"Domestic Violence Against Women in Iraqi and International Laws

Abstract

Domestic violence against women is one of the most prominent challenges threatening family stability and social cohesion. This phenomenon has escalated in recent years, especially in Iraq, which suffers from ongoing conflicts and economic and social crises.

This research aims to examine the extent to which Iraqi laws protect women from domestic violence, by analyzing the relevant legislative texts in force, such as Penal Code No. 111 of 1969 and the Personal Status Law No. 188 of 1959, as well as reviewing international laws and treaties ratified by Iraq. The study also addresses the latest developments in Iraq regarding this issue, particularly the judicial approach to all forms of gender-based violence and the conflict between legislation and national constitutional principles.

Some forms of domestic violence still go unpunished or are dealt with as minor offenses. Moreover, the absence of a special law for the protection of the family (despite a draft law being under discussion for some time) has left many cases facing procedural challenges in court