Iraq's parliament has passed a law criminalizing same-sex relations with up to 15 years in prison, media outlets reported.
The law aims to "protect Iraqi society from moral depravity and the calls for homosexuality that have overtaken the world," according to a copy of the law that Reuters viewed.
The Law on Combating Prostitution and Homosexuality bans same-sex relations with at least 10 years and a maximum of 15 years in prison; it also requires at least seven years in prison for anybody who promotes homosexuality or prostitution. The bill had initially included the death penalty for same-sex acts but was amended before being passed after strong opposition from the United States and European nations.
In a U.S. State Department release that Windy City Times obtained, it was stated, "The United States is deeply concerned by the Iraqi Council of Representatives' passage of an amendment to existing legislation, officially called the Anti-Prostitution and Homosexuality Law, which threatens constitutionally protected human rights and fundamental freedoms. The law bans same-sex relations with steep fines and imprisonment and punishes those who 'promote homosexuality.' Limiting the rights of certain individuals in a society undermines the rights of all.
"This amendment threatens those most at risk in Iraqi society. It can be used to hamper free-speech and expression and inhibit the operations of NGOs across Iraq. The legislation also weakens Iraq's ability to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment. International business coalitions have already indicated that such discrimination in Iraq will harm business and economic growth in the country.
"Respect for human rights and political and economic inclusion is essential for Iraq's security, stability, and prosperity. This legislation is inconsistent with these values and undermines the government's political and economic reform efforts."
—Andrew Davis
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