A recent report on X disclosed that Iraq is considering lowering the age of sexual consent from 18 to 9, a move that would legally permit men to marry minors. This alarming news has sparked widespread condemnation, but an insensitive comment added fuel to the outrage. The comment stated, “R. Kelly should have waited a little longer,” implying that the singer, known for exploiting minors, could have operated legally if he had waited for such a law change.
Such a comment trivializes both the proposed law’s dangers and the lifelong trauma child exploitation inflicts on victims. Joking about these issues minimizes the very real harm and risks children face under such laws. Rather than using this troubling development for tasteless humor, it’s crucial to recognize the urgency of protecting children’s rights globally, ensuring that laws prioritize their safety and well-being.
Links
https://x.com/naija_pr/status/1855001599740989950