There is a misconception with many journalists that it is no longer possible to to cover stories in Iraq.

This page is designed to assist anyone wanting to cover stories inside Iraq so that they remain as safe as possible.

In the past we used Baghdad Hotels such as the Palestine, but the security risk is now considered to be High so that, although there are still two hotels which are fairly safe we now prefer to use secure compounds. We have an arrangement with an established Security Company to hire a secure house in the Green Zone. We also have an arrangement with a media company to hire a floor in their secure house close to the majority of the major media companies Baghdad bureaus. These compounds have their own electricity supply, are comfortable, safe and equipped with good communication links. The cost to stay in a compound is about the same as the price of a hotel room.

The most dangerous trip is along the BIAP road. To do this we hire a PSD with armoured vehicles. This is not cheap but it is about as safe as it can be!

All other moves are in low profile armoured vehicles fitted with tracking devices. In addition a PSD shadows all moves in and around Baghdad.

Chiron is still deploying Security Advisors to support Media Crews working in Iraq, but as Iraq has got more and more dangerous we have adapted our modus operandi to ensure that all risks are reduced and that should an incident occur the there is back-up dedicated to ensuring that we and our clients has the best possible chance to walk away safely.

“Just a quick note to say how impressed I am with the work of the Chiron safety advisers over the past few weeks. They've done some great work including sourcing a garage and a mechanic for the broken armoured, organizing the flights out, researching our routes to the airport and strengthening security at the bureau and in the street.  It's all been done with minimum fuss, maximum imagination and effort. Their calmness and positive attitude during what's been quite a difficult time has been enormously appreciated. Thanks again to everyone.”