Press Releases

8-04-2025, 12:15

The Government Must Involve Civil Society in the Investigation of the Death of Bashir Khalid

The Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights is following with deep concern the case of the death of engineer Bashir Khalid, who was subjected to torture during his detention at Hattin Police Station in Baghdad. The Observatory affirms that this incident is neither isolated nor exceptional, but rather a serious reflection of the nature of detention facilities in Iraq, which have, in many cases, become fertile environments for torture, neglect, and the systematic violation of human rights.

14-03-2025, 15:23

The government should review firearm licensing regulations

The Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights urges Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani's government to take decisive and immediate measures to curb this chaos by enforcing stricter firearm licensing regulations, revoking permits that do not meet rigorous criteria, and launching a comprehensive national campaign to disarm individuals and unauthorized groups, ensuring that weapons are exclusively controlled by official state institutions. Additionally, it calls for an independent judicial system capable of holding perpetrators accountable, rather than relying on tribal settlements that perpetuate a culture of impunity and reinforce the dominance of force over justice.

10-02-2025, 00:01

Statement on Repression and Violations Against Protesters in the Kurdistan Region

The Coalition for the Defense of Freedom of Expression, sponsored by the Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights, strongly condemns the systematic repression exercised by the authorities of the Kurdistan Region against protesting teachers and employees in Sulaymaniyah. It also vehemently denounces the violent assaults and the demonization of the peaceful movement, which is advocating for legitimate rights related to salaries and the deteriorating living conditions.

26-01-2025, 01:13

Iraqi Parliament: Deals at the Expense of Human Rights

Laws are meant to protect people and uphold their dignity, not to make their lives more complicated or insecure. In their current forms, these two laws pose significant risks to human rights and threaten to deepen violations rather than serve as tools for justice. Passing such legislation reflects a lack of humanitarian vision among political forces seeking immediate gains without considering future consequences.

26-10-2024, 13:07

Lawsuit Filed Against Journalist for Freedom of Expression

Press freedom is a cornerstone of any democratic system, and Iraqi authorities must recognize the vital role that journalists play in shaping public opinion and monitoring corruption and governance. When this group faces legal repercussions for the opinions of its members, advancing toward a democratic state that respects its citizens’ rights becomes increasingly challenging.

3-09-2024, 11:30

PM Al- Sudani Must Investigate the Assaults on Protesters in Baghdad

The Freedom of Expression Coalition strongly condemns this blatant violation of human rights, considering it a clear infringement on the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly—rights that are enshrined in Article 38 of the Iraqi Constitution and are protected under international standards to which Iraq is obligated. The Coalition calls for an immediate and independent investigation into these incidents and demands that those responsible for these violations be held accountable. Failure to address this impunity will inevitably lead to further abuses.

8-08-2024, 08:21

Al-Kadhimi Files a Lawsuit Against a Journalist and Demands Financial Compensation

After leaving the court, Qais Hasan wrote: “As I left the court hearing and returned home exhausted, I asked myself why Al-Kadhimi chose to sue me. Did he dare to file a lawsuit against any of the powerful figures? Why was I singled out? And why didn’t any of the others I mentioned in my posts take legal action?” He added, “My posts about Al-Kadhimi and the prime ministers were as harsh as our reality. My words targeted officials and public figures, not individuals, because of the immense pain and failure we endure. Resorting to the law is undoubtedly a civilized act, and it is necessary for those who want to see a ‘respectable’ state".

24-07-2024, 08:57

Notes on the Proposals to Amend the Personal Status Law

The stipulation of Paragraph (A) of Article One of the amendment, which refers to “every Iraqi man and woman,” needs careful clarification in order to ensure that there are no judicial or legislative ambiguities that could be unfairly applied to individuals of other than the stipulated sects.

5-04-2024, 14:30

The Council of Representatives is Seeking to Undermine Freedoms through the Draft Law on the “FEPD"

For 13 years, civil society has been fighting to prevent the enforcement of this law in its current form. Several organizations have submitted their observations and proposals, working closely with parliamentary committees to refine the draft in alignment with the Iraqi Constitution and universal principles of human rights. However, despite these efforts, many political forces persist in wielding the law as a means of exerting pressure on the Iraqi people.Top of Form