The Iraqi press celebrated its 155th anniversary on Saturday amid calls for greater protection for journalists and a remembrance of those who have been killed over the years.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani extended his congratulations to Iraqi journalists, emphasizing the essential role of the media in the democratic and constitutional process.

"We congratulate Iraqi journalists on the 155th anniversary of Iraqi journalism and reaffirm our support for the crucial role of the press in advancing democracy and serving the people's right to fair information," al-Sudani stated on the platform X.

Fadhil al-Gharawi, head of the Strategic Center for Human Rights in Iraq, reported that hundreds of violations against journalists have been documented in the past three years.

These violations include arbitrary dismissal, legal prosecution, intimidation, and the destruction of equipment. 

Al-Gharawi noted that Iraq ranks 169th globally and 12th in the Arab world for press freedom in 2024, a drop from 167th in 2023. "Iraq holds the highest number of journalist fatalities worldwide, with 470 deaths," he added.

Labor and Social Affairs Minister Ahmed al-Asadi called on all media institutions to register their journalists under the Social Security Law to provide necessary social protection. 

"On the 155th anniversary of Iraqi journalism, we extend warm congratulations to all journalists. Your dedicated efforts build the pillars of free and responsible media," al-Asadi said. 

He highlighted the need for a safe and sustainable working environment for journalists, honoring their contributions to truth and freedom of expression.

Al-Asadi stressed that registering journalists under the Social Security Law would ensure their rights and welfare, enhancing their ability to perform their duties securely.
 
"We urge all media institutions to fulfill this national and humanitarian duty," he stated, "and to provide a safe and supportive environment for journalists, recognizing their efforts and sacrifices in conveying the truth and defending freedom of expression."

Al-Gharawi’s statistics underscore the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in Iraq. He detailed that Iraq’s press freedom score dropped from 32.9 in 2023 to 25.4 in 2024. 

The drop reflects the rising threats and hostilities journalists face in the country.