2026-05-31T16:48:32+00:00
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Shafaq News- Baghdad
Iraq’s
Communications and Media Commission (CMC) suspended five political television
programs, fined three media outlets, warned two Arab broadcasters, and
restricted 18 media figures between Dec. 1 and May 31, Iraqi Association for
Defending Press Freedom stated on Sunday.
It described the
measures as “unconstitutional,” criticizing CMC’s head for “granting himself
powers to issue suspension, blocking, and financial penalty decisions.” The
Associaiton argued that such authorities are not included in Order No. 65,
which regulates the commission’s work.
The association also
called on Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi and parliament to strengthen protections
for press freedom by ensuring the CMC’s independence from political influence,
appointing media professionals to its leadership positions, and passing legislation
that guarantees its neutrality.
Last month, the
Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights warned of a rise in violations against
journalists, including arrests, assaults, kidnappings, and restrictions on
media coverage, citing growing pressure on press freedom and a lack of
accountability for abuses.
Iraq ranked 162nd in
the 2026 Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, placing it
alongside Sudan and Yemen at the bottom of the global ranking.
The New era of control: Can Iraq’s free press survive its politically-tainted rulers?