Iraq's Media Regulator Sparks Outrage with Directive Restricting LGBT Terminology, Ignites Freedom of Expression Debate

 Iraq's official media regulator has issued a directive ordering all media and social media companies operating in the country to refrain from using the term "homosexuality" and instead use the term "sexual deviance." This decision has sparked criticism from human rights organizations and activists who argue that it further fuels the hostile climate towards LGBT individuals in Iraq.

The directive, issued by the Iraqi Communications and Media Commission (CMC), also bans the use of the term "gender" and applies to all mobile applications licensed by the commission. While a penalty for violating this rule has not yet been determined, it could include fines.

Iraq does not explicitly criminalize homosexuality, but the loosely defined morality clauses in the country's penal code have been used to target members of the LGBT community. Human rights organizations have reported numerous cases of violence, torture, and sexual assault against LGBT individuals in Iraq, often carried out by non-state actors under the umbrella of Sharia law.

Critics argue that this latest directive is a dangerous move that restricts freedom of expression and can potentially escalate discrimination and violent attacks against the LGBT community. Amnesty International's deputy director for the Middle East and North Africa, Aya Majzoub, called on the Iraqi authorities to overturn the decision and uphold the right to freedom of expression and non-discrimination.

This directive comes after the introduction of a bill in July that seeks to criminalize homosexuality in Iraq. Human rights groups warn that such legislation would provide legal protection to the government, armed groups, and others who target LGBT individuals. The United Nations' Human Rights chief, Volker Türk, expressed concern over Iraq's decision and its implications for gender and women's empowerment.

Türk also criticized the United States for the human rights abuses that occurred during the country's invasion. While over 60 countries still criminalize gay sex, more than 130 countries have legalized same-sex sexual acts, according to Our World in Data. Iraq's recent move to restrict the use of terms related to homosexuality and gender adds to the challenges faced by the LGBT community in the country and raises concerns about the erosion of their rights and safety.