HRANA News Agency – Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA), along with 15 other human rights organizations, have released a joint statement urging the international community and human rights activists to unite in condemning Iran’s restrictive policies on sexual and reproductive rights. They also call for using diplomatic channels to demand the abolition of discriminatory laws. These organizations request that the Islamic Republic revoke laws restricting abortion and reinstate comprehensive family planning programs. The signatories of this statement emphasize that the Iranian government must comply with international health standards and cooperate with the United Nations to ensure women have access to the highest level of reproductive health care.

Read the full statement below, and find the Persian version here.

Washington D.C. Friday, May 10, 2024 –In the past decade, Iran has intensified its efforts to limit women’s fundamental rights, notably in the sphere of reproductive autonomy. This trend underscores a broader pattern within the country, where women’s rights are facing persistent and escalating restrictions. Under the guise of addressing declining population growth, the government has introduced increasingly discriminatory legislation severely limiting access to vital sexual and reproductive healthcare and family planning services such as access to abortion, essential prenatal screening and contraception. These measures criminalize healthcare providers and strip women of bodily autonomy, perpetuating systemic discrimination, now widely acknowledged.

Considering the persistent discriminatory legislation against women’s sexual and reproductive healthcare and with insights from HRA‘s latest report, Sexual and Reproductive Rights in Iran: Battling Restrictive Laws and Discriminatory Practices, which includes grim conversations with women and providers directly affected, the undersigned organizations urge decisive international action to address systemic violations of women’s sexual and reproductive rights in Iran.

The undersigned organizations call upon the international community to:

🔳 Immediate Condemnation The international community and activists must unite in condemning Iran’s restrictive sexual and reproductive policies, urging the repeal of discriminatory laws including through diplomatic channels, where available.

🔳 Engagement with International/Intergovernmental Institutions Engage with international and intergovernmental institutions to raise awareness and advocate for action. Importantly, UNFPA, in its work toward the goal of universal access to sexual and reproductive health and rights, including family planning, it is imperative that in all engagements under the UNFPA Country Programme and the 2024-2025 joint work plans between UNFPA and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, there is a strong emphasis on the need to repeal restrictive legislation that criminalizes abortion and imposes punitive measures on individuals seeking or providing abortion services.

🔳 Educational Initiatives Introduce public awareness campaigns aimed at challenging norms perpetuating gender inequality. It is imperative to ensure that these campaigns reach minority areas and are linguistically inclusive, thereby facilitating broader dissemination and maximizing their transformative impact.

🔳 Monitoring and Accountability Maintain specialized monitoring to hold Iran accountable for violations of women’s rights, namely sexual and reproductive rights violations. Seek to hold individuals directly involved in violations responsible through targeted action across jurisdictions.

The undersigned organizations urge the Islamic Republic of Iran to:

🔳 Support Family Planning Reinstate comprehensive family planning programs providing contraception, prenatal and antenatal healthcare, and linguistically inclusive education to empower all women in making their own reproductive healthcare choices.

🔳 Repeal Restrictive Legislation Immediately revoke laws criminalizing abortion and ensure access to safe and legal abortion services and eliminate all punitive measures against healthcare providers and institutions.

🔳 Adhere to International Health Standards Commit to upholding international health standards and obligations, including the right to health as outlined in the ICESCR.

🔳 Combat Gender-Based Discrimination Take concrete steps to address systemic gender discrimination and promote gender equality across all societal domains.

🔳 Cooperate with the United Nations Engage with United Nations human rights mechanisms, granting unrestricted access to the country. This not only enables comprehensive monitoring and reporting on the prevailing situation but also serves to enhance accessibility to sexual and reproductive healthcare assistance while addressing ongoing challenges.

Iranian women are not alone in their struggle to attain access to safe sexual and reproductive healthcare. However, Iranian women face systemic discrimination alongside the barriers to sexual and reproductive healthcare, perpetuating their subordinate status in law and ultimately endangering their lives. Iran must implement recommendations, ensuring access to improved sexual and reproductive health for all citizens.

Signatories:

🔸Abdorrahman Boroumand Center for Human Rights in Iran   

🔸Association for the Human Rights of the Azerbaijani People in Iran   

🔸Baloch Activists Campaign  

🔸Centre Against Racism in Iran

🔸Haalvsh

🔸Human Rights Activists 

🔸Human Rights Watch 

🔸HYRCANI 

🔸Kurdistan Human Rights Association – Geneva 

🔸Kurdpa Human Rights Organization 

🔸Miaan 

🔸OutRight International 

🔸Rasanak 

🔸Siamak Pourzand Foundation 

🔸Tuhra 

🔸World Organisation Against Torture, OMCT

HRANA – In a groundbreaking session at the Human Rights Council’s 55th meeting, the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran revealed extensive human rights abuses, including extrajudicial killings, torture, and gender persecution. Despite presenting a detailed 470-page report documenting systemic violations and calling for accountability, Iranian officials dismissed the allegations as ‘riots,’ highlighting a deep-seated culture of impunity. The findings, emphasizing the urgent need for reform and international cooperation, prompt a strong recommendation for the renewal of the mission’s mandate to continue documenting abuses and advocating for justice for Iran’s citizens.

