Baghdad, Iraq - April 22, 2024

The Iraqi Parliament passed the law against prostitution, which includes punishing homosexual relations and transgender expressions. From now on they may receive sentences of up to 15 years in prison.

The Legislative noted that the amendments were approved "to preserve moral decency in Iraqi society from the calls for homosexuality that have invaded the world" and beacause of "the absence of legislation in Iraq that will deter homosexual acts and those who promote them".

The amendments to the law against prostitution, in force since 1988, were approved in a session attended by 170 of the 329 deputies who make up the Iraqi Chamber.

This footage illustrates daily routine of Baghdad residents and various celebrations after Iraq’s triumph over Indonesia in the Asian Cup (15 January 2024).