But despite the repeated promises made by Iraqi security officials, the people and parties who threaten or kill journalists are not brought to justice. On the contrary, there are many examples of impunity. Journalists have united to try to pressure political parties into helping, but reporters and editors still fear the possibility of falling victim to kidnapping and terrorist attacks.
Imad al-Abadi, a well-known show host in Iraq who survived a 2009 assassination attempt in Baghdad, told Al-Monitor, "Iraqi journalists still face many risks. Iraq is not a safe environment for journalists. We fear the [future] … in light of armed groups and gangs targeting freedom of expression."
Since 2003, not a year has gone by without Iraqi journalists being killed, which reflects the absence of legal and field protection from government authorities.
Shawqi's kidnapping was seen as a threat to journalism and to freedom of opinion and expression: Don't criticize armed groups.
Iraq can be a dangerous place for anyone, but journalists face the added threat of being kidnapped or killed at any given moment simply for being journalists. Yet, they continue to tell the stories of other people's lives, until it is time for someone to tell theirs.
(Photo credit: Josh Hallett)
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