UNAMI Human Rights Office organizes a Dialogue on Freedom of Expression and the Protection of Journalists in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Erbil, 7 April 2025 – The Human Rights Office of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) organized a Dialogue on Freedom of Expression and the Protection of Journalists in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The event was attended by representatives of journalists’ organizations, media regulatory bodies, civil society, and the Independent Human Rights Commission-KRI. Participants discussed key concerns, issues and challenges facing journalists and media workers and limitations on their ability to perform their professional responsibilities without undue restrictions on the right to freedom of expression. 

The effective implementation of the ‘Press Law in the Kurdistan Region’ (Law No 35 of 2007) and the role of the judiciary in protecting journalists from restrictions such as preventing media coverage, arrests and detentions, and due process of the law featured as a key measure to enhance the protection of freedom of expression in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. 

Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening dialogue among key stakeholders including security forces to promote respect for freedom of expression and enhance the protection for journalists and media workers, including legislative measures, to strengthen the civic and democratic space in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.