Dhi Qar Governorate has witnessed a significant escalation in protests following a broad wave of arrests targeting activists, increasing the risk of restrictions on fundamental freedoms and peaceful expression. These protests are a response to demands for freedom of expression and the release of all detainees, and we strongly condemn this ongoing repression, which threatens Iraq’s democratic foundation.

In this context, it is clear that restricting civil society and targeting human rights defenders represents a serious escalation that undermines efforts to promote democracy and negatively impacts the country’s long-term stability. The shrinking civic space limits not only individuals’ right to expression but also the ability of civil society to play its vital role in oversight, accountability, and participation in decision-making. With the resurgence of protests, we emphasize the need to protect human rights defenders and ensure their right to work in a safe environment, free from repression and intimidation.

We call on the Iraqi government to fulfill its constitutional and international obligations by immediately releasing all detainees and ensuring freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest. Ending the criminalization of peaceful protests has become an urgent necessity to uphold Iraq’s fundamental rights.

We also urge the adoption of immediate measures to ensure the safety of activists and human rights defenders, including providing legal protection, safe spaces, and psychological and social support, in addition to strengthening digital security and providing the necessary support to protect activists from any attempts at surveillance or digital breaches. The establishment of national monitoring mechanisms is essential for rapid intervention in cases where activists are at risk.

Furthermore, we call on the international community to show solidarity with the Iraqi people, supporting their right to expression and the protection of civic space, which contributes to the strengthening of democracy and fundamental freedoms in the country. Support from international organizations and civil society institutions is essential to enhance Iraqi civil society’s capacity to perform its vital role.

As civil society organizations, we reaffirm that our commitment to democratic values and human rights stems from our independent desire to serve the Iraqi people. We reject any attempts to discredit our work through baseless accusations. Our goal is a just and peaceful Iraq, where everyone can express their opinions freely without fear of retaliation and where the civic space is respected.

Together, we work for an Iraq that upholds its citizens’ rights and protects their peaceful participation in shaping their future.