Latest news with #IraqiJournalistsSyndicate
Shafaq News
4 days ago
- General
- Shafaq News
Global media converges on Karbala for Ashura coverage
Shafaq News – Karbala Over 600 media outlets from around the world are covering this year's Muharram rituals in Karbala, marking one of the most extensive press operations the holy city has witnessed, according to the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate's Karbala branch. Branch chief Hussein al-Shammari told Shafaq News Agency on Sunday that the coverage spans news agencies, newspapers, satellite channels, professional photographers, and content creators from various countries. He confirmed that more than 30 fixed and mobile satellite news gathering (SNG) units are currently operating across the city, broadcasting live coverage of the religious ceremonies—from the flag-changing ritual at the Imam Hussein Shrine through to Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram. Al-Shammari added that over 800 journalists are participating in the coverage, representing local, regional, and international media—highlighting the religious, cultural, and journalistic significance of the occasion. He noted that the Imam Hussein and al-Abbas Shrines' authorities have provided extensive support for the media, including high-speed internet, meal services, designated press platforms, and official ID badges to facilitate journalist access within the heavily visited Old City. Al-Shammari also praised the security forces for ensuring a safe and efficient environment for reporters and media crews working in Karbala during this critical period. Ashura, one of the most sacred days in the Shiite Islamic calendar, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. The day holds deep spiritual and political resonance for millions of Shiite Muslims worldwide.
Shafaq News
04-05-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Silenced voices: The treacherous reality for journalists in Iraq
Shafaq News/ While the world commemorates World Press Freedom Day on May 3, journalists in Iraq continue to navigate a treacherous media landscape marred by threats, legal constraints, and violence. Despite a modest improvement in the country's international press freedom ranking, local journalists say conditions on the ground remain grim, citing persistent assaults, censorship, and the absence of protective legislation. "Freedom of the press is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of democracy and justice," Ahmad Al-Madani, legal representative of the Iraqi Journalists Syndicate, told Shafaq News, emphasizing that constraints on free speech directly undermine human dignity and professional integrity. Al-Madani warned that journalists in Iraq face some of the most severe forms of repression. "Anyone criticizing the performance of powerful political actors is subject to intimidation, legal threats, or even assassination. History is rife with such cases.' He urged Iraqi authorities to overhaul repressive media laws and enact reforms that reflect the evolving landscape of journalism. Legacy of Violence and Impunity Since the 2003 US-led invasion, Iraqi journalism has faced relentless instability. "The press has been under siege — from US forces to sectarian factions and political elites," said Hadi Jalu Mar'i, head of the Iraqi Observatory for Press Freedoms. Mar'i argued to Shafaq News that while attacks have evolved, they remain deeply rooted in institutional weakness and societal misunderstanding of journalism. "We still see beatings, equipment confiscation, and media bans at public events. There is no legal deterrent, and journalists continue to be sued or silenced." Over 500 journalists, he added, have been killed since 2003, with dozens more forced to flee the country. "The trauma is lasting, yet many journalists remain committed to telling the truth." On the Front Lines Field reporter Shurooq Al-Ghanem highlighted a growing hostility from both officials and civilians. "Getting access to public information is a battle. If a citizen disagrees with a media outlet's line, they direct anger at the reporter — not the institution." She cautioned that unqualified individuals posing as journalists have harmed the profession's credibility. "The flood of impostors makes it harder for legitimate journalists to do their jobs." Gendered and Digital Threats Fadel Al-Gharawi, head of the Strategic Center for Human Rights in Iraq, emphasized that women journalists face a different set of dangers. "Female reporters are often subjected to harassment, threats, and blackmail—especially via digital platforms—causing deep psychological and societal consequences," he told Shafaq News. Voice for Reform Zainab Rabea, head of the Nakheel Center for Press Freedoms, told our agency that the situation remains deeply concerning. "Press freedom in Iraq continues to face serious challenges. Judicial summons, security pressure, and blocked coverage persist, all in the absence of a safe and enabling environment." She called for a stronger legal and institutional framework to support the profession. "We must provide a legal and institutional environment that guarantees freedom of expression, protects free speech, and rewards professionalism instead of suppressing or intimidating it." Grim Toll According to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Iraq ranks 155th out of 180 countries — an improvement from 169 in 2024, but still among the world's most dangerous environments for journalists. "Iraq has the highest journalist death toll globally over the past three decades," said Al-Gharawi, citing more than 340 journalists killed in the country, out of 2,660 deaths worldwide during the same period. Al-Gharawi told Shafaq News that male journalists face higher physical risks due to field assignments, while women endure online abuse and threats. Baghdad remains the epicenter of violations, followed by Basra, Dhi Qar, Nineveh, Kirkuk, and Diyala. The Kurdistan Region has also seen a rise in press restrictions in recent years. Legal Gaps Al-Gharawi called for the urgent passage of the long-delayed Right to Access Information Law, alongside a broader legislative framework to protect journalists. "We need stronger legal safeguards, enforcement mechanisms, and an end to impunity for crimes against media professionals.' He also stressed the importance of training programs, institutional support, and the empowerment of independent media. "Press freedom is a national obligation. If we fail to protect it, we compromise democracy itself." Globally, RSF's 2025 index warns of a severe decline in press freedom amid economic crises, state censorship, and concentrated media ownership. Of 180 countries surveyed, news outlets in 160 face financial hardship, with implications for editorial independence. The report noted rising journalist exile rates and record-low global press freedom scores. Countries like Nicaragua, Belarus, Iran, and Afghanistan have seen mass journalist flight. Even traditionally free media environments, such as New Zealand and South Africa, face newsroom closures.
