Activists and journalists in Iraq continue to face severe threats from the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), a network of predominantly pro-Iranian Shiite militias originally formed in 2014 to combat ISIS. Over the years, the PMF has been implicated in widespread human rights abuses, including targeted killings, intimidation, and harassment of civilians and political activists.
A recent landmark case reported by The National (March 25, 2025) highlights a member of the Dakok Support Centre who faced direct threats from the PMF. Recognized by a UK court and granted the right to remain, this case underscores the real dangers faced by Dakok members due to their activism and campaigns to raise awareness both in the UK and internationally. The individual fled Iraq because of his political activism with Dakok and his refusal to cooperate with PMF operations, placing him at serious risk of persecution and violence (source).
This case illustrates the tangible danger faced by those opposing or resisting militia influence, including activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens.
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https://www.thenationalnews.com/news/mena/2025/03/25/iraqs-shiite-militia-threat-leads-two-kurds-to-gain-uk-asylum/About the Author
