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May 04, 2025 – Iraq –
As the world marks World Press Freedom Day, the situation in Iraq paints a troubling picture of a profession under threat. Ranked 169th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Press Freedom Index, Iraq has become one of the most perilous places for journalists, especially those investigating corruption, political power, and armed groups.
The risks Iraqi journalists face are many: physical violence, online harassment, legal intimidation, and sometimes exile. Many reporters are forced to work anonymously or flee the country entirely, especially when covering sensitive topics like militia operations or government corruption. This climate of fear has significantly weakened investigative journalism, once a vital pillar of accountability in Iraq.
A major challenge lies in the politicization of the media. Many outlets are linked to political parties or influential figures, limiting editorial independence and increasing pressure on journalists to align with certain narratives. The lack of neutral platforms stifles diverse voices and discourages critical reporting.
Adding to this hostile environment is the misuse of outdated laws that restrict freedom of expression. Journalists can be arrested or prosecuted on vague charges like defamation or “undermining the state,” and these legal threats are often used to silence dissent rather than protect public interest.
The decline in media freedom is not only a threat to journalists but also to Iraqi society at large. When reporters cannot safely report the truth, corruption goes unchecked, abuses remain hidden, and democratic progress stalls. Despite these immense challenges, many Iraqi journalists continue their work with remarkable courage, often at great personal risk.
Their resilience highlights the urgent need for reforms that protect press freedom and create a safe environment for independent reporting. The international community must also play a role in supporting Iraq’s media workers because, without a free press, there can be no true democracy.
Reference –
https://shafaq.com/en/Report/Silenced-voices-The-treacherous-reality-for-journalists-in-Iraq
Investigative Journalism in Iraq Was Never Easy. Now It’s Almost Impossible
https://shafaq.com/en/Report/Press-freedom-in-Iraq-Challenges-and-threats-on-World-Press-Freedom-Day
