Speaker Dr. Rewaz Faiq's statement on International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, I express with frankness my view on the situation for journalists in Kurdistan, Iraq and the world. It is deeply concerning that year after year the killings, crimes and acts of terrorism perpetrated against journalists are increasing, according to statistics from the International Federation of Journalists and organizations for human rights and freedom of expression.

Violations in the form of torture, intimidation and kidnapping create an unsafe and unstable environment for journalism. Such threats and intimidation are shameful and unjust. We support all who advocate for human rights and freedom of expression and those who are at the forefront of publishing the truth for the sake of achieving prosperity and human dignity.

I will make every effort for freedom of expression and the noble profession of journalism, to lift the limits to freedom.

I take this opportunity to once again ask the beloved citizens of Kurdistan to exercise self-control in the face of virulent and unhealthy social media campaigns, which are a tool for creating chaos and destroying societal peace, and which undermine the traditions, ethics, and pride of our nation.

We honour all who died in striving to reveal the truth.

Dr. Rewaz Faiq

Speaker of Kurdistan parliament

2 November 2021