Iraq sets up commission to monitor hate speech and sectarian content

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Security Media Institution announced the formation of a dedicated commission to monitor media content containing hate speech and sectarian or ethnic incitement. According to the institution, the commission was established on the directive of the prime minister, who also serves as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The commission's mandate, as described by the institution, is to protect social cohesion, reinforce stability and track content deemed a threat to security. It will be chaired by the head of the Security Media Institution, with representatives from the Interior Ministry, the Iraqi National Intelligence Service, the National Security Service and the Information Operations Center. Specialists from various security and technical directorates will also support its work. The institution said the commission will identify inciting material and take the necessary legal action within the established framework. No further details on the commission's operational scope or timeline were immediately available.