AFPC-USA Stands in Solidarity with Abducted American Journalist Shelly Kittleson

The Association of Foreign Press Correspondents stands in solidarity with Shelly Kittleson, the American journalist abducted in Baghdad.

Kittleson is an experienced freelancer who has worked across multiple conflict zones. Her career represents exactly the kind of independent, ground-level foreign reporting that the world depends on — work that no algorithm or virtual voice can replace.

Iraq currently accounts for 10 percent of the 90 journalists missing globally. This statistic is a rebuke to every government and armed force that treats journalists as leverage.  

We call on the U.S. government, Iraqi authorities, and all parties with influence over this situation to prioritize her immediate and safe release.

The Association of Foreign Journalists demands that journalists be recognized for their essential work — not become targets or bargaining chips. We will continue to advocate for Kittleson’s freedom and for the safety of all foreign correspondents worldwide.