The Kurdish Media Watchdog Organization (CHMK) is a not-for-profit, non-governmental, and independent media support initiative established in November 2017 by a group of Kurdish academics. Its mission is to monitor, evaluate, and report on violations of professional standards in Kurdish media, while also conducting research on issues related to journalistic practices and media content.
Initially, CHMK.ORG concentrated on enhancing journalistic professionalism and raising public awareness about human rights and democratization in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. This focus stems from concerns over recurring violations of civil rights and privacy by some media outlets and practitioners. CHMK’s work extends across multiple projects, including:
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Monitoring Kurdish media content;
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Conducting academic research;
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Implementing surveys;
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Offering professional training programs;
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Publishing scholarly resources, including journals and books.
Over time, its activities have expanded beyond the Kurdistan Region to other parts of Iraq, providing media assistance aimed at promoting democratic media regulation and supporting liberal journalistic practices. A key element of this effort involves collecting and analyzing the latest data on media trends, challenges, and developments in the KRI. The organization publishes its findings and resources online through its official platform, www.chmk.org, designed to serve as a reliable information hub and a bridge between media producers and audiences.
Aims and Methodological Approaches
General Aims
CHMK.org seeks to contribute to the development of a modern, professional media system in Kurdistan—one that fosters responsible journalism, improves regulatory standards, and ensures balanced content production. The organization also promotes social peace, reconciliation, and mutual respect among different groups within Kurdish society. Its principles align with democratic values, freedom of expression, international human rights declarations, and the ethical codes of the International Federation of Journalists.
Specific Aims
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Monitoring and evaluating the quality and content of Kurdish media across print, broadcast, and digital platforms.
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Providing training for emerging generations of journalists, with emphasis on media professionalism, legal frameworks, and journalistic ethics.
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Analyzing key trends, phenomena, and impacts of Kurdish media practices.
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Assessing levels of media freedom, access to information, and protection of individual privacy, while documenting violations—especially during periods of political tension, conflict, or election campaigns.
For further information, visit www.chmk.org.
Editorial Team
