ARIJ Investigations Win Three Awards at the Qarib Journalism Awards 2025-2026

ARIJ and Jummar investigation “Deadly Deliveries In Iraq: The Hidden Face of Delivery Companies in Iraq,” by journalists Hassan al-Shannoun and Maizar Kamal, won first place in the “Best Investigative Reporting on Corruption Affecting Marginalized Communities” category at the Qarib Journalism Awards 2025-2026. The investigation reveals major gaps in the work environment, most notably the absence of legal protections for drivers, unfair contracts, denial of social security and health insurance, and the lack of compensation for accident victims despite the high-risk nature of the job.

“I feel great pride that the ‘Deadly Deliveries’ investigation won first place at the Qarib Journalism Awards. This coronation comes in recognition of the efforts of everyone who contributed to completing this investigative work, and I particularly mention the ARIJ team and the investigation supervisor, Firas Taweel, for their continuous support, supervision, and follow-up throughout the investigation journey. I hope this achievement serves as a launching pad for a deeper career path in investigative journalism, through which I continue to amplify people’s voices, highlight victims’ issues, uncover facts, serve society, and contribute to making a real impact through this type of journalism.” — Journalist Hassan al-Shanoun

Furthermore, the investigation “Freedom Denied: Psychiatric patients trapped inside the forensic ward of Al-Fuheis Hospital in Jordan” by journalist Ola Al-Amleh, won first place in the “Best Coverage of Socio-Economic Issues and Local Governance” category. This investigation draws on testimonies from former residents and two former staff members of the forensic ward, as well as insights from legal and mental health experts. The accounts reveal harsh detention conditions endured by inmates, in blatant violation of United Nations guidelines on mental health and the rights of persons with disabilities. Official documents obtained by our team also show that some residents remain confined even after achieving social recovery—either because they lack a guarantor or are awaiting reconciliation procedures.

“I am thrilled to have won first place at the Qarib Journalism Awards. I was able to win an award that bears my name and the name of ARIJ, the organization that supported me for five years and was my starting point in the field of investigative journalism. This award is a responsibility before it is an achievement, and this honor is a motivation to continue searching for the issues of the afflicted and turning their suffering into a voice that creates a tangible impact on their bitter reality.” — Journalist Ola Al-Amleh

Within the same category, the investigation “The Graveyards of Unknown Women,” by journalist Asaad Al-Zalzali, secured third place. The investigation exposes the killings of women and girls in Iraq under the guise of “honor killing”, and uncovers methods of covering up murders as suicides to escape justice, as well as legal loopholes that allow victims to be handed over to their killers.

“The recognition of the investigation ‘The Graveyards of Unknown Women’ at the Qarib Journalism Awards, alongside two other investigative works, represents a new honor for investigative work that seeks to uncover facts and defend victims. It underscores the importance of serious journalism in holding authorities accountable and amplifying the voices of the marginalized. For me, the most important prize is the investigation’s success in bringing the victims’ voices to the world; women and girls, some of whom were buried in silence, without anyone knowing their stories. It is a voice for young girls, wives, daughters, and sisters who lost their lives at the hands of people who were supposed to be their source of protection, only to turn into ruthless monsters.” — Journalist Asaad Al-Zalzali

The Qarib Journalism Awards recognize, support, and amplify impactful journalism and storytelling from Iraq, Palestine, Jordan, and Lebanon that bring forward underrepresented, marginalized voices and perspectives, while upholding the highest ethical and professional standards.