A chapter of Iraq’s draft constitution gives Islam a major role in Iraqi civil law, raising concerns that women could lose rights in marriage, divorce, and inheritance. Most worrying for women’s groups has been the section on civil rights, which some feel would significantly roll back women’s rights under a 1959 civil law enacted by a secular regime. In the copy obtained by AP, Article 19 of the second chapter says ”the followers of any religion or sect are free to choose their civil status according to their religious or sectarian beliefs.” Shi’ite Muslim leaders have pushed for a stronger role for Islam in civil law, but women’s groups argue that could base legal interpretations on stricter religious lines that are less favorable toward women. Full Story
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