The FFM Interactive Dialogue at HRC55

On March 18th 2024, the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran presented their findings to the Human Rights Council in their 55th Session. Despite facing challenges in establishing communication with Iranian authorities, the FFM meticulously documented various incidents and patterns of rights violations. From the tragic death of Mahsa Amini to the use of violence against peaceful protesters resulting in unlawful killings, the report paints a troubling picture of systemic abuses. Moreover, the documented violations, including extrajudicial killings, torture, rape, enforced disappearances, and gender persecution, underscore the urgent need for accountability and justice for the victims and survivors..

Response from Iran: 

In response to the  findings presented by the FFM, Iranian representatives, who were present at the session, exhibited a dismissive stance, refusing to acknowledge the gravity of the situation. Instead, they opted to label incidents as mere “riots,” deflecting accountability and downplaying the systemic issues at hand. The limited recognition of crimes against humanity, particularly gender persecution, further highlights the reluctance of Iranian authorities to address the root causes of rights violations. Additionally, during the speeches by civil society organizations, the Iranian representatives continued to interrupt the speakers.
This response not only undermines efforts towards accountability but also perpetuates a culture of impunity, leaving victims and survivors without recourse for justice.  

Conclusion

The presentation of the FFM’s findings underscores the urgent need for concerted action to address human rights abuses within the Islamic Republic of Iran. It serves as a clarion call for both domestic and international stakeholders to prioritize accountability, justice, and reform. On the 19th of March the , which contains a deep analysis and detailing findings made by the FFM as well as notes the opportunities for further analysis. 

Moving forward, it is imperative for Iranian authorities to engage constructively with the international community and take meaningful steps towards upholding fundamental rights and dignity for all individuals within the nation.  Additionally, HRA strongly recommends the renewal of the FFMI mandate, ensuring ample time and resources for documenting ongoing human rights violations and potential breaches of international law. Moreover, HRA advocates for the mandate to continue to acknowledge the Iranian people subjected to decades of systemic human rights abuses.

GENEVA- On March 18,2024, Skylar Thompson, Director of Global Advocacy and Accountability, contributed to a pivotal side event during the Human Rights Council 55th Session, focusing on the escalating persecution in Iran on the grounds of gender, ethnicity, and religion.

Thompson participated alongside distinguished chair of the FFMI Sara Hossain,who earlier in the day presented the findings to the Human Rights Council. During the side event, she highlighted the disproportionate discriminations towards minorities, particular in regard to the violence shown during the protest. Further, she also addressed the extreme violence towards women and girls that amounted to crimes against humanity of murder, torture, and persecution on the grounds of gender intersecting with the persecution of minorities.

Other panelists included Taimoor Alliassi, Monireh Shiran, Raphaël Chenuil-Hazan and, Nushin Sarkarati.

The session provided a platform to address the worsening human rights situation in the country, highlighting the plight of marginalized groups, particularly women, minorities, and LGBTI individuals. Further, the panel discussed the findings by the FFMI, the historically high number of executions, and pathways to accountability through international mechanisms.

Thompson spoke about acts committed notably against women and girls for non-compliance with mandatory hijab laws or for opposing established gender norms and discriminatory policies which are deeply embedded into the domestic judicial system. She emphasized the urgent need to continue to document extensively the ongoing crimes occurring in Iran, stressing that these events are not isolated incidents but rather systematic oppression targeting specific groups of individuals on the basis of their membership in those groups.. She highlighted the treatment during the protests, but also the long-standing persecution endured by women, minorities, and LGBTI individuals within Iran, stating, “All these acts surrounding the protests have been happening for decades. Iran has persecuted women, they have persecuted minorities, and they have persecuted LGBTI individuals.” Thompson’s call to action included renewing mandates for fact-finding missions and special rapporteurs, underscoring the imperative for international intervention to address the egregious human rights violations perpetrated in Iran.

UNSR Dr. Javaid Rehman presents final report as mandate holder to the U.N. Human Rights Council, 18 March 2024

Today, Dr. Javaid Rehman, United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran, presented his final report as mandate holder to the United Nations Human Rights Council .

HRA welcomes Dr. Rehman’s analysis, particularly his spotlight on the alarming prevalence of death penalty charges, including for drug related offenses and for juvenile offenders.  Despite the clear violation of Article 6 of the ICCPR, Iran persists in executing individuals on drug-related charges and other crimes that do not amount to “most serious” under international law. Furthermore, the report exposes the egregious mistreatment of women, girls, human rights defenders, lawyers, and minorities, illustrating instances of forced confessions, unfair trials, and discriminatory practices. The aforementioned– all themes HRA has worked diligently to document and work closely with the mandate to share insights throughout the reporting period.

