ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq - The United Nations’ mission in Iraq (UNAMI) on Friday stated that they are 'closely following the latest developments' to the amendments to the 1959 personal status law that were approved by the Iraqi Parliament on Tuesday.

"In this regard, the United Nations in Iraq underscores the importance of ensuring that legal reforms align with Iraq's international human rights commitments, particularly in relation to safeguarding the rights and well-being of women and children," read the statement released on Friday by UNAMI on X.

The Iraqi Parliament on Tuesday voted to approve the controversial amendments to the Personal Status Law No. 188 of 1959.

The amendment would allow couples to choose their religious sect — Shiite or Sunni — when entering into a marriage contract. If the couple cannot agree on a sect, the husband's sect would be applied. Critics argue that this provision could undermine civil rights, particularly for women and girls.

The UN said “we have engaged extensively with the relevant Iraqi stakeholders and emphasized the need for a constructive and inclusive dialogue on this matter. We will continue our efforts in this direction.”

Human Rights Watch has condemned the proposed changes as a severe regression for women's and girls' rights in Iraq.

Separately, the head of the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq and the world, Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako called for alignment with international laws and human rights standards, adding that the amendments would "lead to disintegration and weaken the national fabric,”.

A poll by the Iraq Polling Team (IPT) revealed strong public opposition to the proposed amendments to Iraq's Personal Status Law. 

Out of over 61,000 participants, more than 70 percent opposed the changes, with only 23.8 percent in favor. 

The amendments, primarily supported by male Shiite MPs, is justified by its proponents as a measure to “protect” young girls and reduce divorce rates, but it has faced backlash for potentially legalizing child marriage.

The UN reaffirmed their "steadfast support for Iraq in its aspirations toward a state governed by the rule of law and respect for human rights."