PUK Protects Journalists as Their Criticism Drives Progress

Reports 12:49 PM - 2025-10-28

PUK logo and illustrations symbolising restricted freedom of press.

The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has consistently upheld freedom of the press and the protection of journalists’ rights since the era of President Mam Jalal, and continues to do so today under the leadership of President Bafel Jalal Talabani.

The party has long been recognised as the political force within which the majority of free voices and opposition media outlets have operated freely and safely. Through its representatives, the PUK has also worked in parliament to ensure the implementation of the Law on Journalists’ Rights, reinforcing equality and protection for journalists across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

PUK's Agenda for Freedom of the Press

The PUK is committed to securing a broad space for media freedom in the Kurdistan Region. The media and free voices must act as a genuine fourth estate, empowered to monitor, critique, and contribute to development. Pens and voices alike must be protected and able to express themselves freely.

Key objectives include:

1. Training and Capacity-Building: Establish relationships with international organisations to provide training and professional development courses for journalists.

2. Support for Threatened Journalists: Create a hotline or support service for journalists facing threats, harassment, or intimidation.

3. Equal Rights for Journalists: Ensure that journalists in Kurdistan receive the same rights and privileges as their counterparts in other parts of Iraq, including access to land grants, bank loans, and other benefits.

4. Support for a Free Press: Promote and safeguard a free or independent press throughout the Kurdistan Region.

5. Legal Protection for Journalists: Introduce specific legislation to protect journalists from arbitrary punishment, ensuring their safety and security, particularly in cases previously referred to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

Free Voices Flourish Under the PUK

Osman Rasul Musa, candidate number 33 on the PUK’s List 222 in the Sulaymaniyah constituency, told PUKMEDIA that freedom of expression has always been a defining principle of the PUK’s governance.

“Since the time of President Mam Jalal, freedom has been guaranteed under the authority of the PUK,” he said. “As a social democratic party, the PUK has fostered freedom in every field — particularly for the media and journalists.”

He added that absolute freedom has always been provided for everyone without discrimination. The PUK, he explained, was founded in part on the ideas of intellectuals and young people, which made it a progressive and adaptable party committed to realising freedoms — particularly for journalists.

“As a result,” he added, “the PUK’s principles have created an environment where all political parties and free voices have been able to emerge and grow.”

The PUK Has Always Supported Journalists

Karukh Abdulrahim Aziz, candidate number 29 on the PUK’s List 222 in the Erbil constituency, also highlighted the PUK’s open relationship with journalists and its respect for their role in society.

“The PUK has always welcomed journalists and never feared their criticism, opinions, or complaints,” Aziz told PUKMEDIA. “True freedom for journalists depends on the environment in which they work — and within the jurisdiction of the PUK, that freedom is real.”

Aziz added that the PUK has continually supported journalists by ensuring open access to information and cooperation. “In today’s world, information must reach the people freely through the media. That requires genuine freedom — something the PUK guarantees,” he stated.

President Mam Jalal Supported Freedom of Press

The PUK, under the leadership of President Bafel Jalal Talabani, is a force that fulfils its promises — a defining principle that sets it apart from others. The party has consistently worked to protect journalists’ rights. Recently, a special department was established within the court system, following the recommendation of Kurdistan Region Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, to ensure the safety and protection of journalists’ lives.

Protecting journalists’ rights and freedom of expression has long been a cornerstone within the PUK. President Mam Jalal consistently emphasised this principle, famously declaring in his meetings: “Journalists are free to write and express themselves — they can begin by criticising me; I forgive them.” This vision of President Mam Jalal continues to shape the PUK’s policies today. The party remains steadfast in its efforts to foster a free and open environment for journalists across the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

To embody this vision, the Freedom Platform was established at Azadi Park in Sulaymaniyah — a symbol of the PUK’s enduring commitment to freedom of expression. The words of President Mam Jalal remain deeply embedded in the party’s policies, guiding ongoing efforts to safeguard journalists’ rights across the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.

In tribute to journalists who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty over the past two decades, and to ensure their memory lives on, Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani unveiled the "Guardians of Truth Monument" beside the Freedom Platform on 14 September 2024.

The PUK is contesting the 2025 Iraqi parliamentary elections, scheduled for 11 November, across several governorates, presenting its candidates on an independent list numbered 222 in Erbil, Sulaymaniyah (including Halabja), Duhok, Kirkuk, and Diyala. In Nineveh Governorate, the PUK is running as part of the "Nineveh People’s Union Coalition" with number 281, while in Saladin it is fielding one candidate within the "National Masses Coalition" with number 240.

Overall, the PUK is entering the elections with 156 candidates: 36 in Sulaymaniyah, 30 in Erbil, 5 in Duhok, 24 in Kirkuk, 28 in Diyala, 31 in Nineveh within the Nineveh People’s Union Coalition, and one candidate each in Saladin and Baghdad.



PUKMEDIA