Last week the Guardian reported two cases in which Iraqi reporters had allegedly been assaulted while attempting to cover the aftermath of explosions in Iraq. Government sensitivity about security has increased markedly in the wake of bombings since August that destroyed three ministries and damaged the Baghdad governorate building, during a time when the government was trying to persuade Iraqis of security gains ahead of a general election in January.
Iraq’s communications ministry said last week that all 58 radio and television networks operating in Iraq would have to pay an annual fee for using a satellite and apply for licenses, a move that was described as an “overdue step to regulate the media industry.”
However, the moves were set against a backdrop of increasing resentment towards criticism and scrutiny by media on how public money is spent. Iraqi journalists are reluctant to cover corruption cases and have been warned to tread carefully while covering the actions and claims of extremist groups. Satire is discouraged, along with any coverage that is likely to embarrass any member of the power base.
“There are well known red lines in this society, such as making a chieftain look like a pauper,” the newspaper editor said. “He will waste no time in turning the full weight of his militia, his media empire and now his lawyers on to anyone who tries.”
Despite the setbacks, reporters have access to government announcements and news that ministers want reported. Audiences with officials are regularly granted and some critical questioning is allowed, particularly about the delivery of essential services. The foreign press maintains bureaus in Baghdad, even with attention steadily shifting to the world’s other flashpoints and satellite channels bring a plurality of views to Iraqi living rooms that was unheard of six years ago.
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