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Iraq: Religious Freedom

Question for Foreign and Commonwealth Office

UIN HL5243, tabled on 6 February 2017

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what representations they have made to the government of Iraq to repeal legislation that forces children of parents who convert to Islam automatically to become Muslim.

Answered on

20 February 2017

​We have concerns with Article 26 of the National Identity Card Law as it limits an individual’s freedom of religion. The President of Iraq objected to the clause and although the law was signed, the clause has been referred back to the Council of Representatives for reconsideration, but so far no action has been taken by the Council. We have made clear our concerns to the Government of Iraq. We are working alongside Non-Governmental Organisations, such as the Iraqi Council for Interfaith Dialogue, to continue to promote freedom of religion and belief in Iraq.

Answered by

Foreign and Commonwealth Office