Our partners at Iraq FM produce community-focused programmes which address many of the issues facing the country. The primary religion is Islam, where 97% of the population identifies as Muslim¹.

Iraq has been experiencing political, economic and social instability for decades. Many of the listeners are women - mostly unemployed as they are not allowed to work - who often feel like prisoners in their own homes. Yet, our partners have been able to engage with many female listeners, establishing new friendships through the ministry. 

A faith-filled team
The Iraq FM team uses interviews and interactions with the community to help educate, entertain and encourage people who are forced to live in fragmented neighbourhoods. Many are vulnerable, lonely and isolated, but the hope-filled values around God’s joy and peace permeate the programmes.

However, there are still obstacles that the team needs to overcome. Iraq’s precarious financial state frequently makes it a struggle to transfer much-needed funds to Iraq FM, but as one of the team, Yosef*, says: “We are going through great financial distress which is hindering the progress of our ministry, but we believe that God’s work will expand despite all the obstacles that the enemy of goodness is putting in our way.”

An audience finding faith in Jesus!
In spite of all the roadblocks hindering the ministry, listeners are coming to faith. Khaled* contacted the team to say that after listening to Iraq FM’s programmes, he now believes in Jesus. A face-to-face meeting is planned, and he will be discipled and supported in his new faith.  

Despite the challenges, our partners are working with local churches to share the gospel. One church rents them space for a studio and another supports financially and broadcasts a family programme five days a week. Yosef says:

We are confident that God’s work will continue effectively with the power of the Holy Spirit, despite all the obstacles we face.

As our partners at Iraq FM continue reaching out to their listeners, they trust and believe in God to protect, support and inspire them as they do His work and share His joy with their community.

¹ 2019 Report on International Religious Freedom: Iraq

*Name changes for security reasons