Sudani praises Iraqi journalists as press freedom rankings decline

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani praised the work and sacrifices of Iraqi journalists on World Press Freedom Day, reaffirming his government’s support for a free press within Iraq’s democratic framework.

“On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the tremendous sacrifices, responsible stances, and vital contributions made by Iraqi journalists in their pursuit of truth and in upholding the principles of a free press,” Sudani said in a statement.

His remarks come as Iraq fell 14 places in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders, ranking 155th out of 180 countries.

The Press Freedom Advocacy Association in Iraq documented 457 violations against journalists and media outlets between Jan. 1 and Oct. 2, 2024. These included killings, arbitrary arrests, armed attacks, physical assaults, threats, lawsuits, and restrictions on media operations.

Baghdad recorded the highest number of violations, with 105 cases, underscoring the increasing challenges facing journalists in the capital.

Al-Sudani in a statement:

On World Press Freedom Day, we honor the tremendous sacrifices, responsible stances, and vital contributions made by Iraqi journalists in their pursuit of truth and in upholding the principles of a free press.

As we reaffirm our support for all those working in journalism, we take pride in the fact that Iraq—under its democratic system—guarantees freedom of expression for media institutions and professionals. At the same time, we hope that our press will continue to uphold objectivity and professionalism, serving as a true voice for the concerns and aspirations of the people.