Iraq Bans Use of 'Homosexuality' and 'Gender' in Media and Social Networks: CNN

The Iraqi Communications and Media Commission announced on Tuesday a ban on the use of the words 'homosexuality' and 'gender' in media and social networks. The regulatory body requires that the term 'sexual deviation' be used instead of 'homosexuality.' This was reported by CNN.

The Iraqi government's press service stated that the regulator's decision still requires final approval.

While there is no absolute ban on homosexuality in Iraq, experts indicate that vaguely defined articles in the criminal code regarding violations of moral standards are sometimes used to persecute members of the LGBTQ community.