Accessibility links

Breaking News

Iran's Nobel Peace Laureate Criticizes Polygamy Bill


Shirin Ebadi
Iranian activist and lawyer Shirin Ebadi has criticized a government bill that would ease polygamy laws for Iranian men, AFP reported. Ebadi said the so-called "family protection bill" would bring "moral corruption" to Iranian society.

The bill, due to be discussed soon in the Iranian parliament, would eliminate the need for the consent of a man's first wife if he decides to marry another spouse. Instead, the bill would require men to provide a judicial permit for a second marriage that confirms they can provide financially for the new wife and that both wives will be treated equally.

But Ebadi said that these conditions were not enough, describing the bill as "tyranny," not only against women but also against men. The law implies that "if you have become rich overnight, no matter how, you can legalize your desires," she said. "Isn't it an insult to men and wouldn't it shake the foundation of family?"

About This Blog

"Watchdog" is a blog with a singular mission -- to monitor the latest developments concerning human rights, civil society, and press freedom. We'll pay particular attention to reports concerning countries in RFE/RL's broadcast region.

Subscribe

Latest Posts

Journalists In Trouble

RFE/RL journalists take risks, face threats, and make sacrifices every day in an effort to gather the news. Our "Journalists In Trouble" page recognizes their courage and conviction, and documents the high price that many have paid simply for doing their jobs. More

XS
SM
MD
LG