national and international backlash, highlighting the ongoing struggle to protect children's rights in Iraq.

The consequences of child marriage are severe and lifelong. Girls who marry early are often forced to drop out of school, cutting off their access to education and economic independence. They also face serious health risks, including complications from early pregnancies, higher maternal mortality rates, and increased chances of infant death. Furthermore, child brides are significantly more vulnerable to domestic violence and marital rape, with little legal recourse or support systems in place.

In response, women’s rights organizations and international bodies are working to combat child marriage through awareness campaigns, legal advocacy, and direct support for at-risk girls. Local NGOs, including WANi, alongside global organizations are pushing for legal reforms ensuring better access to education. Efforts also focus on strengthening Violence Against Women (VAW) protection mechanisms, expanding shelters, and equipping local communities with the tools to challenge harmful norms.

To effectively address child marriage in Iraq, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Strengthening legal frameworks by closing loopholes that permit underage marriage, providing economic support to vulnerable families, and investing in education and community engagement programs are all critical steps. By empowering young girls and their communities, Iraq can move toward a future where every child has the right to a safe and prosperous life, free from forced marriage.