Opponents to the amendments say they effectively legalize child marriage in Iraq and mark a significant step backward for women's rights in the country. The passage of the amendments also sets a precedent for other governments seeking to pass similar bills to adhere to their interpretation of Islamic law.

By Guest Contributor By Malak KhaledIraq’s parliament passed three controversial laws on Tuesday, leading to public outcry and criticism from human rights activists over the laws’ potential impact and the way they were passed.