Baghdad: Minister of Communications, Hiyam Al-Yasiri, emphasized the critical need for Iraqi citizens to have access to good, fast, and affordable internet services. She highlighted ongoing efforts by the ministry to reduce infrastructure costs by 45% for mobile phone companies and increase internet transmission lines to 4.5 million, with plans for continued expansion.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Yasiri addressed the Internet Governance Forum, underscoring the internet’s role as a vital necessity in modern life. She stressed that its governance and regulation must align with constitutional, legal, and societal standards, representing a collective responsibility among all relevant parties.

Al-Yasiri pointed out that while advanced countries are taking significant measures to address challenges in the internet sector, Iraq remains behind in this area. She mentioned that some countries are considering or have implemented restrictions on children’s social media usage, a consideration that could lead to legislative action.

She expressed concern over the blurred lines between freedom of expression and defamation on social media platforms, stressing the need for appropriate legislation that reflects societal norms. Al-Yasiri urged all concerned parties to take responsibility for this issue, noting the lack of cooperation from social media companies with Iraqi authorities such as the Communications and Media Commission and the Ministry of Communications.

Al-Yasiri concluded by reiterating the importance of providing Iraqi citizens with quality internet services at reasonable prices, hoping that the concerns and efforts of the Iraqi government would be respected by international social media companies.