Iraq Media

From 1969-2003, media was severely limited under Saddam Hussein’s Baathist regime. Only one news network, Iraqi News Agency, functioned as the government TV channel. An additional five daily newspapers and four radio stations provided censored information to the Iraqi people. Any other media was barred and banned. Satellite dishes were illegal, and the breaking of any of limited press rules meant imprisonment, torture or death. Many journalists defected as a result and went into hiding during these years.

After 2003

After the Iraq War in April of 2003, the laws were revoked and journalists were allowed to report news as they saw it for the first time. Americans made it their agenda to establish a free press, and the Iraqi citizens came alongside them with eagerness. They were eager to share ideas.

With zero private news outlets to start, there were over 200 within just a few months. CNN, Al-Jazeera and dozens of other publications sprouted up. Western partners were traininig journalists each day, the enthusiasm was so strong.

The main opponent to the Iraqi News Agency in 2003 was “Aswat al-Iraq.” This news outlet is supported by  the United States, Turkey, Germany, Russian Federation, Britain, People’s Republic of china and the United Nations, causing it to gain immediate traction and respect.