Iraq: Activists plan to protest at Tahrir Square in Baghdad from 17:00 Sept. 7

Activists plan to demonstrate at Tahrir Square in Baghdad from 17:00 Sept. 7 against proposed changes to the country's Personal Status Law. As part of the amendments, matters relating to family law, including marriages, would be referred to Shariah courts, where clerics will decide based on their interpretation of religious law. Protesters claim that the legislation will harm the status of women and lead to more child marriages, particularly among the Shi'a Muslim community. Hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely in the affected area the evening of Sept. 7. Clashes between police and protesters are possible, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.