Masrour Barzani did not spare words during a fiery debate at the Middle East Peace and Security Conference in Erbil. He would not spare any more words for an outcry against Iraq’s objectionable plan to lower the legal marriage age to nine years, and he called it “a huge backward step” for women’s rights in the country.
The panel, hosted by Al Arabiya’s Hadley Gamble, tackled a range of important issues including women’s rights, Iran’s growing influence in Baghdad, disputes over oil, and even US foreign policy under former President Donald Trump. But it was the proposed amendment to Iraq’s Personal Status Law that caused the most uproar.
Barzani, visibly frustrated, didn’t mince words when addressing the topic. He said that when it comes to women’s rights, Iraq was once a pioneer in the Middle East. However, we are currently witnessing a risky reversal. Illiteracy, poverty, and injustice are making it possible for legislation like these to ever be discussed. It’s devastating.
The rule has sparked outrage in Iraq and other places because it would allow weddings between girls as young as nine. Amnesty International and other human rights groups have condemned the initiative, saying it may reverse decades of progress for women and girls in the region and legitimize child abuse.
Barzani made it clear that Kurdistan stood firmly against such measures. “In Kurdistan, we have a completely different approach,” he said. “Our culture respects women’s rights. Historically, women here have had more freedoms, and we’ve worked hard to make sure that continues. We have been able to grow women’s numbers which now adorn parliament up to the cabinet levels as well as various levels of authority. Women here really are business executives, top administrators, and decision-makers.”
Reporters inquired from Barzani if equal pay is enforced in Kurdistan, to which he retorted with a simple “Yes.” He was staying in line with the bias for everyone, explaining that, “Everyone deserves equal rights-not only women. Citizens-every single one of them-should be treated equally.”
The audience erupted into applause, clearly stirred by Barzani’s adamant defense of women’s rights and equality.
“We certainly do not want Iraq to be pulled into this war.” The conversation continued: Barzani went on to speak about the increasing influence of Iran in Baghdad, expressing fears of Iraq getting dragged into regional wars. “We don’t think this is Iraq’s war,” he said. “Iraq should focus on its own interests, not get caught up in the agendas of others.” This point struck a chord with many at the conference, as tensions between regional powers continue to escalate.
Billions Lost in Oil Revenues
During the discussion, Kurdistan and Baghdad’s oil tensions were another hot topic. Barzani expressed his annoyance at Kurdistan’s monetary losses as a result of oil export limitations.
“We’re losing a billion dollars almost every month,” he disclosed. “That’s over $20 billion in total. And none of these losses are being compensated.”
He went on to criticize Iraq’s outdated oil laws, arguing that they’re unsuitable for a federal system like Iraq’s. “These delays in revenue are hurting both the federal government and the Kurdistan region. It’s not sustainable.”
Hopes for Stronger US-Kurdistan Ties
Barzani hoped to raise cautious optimism when the debate turned to US foreign policy under President Trump. He praised the US for its anti-terrorism support and said he hoped cooperation would continue.
“We want the US as before to maintain strong ties with Iraq and that is especially with Kurdistan,” he said. “We have valued that partnership.”
Barzani’s pronouncement at the conference sounds a clarion call for progress, equality and stability. He has strong stands for women’s rights, fighting against the Iranian influence, and critiquing Baghdad oil policies, which many in the audience found relevant.
As the conference wound to a close, it was clear that Barzani’s message: Kurdistan is committed to moving forward, while the rest of Iraq may be stepping back.
