Iraqi Human Rights Observatory warns of warrantless WhatsApp surveillance

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Iraqi Observatory for Human Rights said it had received credible information that some security bodies are monitoring citizens’ WhatsApp accounts without judicial authorization. The group said any surveillance conducted outside a court order violates Iraq’s constitution and the country’s international obligations. The observatory noted that the practice is not confined to journalists and activists, and that unlawful monitoring is not limited to specific groups. It added that it has not confirmed an incident so far, but said warning the public ahead of potential abuse falls within its mandate. The organization cited Article 40 of the Iraqi Constitution, which guarantees freedom of communication and restricts surveillance to cases authorized by the judiciary. It said the courts alone can balance security needs with citizens’ right to privacy. The observatory called on the Supreme Judicial Council to examine relevant complaints, urged the government to issue binding instructions to all bodies, and asked parliament to enact personal data protection legislation without delay. It did not name the security units allegedly involved or provide further details, and no further information was immediately available.