Media:
Since 2002 , ASK has developed journalism in Kurdistan region and supported imdependency of media.
ASK started focusing on independent media in early 2000 in Kurdistan. The first step was to publish two books in 2002, “Practical Handbook for Journalists” and “Journalists Guide” in both languages: Arabic and Kurdish. In 2003, ASK received permission from the World Press Freedom Committee (USA) to translate their publication “Journalist Friendship” to Kurdish. The book consists of (28) chapters. It was the first of its kind in Kurdistan, therefore, it was used widely by the academic community and journalists.
Following the publications, ASK conducted workshops and hold meetings in Erbil, Dohuk and Sulaymaniyah to empower new journalists with knowledge required in this professional. Finally, ASK was asked by the KRG to assist in drafting the Law for journalists in Kurdistan. With financial assistance from the US consulate in Erbil, ASK drafted modifications and submitted to the parliament.
Journalists’ Companion: A Guide by the International Committee for Free Journalism
International Committee for Free Journalism
The “Journalists’ Companion” is a publication by the International Committee for Free Journalism, aimed at supporting and guiding journalists in their profession.
ASK Organization’s 2002 Publication: Journalists’ Guide
Published by ASK Organization, 2002
Written and Prepared by:
Dr. Salah Aziz
Translated from Arabic by:
Mohsen Adib
Summary:
ASK Organization published the “Journalists’ Guide” in 2002. The guide was written and prepared by Dr. Salah Aziz, with Mohsen Adib translating it from Arabic to Kurdish.
ASK Organization’s 2002 Release: The Practical Guide for Journalists
Published by ASK Organization, 2002
Prepared and Edited by:
Dr. Salah Aziz
Mohsen Adib
Summary:
ASK Organization published “The Practical Guide for Journalists” in 2002, a handbook aimed at providing essential tools and guidelines for journalists. The guide was prepared and edited by Dr. Salah Aziz and Mohsen Adib.
Erbil workshop detailed report 03.pdfErbil 2003 Media Workshop: Exploring Freedom and Censorship in Journalism
The workshop held in Erbil from May 27-29, 2003, brought together media officials, editors, and legal experts to discuss freedom and censorship in the media. Organized by the Ministry of Culture in cooperation with ASK, the workshop aimed to foster group discussions and encourage active participation rather than just lectures. The event emphasized the importance of open, objective dialogue and featured speeches from key figures like Mr. Mohsen Adeeb and Mr. Barzan Mulla Khalid. The three-day workshop gathered around 40-50 participants from various fields.
Suly media workshop detailed report 03.pdfMedia Freedom and Censorship: Insights from the 2003 Sulaymaniyah Media Workshop
The Media Workshop held in Sulaymaniyah from April 26-28, 2003, gathered media professionals, editors, legal experts, and intellectuals to discuss the critical concepts of freedom and censorship in media. The event, attended by key figures such as Minister of Culture Mr. Fatah Khalil and ASK’s Mr. Mohsen Adeeb, involved group discussions aimed at promoting active participation. The workshop highlighted the importance of open dialogue and objective contributions, while also reflecting on the challenges faced by journalists in the past year.
Journalist Duties.pdfProfessional Integrity and Truth: Ethical Guidelines for Journalists
The introduction to the Association of Professional Journalists’ guidelines highlights that raising public awareness is essential for justice and democracy. Journalists are tasked with seeking truth, presenting news fairly, and maintaining professional integrity. Their mission includes verifying information from credible sources, ensuring transparency in news reporting, and avoiding distortion or exaggeration in any media format. Ethical conduct and honesty are central to the trust that journalists must build with their audience.
ASK, journalism law March 2008.pdfRevising Journalists’ Law in Iraqi Kurdistan: Ensuring Freedom within Legal Frameworks
In 2005, the Kurdistan Journalists’ Union drafted a law to regulate journalism in the region, which was passed by parliament in 2007 after much debate. However, concerns arose, leading to the president returning the law for revisions. ASK facilitated discussions among stakeholders, organizing workshops and consulting legal experts to review the law according to international standards. One proposed amendment focused on guaranteeing journalistic freedom while ensuring it complies with the law, with specific suggestions to modify phrases related to public morals and order.
کتاب اليدوي للصحفين ٢٧-٢-٢٠٠٢.pdfASK’s Project Review: Media Club, Practical Manual, and Journalists’ Handbook Progress
ASK received several proposals, including a social magazine, a Women’s Day celebration, and a media club. While the first two do not align with ASK’s current interests, the media club is a future priority. The next steps involve determining cooperation from the governments of Sulaymaniyah and Erbil. Additionally, there are two projects in progress: a practical manual and a journalists’ handbook. The manual should be reviewed and ready for printing by mid-February, while the handbook will include basic media-related content and should be finalized in both Arabic and Kurdish by the same deadline.