Freedom of Speech

3-12-2025, 22:39

Statement by the Coalition for the Defense of Freedom of Expression on the State of Freedoms in Iraq

Over the past months, our Coalition has observed with deep concern an increasing reliance on laws inherited from previous eras, particularly provisions of the Penal Code enacted during the regime of Saddam Hussein, which are now being used as tools to pursue activists, journalists, content creators, and citizens expressing their opinions. These provisions, originally designed to suppress and intimidate society, must not be employed in today’s Iraq—an Iraq that believes in the Constitution, justice, and fundamental rights.

2-11-2025, 10:17

Impunity in Iraq: A Systemic Failure Undermining Press Freedom and the Rule of Law

IOHR affirms that the persistent absence of justice not only violates the right to freedom of expression, but also weakens public trust in state institutions, erodes civic space, and threatens Iraq’s already fragile democratic environment.

18-10-2025, 12:45

Statement by the Alliance for Freedom of Expression in Iraq (AEFI)

The Coalition for the Defense of Freedom of Expression in Iraq, sponsored by the Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights (IOHR), strongly condemns the recent actions of the Iraqi Media and Communications Commission (CMC), particularly its attempts to impose censorship on independent media institutions and its reported agreements with the digital platforms TikTok and Meta (Facebook and Instagram) to restrict or block the accounts of journalists and bloggers.

1-10-2025, 19:04

SIX YEARS SINCE OCTOBER PROTESTS, STILL SEARCHING FOR THE "SNIPER"

IOHR further emphasizes that the financial compensation given to some families of the martyrs does not amount to real justice. Fair reparation must be comprehensive—covering medical and psychological care for the injured and survivors, and concrete measures to reintegrate them into society, with guarantees of non-repetition. Compensation cannot be a substitute for justice, but only a complement to it.

2-08-2025, 11:33

Iraqi CoR Must Not Lead Iraq into a New Era of Dictatorship

The Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights (IOHR) expresses deep concern over the Iraqi Council of Representatives’ decision to include the draft Law on "Freedom of Expression and Peaceful Assembly" on the agenda of today's session, in preparation for a potential vote. IOHR affirms that passing the law in its current form would represent a serious regression from Iraq’s constitutional obligations and a flagrant violation of international human rights standards to which Iraq is legally bound through treaties and conventions.

26-10-2024, 13:07

Lawsuit Filed Against Journalist for Freedom of Expression

Press freedom is a cornerstone of any democratic system, and Iraqi authorities must recognize the vital role that journalists play in shaping public opinion and monitoring corruption and governance. When this group faces legal repercussions for the opinions of its members, advancing toward a democratic state that respects its citizens’ rights becomes increasingly challenging.

1-10-2024, 22:29

"TISHREEN" Protests: VICTIMS WITHOUT JUSTICE PERPETRATORS UNPUNISHED

The Iraqi government must take urgent steps to end the phenomenon of impunity and ensure that all those involved in the crimes committed against the protesters are pursued, whether they are members of the security forces or other entities.

3-09-2024, 11:30

PM Al- Sudani Must Investigate the Assaults on Protesters in Baghdad

The Freedom of Expression Coalition strongly condemns this blatant violation of human rights, considering it a clear infringement on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly—rights that are enshrined in Article 38 of the Iraqi Constitution and are protected under international standards to which Iraq is obligated. The Coalition calls for an immediate and independent investigation into these incidents and demands that those responsible for these violations be held accountable. Failure to address this impunity will inevitably lead to further abuses.

8-08-2024, 08:21

Al-Kadhimi Files a Lawsuit Against a Journalist and Demands Financial Compensation

After leaving the court, Qais Hasan wrote: “As I left the court hearing and returned home exhausted, I asked myself why Al-Kadhimi chose to sue me. Did he dare to file a lawsuit against any of the powerful figures? Why was I singled out? And why didn’t any of the others I mentioned in my posts take legal action?” He added, “My posts about Al-Kadhimi and the prime ministers were as harsh as our reality. My words targeted officials and public figures, not individuals, because of the immense pain and failure we endure. Resorting to the law is undoubtedly a civilized act, and it is necessary for those who want to see a ‘respectable’ state".