International organizations concerned with journalistic freedoms have always noted that Iraq is one of the most dangerous countries for journalists, with more than 400 killed since 2003. That's an average of 31 per year.
Walid Ibrahim, director of Al-Jazeera's office in Iraq, spoke with Al-Monitor about the problem.
"The recent incidents in which journalists were victims are proof that journalists are still threatened by many parties, most notably militias, which have today gained a political and government cover," Ibrahim said, referring to a recently passed law granting official status to the controversial Popular Mobilization Units, a grouping of militias accused of human rights violations.
He added, "These groups do not tolerate being criticized and do not like journalists who refuse to deal with them and [who] believe the existence of such groups contradicts the principles of a civilized society and is contrary to the foundations of true democracy."
Journalists in Iraq face significant risks, especially those who work in the field and write articles that displease the armed groups trying to extend their influence in Iraq. However, the groups are rarely held accountable for their actions against journalists.
Iraq has a law on journalists’ rights, but many in the business oppose it because they believe it was passed for political purposes and does not actually serve journalism.
Saad Maan, a spokesman for the Iraqi Interior Ministry, told Al-Monitor, "We support journalists and we call on them to continue to practice their profession normally. We promise to provide them with protection and to hold accountable all those who violate their rights."
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