Iraq Enacts Severe Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation, Imposing Harsh Penalties

The new Iraqi law criminalizes same-sex relationships and gender-transition procedures, sparking international condemnation and concerns over human rights violations.

Iraq's parliament passed a law imposing up to 15 years in prison for same-sex relations and three years for transgender individuals.
The legislation also targets organizations promoting LGBTQ+ rights, imposing heavy fines and prison terms.
International backlash includes strong opposition from the U.S. and the U.K., citing threats to human rights and economic impacts.
Human rights organizations describe the law as a severe attack on the LGBTQ+ community, exacerbating an already hostile environment.
The law was passed quietly and strategically timed to avoid diplomatic tensions during a high-profile visit by the Iraqi Prime Minister to the U.S.

South China Morning Post

Deutsche Welle

Associated Press

Voice of America (VOA News)

CNN

United States Department of State