Forced Marriage of LGBTQ+ Individuals in Iraq

Traditional Marriage: A Harsh Social Restriction on the LGBTQ+ Community.

In traditional societies like Iraq, marriage is considered one of the most significant social customs, ensuring lineage continuity and strengthening family and community ties. This concept defines gender roles, expecting men and women to marry someone of the opposite sex to form a “model family.”

But does this traditional concept of marriage align with the diverse realities of gender? How does the traditional Iraqi marriage system impose severe injustice on those who do not conform to these norms? Can this system be changed to reduce the social pressure imposed by traditional marriage?

In Iraq, as in many other conservative cultures, marriage between a man and a woman is the only socially and religiously accepted model. It is framed as a complementary relationship between genders, with predefined roles—where men are expected to be the “heads of households,” while women are expected to fulfill the roles of wives and mothers.

Within this framework, LGBTQ+ individuals who do not identify with this rigid gender binary are often forced into marriages with someone of the opposite gender, despite not aligning with traditional gender roles. This immense societal pressure leads to severe emotional and psychological distress, forcing individuals into relationships that do not reflect their true identities.

Injustice to Oneself and the Partner: Consequences of Forced Marriage

One of the most significant harms caused by social and legal pressure on LGBTQ+ individuals in Iraq is the injustice suffered by both the individual and their partner. Injustice to Oneself
LGBTQ+ individuals who are forced into marriage for social acceptance often experience internal conflict and emotional distress. They are compelled to conform to the role of “husband” or “wife” despite it not being natural or comfortable for them. This leads to accumulating negative emotions such as anxiety and depression, and even the fear of losing their true identity under societal expectations.Injustice to the other partner.

The harm extends beyond LGBTQ+ individuals to their spouses, who are also forced into a marriage that lacks genuine emotional and gender compatibility. These relationships are often imbalanced, lacking open and honest communication about emotional and sexual needs. This can lead to unintended infidelity or emotional detachment, as there is no true harmony between the partners.

Can Change Happen in the Traditional Marriage System?

Changing traditional marriage concepts in Iraq may seem difficult due to deeply ingrained customs and traditions. However, with increasing social awareness and open discussions about gender and equality, there is a real opportunity for gradual change.

One of the first steps toward change is raising awareness about gender diversity within Iraqi society. It is crucial to understand that gender is not simply a fixed binary of male and female but rather a spectrum that includes various identities. Education and awareness on these topics can help reduce the pressure on LGBTQ+ individuals who are forced into traditional marriage.

Additionally, societal discussions should focus on redefining marriage as a personal choice rather than a family or societal obligation. Marriage should not be forced or imposed, and alternative relationship models that reflect social and gender diversity should be considered.

Strengthening family support is also key to alleviating pressure on LGBTQ+ individuals. If families and communities become more accepting of diverse gender identities, individuals will find it easier to make personal and romantic decisions without the fear of societal rejection.

Conclusion

Ultimately, changing Iraq’s traditional marriage system requires collective social efforts to shift perceptions of gender and relationships. Marriage should not be strictly limited to a man and a woman but should instead reflect the right to love and acceptance.

By eliminating the social and familial pressures that force LGBTQ+ individuals into traditional marriages, we can work toward a more inclusive and understanding society where everyone can live in peace with their gender identity.