The Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations in Iraq, Jeanine Plasschaert, reaffirmed today, Wednesday, the commitment of the United Nations to support Iraqis in defending freedom of expression.
Plasschaert said in a statement On World Press Freedom Day “Freedom of expression is fundamental to the functioning of all democratic societies, and free and independent media promote a healthy exchange of ideas and opinions, as they not only increase transparency, but are also an important tool for informing authorities and leaders when their policies are not having the intended effect, in order to enable organizations to adapt and thus thrive.”
She stressed, “The United Nations will continue to document, throughout Iraq, ongoing cases of harassment and intimidation, as well as cases of reprisals, whether by legal means or violence, against those who exercise their right to freedom of expression.”
She added, “The United Nations remains committed to supporting Iraqis in defending freedom of expression and other basic rights.”
Source: National Iraqi News Agency