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UNESCO and the Iraqi Security Media Cell Celebrate World Press Freedom Day: Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on the Future of Journalism

UNESCO Iraq and the Security Media Committee marked World Press Freedom Day in Baghdad with a session on AI’s impact on media and press freedom.
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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Iraq, in partnership with the Security Media Committee, commemorated World Press Freedom Day through a high-level discussion session held in Baghdad. The session focused on this year’s global theme launched by UNESCO: Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”

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The event brought together a distinguished group of journalists and media professionals, and was attended by Major General Saad Maan, Head of the Security Media Committee, who reaffirmed the commitment of the Joint Operations Command to facilitating journalistic work and supporting freedom of expression as a cornerstone of democracy and pluralism.

In his remarks, Dhea Subhee, UNESCO’s CI Officer, emphasized that freedom of expression and the safety of journalists remain central to UNESCO’s mission. He noted that UNESCO is working to empower media professionals with AI tools that enhance journalistic performance and improve well-being—rather than become a source of psychological or professional risk.

Prior to this official session, the Prime Minister of Iraq held an important meeting with the families of fallen journalists, listening to the challenges faced by the press and the struggles endured by the relatives of those who lost their lives defending the truth. The meeting, attended by UNESCO and the Security Media Cell, served as a humanitarian gesture that underscored the vital role of journalism and the need to ensure its protection and support.

This year’s commemoration was more than a ceremonial occasion; it served as a powerful statement of Iraq’s and the international community’s commitment to defending press freedom in an era of rapidly evolving technology—and a reminder that artificial intelligence should be a tool for empowerment, not an obstacle, for journalists.