Monday, July 14, 2008

Iraqi Kurdistan's attack on the Press   [Michael Rubin]

Iraqi Kurdistan likes to describe itself as a bastion of freedom, stability, and democracy in Iraq.

Jalal Talabani and Masud Barzani recently, though, has made a mockery with a full-fledged assault on free press in Iraqi Kurdistan. According to Kurdish websites, Barzani's militia has summarily detained and executed journalists who had critically reported abuse of human rights and corruption. Jalal Talabani's aides and militia have harassed the independent newspaper Hawlati using Saddam-era laws. Just recently, in rhetoric borrowed from Iran, Talabani's aide has accused independent journalist of acting as spies. Ironically, more than five years after U.S. forces liberated Iraq, media in Iraqi Kurdistan is now LESS free than in neighboring Iran

Why does this matter?

a) As the Kurdish militias force their authority and abuse locals in mixed areas in Kirkuk and Mosul, non-Kurds are turning to insurgents including al Qaeda affiliates for protection. Such trends accelerate when their is no public outlet for complaint.

b) Anti-Americanism is growing in Iraqi Kurdistan as the Bush administration is seen as supporting Talabani and Barzani's growing disdain for rule-of-law. The Islamist parties in Iraqi Kurdistan will ultimately be the beneficiaries as they cultivate an image of cleanliness.

07/14 11:36 AMShare