New agreement to boost safety of Iraqi journalists
A new deal between Iraqi security forces and journalists is set to improve their tense relationship
The agreement will regulate the relationship between the country’s security forces and journalists through a memorandum of understanding. It was signed in Baghdad on 1 April.
Iraq remains one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. The deal seeks to improve their safety through a joint code of conduct and strengthened mutual understanding of the rights and responsibilities of journalists and police.
A similar deal was signed in Iraqi’s semi-autonomous Kurdistan region in March. Both agreements were facilitated by International Media Support as part of its work under the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
Like the agreement in Iraqi Kurdistan, security forces will take part in workshops on the rights of journalists and how to best provide them with protection. The deal will also see journalists trained in areas such as press legislation and professional ethics.
A sign of commitment
The deal is step forward for protecting journalists and the media in Iraq, said Jesper Højberg, IMS’ Executive Director, emphasising how the it represents a core part of IMS’ approach to safety.
“This agreement is an achievement in institutionalising the safety of journalists in Iraq, and it shows commitment from the Iraqi authorities and the media community,” said Jesper Højberg.
A spokesperson for Iraq’s Council of Ministers praised the initiative, saying that it was a “good step towards securing a peaceful environment” in the meeting between security forces and journalists.
Mrs Iradah Jubouri from the National Union of Iraqi journalists also commended the deal, saying that it marked the beginning of a new cooperation that would bridge the gaps between the two groups.
Implementation
For the deal to be effective, it will require ongoing follow-up over the coming years, said IMS’ Osama Al-Habahbeh, Programme Manager for Iraq.
“The commitment from both the media community and authorities requires continuous follow-up. International Media Support will in collaboration with national stakeholders and international organisations work to make sure that the deal is implemented to its fullest extent.”
The agreement comes after months of collaboration between numerous national and international actors.
Representatives of the Iraqi police, the Ministry of Interior, Iraq’s Communication and Media Commission, the Supreme Court, members of parliament, and a range of civil society organisations and media groups attended the conference in Baghdad where the agreement was signed. Representatives from the Swedish Embassy were also present to show international support to the agreement.
