Update – April 27, 2024: Today, Iraq's parliament passed amendments to the law combating prostitution that impose severe penalties for same-sex relationships and bans the "promotion" of same-sex relationships, akin to measures seen in Russia. This law, which originally proposed the death penalty, now subjects LGBT+ individuals and allies to up to 15 years in prison. Transgender individuals face dire threats, as the new law criminalizes anyone who needs to transition with up to three years in prison. We remain dedicated to fighting for the rights and safety of the LGBT+ community in Iraq. You can donate here to help save LGBT+ lives in Iraq – lives depend on your swift action.

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Iraq's Parliament is currently reviewing a proposed amendment that represents one of the most severe legal threats to the LGBT+ community in recent history. Initiated by Raad Al-Maliki on August 15, 2023, the Iraqi Parliament concluded its second session on 1/2/2024, reading three laws and discussing the first amendment to the proposal for Law No. (8) of 1988 combating prostitution. The amendment aligns with the "social values of the Iraqi people" and aims to redefine "sexual perversion" within the existing "Law on Combatting Prostitution," potentially resulting in the criminalization of same-sex relationships and transgender identities with penalties as harsh as the death sentence.

The repercussions of this law would be devastating, not only criminalizing LGBT+ existence but also penalizing allies and human rights defenders with extreme measures, including death. The amendment equates same-sex relations with "sexual perversion" and advocates for the closure of any organization or institution that supports LGBT+ rights, further marginalizing the community and silencing their advocates.

Those expressing transgender identities are criminalized for "imitating women," while the use of the term "gender" in state institutions and civil society organizations and the use of hormones are banned.

This legislative proposal defies Iraq's constitutional commitment to equality and international human rights standards. It's a dire situation, with the vote looming and countless lives hanging in the balance. We must act swiftly to prevent this draconian law from taking effect.

It is vital to stand together in protecting human rights and to offer support to those at risk of persecution.

We call upon you to sign this petition, urging the Iraqi Parliament and President Abdul Latif Rashid to outright reject this amendment. We also seek the international community's intervention to preserve the fundamental human rights to life. Your signature signifies a call for justice and a rejection of laws that criminalize love and self-expression.

This campaign is run by Guardians of Equality Movement (GEM) in conjunction with Gala Iraq.