Chairman of the Communications and Media Commission Ali Al-Moayyad confirmed today, Monday, that Iraq has more than 300 diverse media outlets that represent the unique democratic experience in the region. A statement by the Commission stated that "Chairman of the Communications and Media Commission Ali Al-Moayyad met with Deputy Executive Director of Human Rights Watch in the Middle East and North Africa Michael Page, on the sidelines of Iraq's participation in the Future Summit held in New York." The statement added that "Al-Moayyad provided a detailed explanation of the role of the commission in regulating the media and communications sector and protecting press rights and freedoms, in accordance with the constitution and applicable laws based on Order 65. Al-Moayyad explained, "The developments that Iraq witnessed after 2003 regarding freedom of expression," noting that "Iraq currently has more than 300 diverse media outlets, which represents a unique democratic experience in the region." The statemen t continued, "Al-Moayyad also touched on the role of the Commission in formulating laws and regulations for media broadcasting, which aim to protect the rights of journalists and guarantee their freedom within a regulatory and legal framework." Al-Moayyad also discussed, "The role of the Commission in maintaining security and societal peace by taking measures aimed at protecting the general framework in line with applicable laws, especially those issued by judicial institutions or decisions issued under the Commission's powers." Al-Moayyad referred to "the circulars issued by the Commission to limit hate speech and promote peaceful coexistence among all religions, sects and nationalities," reviewing "the steps taken by the Commission to limit the spread of hate speech." He explained the reasons that led to preventing the appearance of some controversial figures who conflict with applicable laws and media broadcasting regulations." Source: National Iraqi News Agency