Iraqi Civil Society Stops Bill Restricting Free Speech

On May 13, 2017, Iraqi Parliamentarians delayed the passage of a draft of the Law on Freedom of Expression, Assembly, and Peaceful Demonstration after citizens, civil society organizations, and trade and labor unions protested the proposed legislation. Through constructive dialogue, the coalition persuaded Members of Parliament to indefinitely postpone a vote on the bill, which was originally slated to take place on May 15, 2017. The legislation would have criminalized public criticism of religious figures or symbols and sentenced offenders to a large fine of one million to ten million Dinars ($US 853-$US 8,533), as well as a minimum of one year in prison.

Iraq’s Council of Ministers approved a version of the bill in May 2011, but the draft was criticized for its use of vague language. The bill also encountered pushback from civil society because of the constraints it would have placed on freedom of speech, which is guaranteed by the Iraqi Constitution. Additionally, the bill could empower authorities to target journalists and crackdown on freedom of expression. The World Movement for Democracy joins the Gulf Center for Human Rights in calling upon the Iraqi government to adhere to Article 38 of its Constitution, which protects freedom of expression, assembly and peaceful demonstration.