Public Statement: Condemning the Targeting of Environmental Defenders and the Undermining of Constitutional Freedoms in Maysan Governorate
Iraq – Maysan | April 29, 2026
The undersigned organizations follow with grave concern the systematic escalation against environmental activist and human rights defender, Murtadha Al-Janoubi. He is currently facing a dual campaign of targeting—both legal and social—stemming from his peaceful and legitimate advocacy for the environmental integrity of the Iraqi Marshes and his demands for water justice in Maysan Governorate.
The treatment of Al-Janoubi constitutes a flagrant violation of Article (38) of the Iraqi Constitution, which guarantees freedom of expression by all means. It also stands in clear contradiction to Iraq’s international obligations regarding the protection of human rights and environmental defenders.
Over the past 24 hours (since April 28), we have monitored a dangerous shift in the tools of repression, manifesting in two parallel tracks:
1. Arbitrary Use of the Law: The Governor of Maysan has initiated legal proceedings against activist Murtadha Al-Janoubi based on the vague charge of “threatening civil and social peace.” We view this legal characterization as a transparent attempt to “demonize” constructive criticism and weaponize the judiciary to silence voices highlighting service and environmental failures.
2. Social Intimidation and Unlawful Pressure: Exerting psychological and social pressure on the activist’s family and social circle, aimed at socially isolating him and breaking his civic will. Such behavior is fundamentally incompatible with the principles of the rule of law and human dignity.
Based on the above, we affirm our steadfast human rights position as follows:
• First: We demand that the Governor of Maysan immediately and unconditionally withdraw the lawsuit against Murtadha Al-Janoubi, and recognize that advocating for water rights and environmental protection is a national and civic duty, not a crime against civil peace.
• Second: We emphasize that “social peace” is not threatened by peaceful activists, but rather by corruption, mismanagement of resources, and the muzzling of voices attempting to protect what remains of Iraq’s natural wealth.
• Third: We hold the local authorities in Maysan Governorate fully responsible for the physical and moral safety of Murtadha Al-Janoubi and his family.
The struggle for our “Marshes” is a struggle for the future of Iraq, and targeting environmental guardians is an assault on the future of coming generations. These pressures will only strengthen our resolve to uphold constitutional rights and stand in solidarity with every free voice demanding justice.
Undersigned:
Iraqi Civil Society Solidarity Initiative
Greencane organization
Protect Iraqi HRDs Now! campaign
Humat Djilah
Save the Tigris
Public Aid Organization – PAO
