Rights groups in Kurdistan have raised concerns over growing restrictions on press freedom. Civil society organizations report that authorities have blocked multiple press conferences this month. Advocates warn that these measures represent a serious threat to freedom of expression.
Network 19, a coalition of Kurdish rights organizations, stated that the repeated bans show a “clear violation of press freedom in Kurdistan.” The coalition urged authorities to end permit requirements for gatherings, whether indoors or outdoors.
According to the coalition, security forces prevented the Professional Teachers’ Organization, the Supreme Committee of Pioneering Teachers, and the Teachers’ Rights Defense Committee from holding a press briefing near the Kurdistan Parliament in Erbil. The groups later moved the event to a different location to deliver their statements.
Earlier in the month, officials in Al-Sulaymaniyah stopped the Kurdistan Organization for Freedom and Change from holding a press conference at Nali Park. Authorities cited a lack of official permits. Network 19 stressed that these gatherings were not protests or demonstrations but press events aimed at expressing civic concerns.
The coalition emphasized that Law No. 11/2010 regulates demonstrations and marches in public spaces but does not cover press conferences. Yet, officials increasingly require permits for all events, including those inside closed halls. Network 19 described this trend as a dangerous overreach that undermines civil society.
“These repeated bans weaken the ability of civil society groups to operate freely,” Network 19 added. The coalition warned that restricting press conferences erodes the overall climate of press freedom in the Region.
Advocates argue that the bans have a chilling effect. Journalists and civil society actors fear that speaking publicly may trigger administrative or legal consequences. These actions contradict international standards of freedom of expression and rights protections.
Network 19 called on Kurdistan authorities to respect the legal distinction between public demonstrations and press events. The group highlighted that limiting press conferences violates basic rights and reduces transparency. They urged the government to remove permit requirements and allow civic organizations to communicate freely.
Kurdistan press freedom remains a central concern as these restrictions increase. Experts warn that ongoing limitations could damage the region’s reputation as a safe space for civil society and open dialogue.