Iraqi Media Regulator Suspends Five Programs and Issues 18 Bans in Six Months

BAGHDAD, Iraq — The Association for the Defense of Press Freedom in Iraq reported that the Communications and Media Commission suspended five political television programs between December 1 and May 31. During the same period, the commission issued warnings to two Arab media outlets and imposed financial penalties on three others. In addition to the suspensions and fines, the commission issued 18 decisions restricting or prohibiting specific media figures from appearing on broadcasts. The association characterized these regulatory actions as violations of the Iraqi constitution. The report further alleged that the executive head of the commission has exercised unilateral authority to shut down programs, issue suspensions, and levy fines. The association stated that a forthcoming report will provide detailed documentation regarding the legal and constitutional issues surrounding these regulatory practices.