Baghdad, Iraq, 28 April 2016 - The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) expresses concern over the decision by the Iraqi Communications and Media Commission ordering the closure of the offices of the Al Jazeera satellite news network in Baghdad.
While fully respecting the prerogatives of the Commission, at times of crisis a free media – even if opinions are contested, rejected or disliked – becomes even more essential to safeguard the public interest and protect democracy.
UNAMI expresses its expectation that the amendment of this decision will be made possible at the earliest convenience.