HRA embraces the recommendations outlined in the report , advocating for a moratorium on executions, the abolition of the death penalty, and improved legislation concerning child offenders.. It also underscores the imperative to uphold the right to a fair trial in accordance with the ICCPR, prevent threats, harassment, and arbitrary arrests of human rights defenders, and release individuals detained for exercising their fundamental freedoms. See HRA’s latest report on the situation of female political prisoners for more on our work in this regard.

HRA is proud to be present at the United Nations Human Rights Council in its 55th Session, standing in solidarity with and bringing the voices of Iranians to the international stage. In light of the expansive issues touched on in the report, it is imperative that Member States of the Human Rights Council vote to renew the mandate of the Special Rapporteur on Iran. This will ensure the continuation of vital work such as documentation, reporting, and archiving in the manner exemplified today.

HRANA – In a groundbreaking publication today, Human Rights Activists (HRA) has released an extensive report detailing Iran’s longstanding practice of recruiting the economically disadvantaged segments of society, including asylum seekers, immigrants, and using child soldiers in armed conflicts. The report particularly spotlights the exploitation of Afghan minors within the Fatemiyoun Division. This comprehensive investigation sheds light on a series of violations of international humanitarian law and international children’s rights, revealing the depth of Iran’s involvement in the recruitment, training, and deployment of children in combat zones.

The primary focus of this report, prepared by Spreading Justice (a database of human rights violators), the Pasdaran Documentation Initiative, and the HRANA news agency, is on the use of children—specifically individuals under 18 years of age—in war zones, who are predominantly of Afghan nationality and, to a lesser extent, Pakistani.

Purpose of Publishing the Report:

Unmasking the Exploitation of Vulnerable Populations: The primary aim of this report is to unmask the systematic exploitation of vulnerable populations, with a particular focus on Afghan immigrants and minors, by Iran’s military and paramilitary forces. Through detailed accounts, testimonies, and evidence, HRA endeavors to bring to the forefront the realities of these practices that have long been shrouded in secrecy and obfuscation.

Highlighting Violations of International Law: The report meticulously documents Iran’s breaches of several international agreements, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the ILO Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention. Through this documentation, HRA aims to underscore the stark contrast between Iran’s international commitments and its actions on the ground, emphasizing the need for accountability and adherence to international humanitarian law.

Advocating for the Rights and Protection of Children: At its core, the publication aims to advocate for the rights and protection of children caught in armed conflicts. By revealing the recruitment and utilization of child soldiers, HRA urges the international community, policymakers, and human rights organizations to take decisive action. The report serves as a compelling call to action, highlighting the urgent need for measures to prevent the ongoing exploitation of children in conflicts and to uphold their rights as outlined in international law

Promoting Transparency and Accountability: This report also aims to encourage transparency and accountability regarding the recruitment and use of child soldiers. By conducting a thorough analysis of Iran’s recruitment networks, training centers, and the roles played by various institutions and commanders, HRA seeks to ensure that those responsible for these violations are held accountable.

Encouraging International Action and Dialogue: This report aims to spur international action and dialogue on the urgent issue of child soldiers.It calls for a united global effort to address and mitigate the factors driving the recruitment of child soldiers, advocating for policy reforms and the implementation of protective measures in line with the principles of international humanitarian law and children’s rights.

Through this report, HRA not only highlights the grave injustices experienced by child soldiers but also provides a roadmap for change, urging all stakeholders to commit to protecting the most vulnerable in conflict zones.

Executive Summary: A Deep Dive into Iran’s Recruitment of Child Soldiers

HRA’s report is a comprehensive analysis that exposes Iran’s systematic recruitment and exploitation of child soldiers, particularly focusing on the use of Afghan minors within the ranks of the Fatemiyoun Division, a paramilitary group fighting in Syria under the auspices of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This investigation is the result of meticulous research, including interviews with former child soldiers, analysis of recruitment tactics, and examination of the training and deployment processes.

Key Findings of the Report:

Systematic Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers: The report exposes Iran’s long-standing practice of systematically recruiting child soldiers, a practice dating back to the Iran-Iraq War and persisting through its involvement in the Syrian conflict. It details how Iran targets vulnerable populations, particularly Afghan refugees and immigrants, many of whom are minors, coercing them into military service with promises of financial rewards or legal residency.

Violation of International Laws and Conventions: The HRA’s findings reveal Iran’s egregious violations of international law, encompassing both International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law. Despite its obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), which prohibits the use of children under 15 in hostilities, Iran has been documented recruiting children as young as 14. This flagrant disregard for international norms extends to Iran’s failure to adhere to the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention on child soldiers and Customary International Law. These actions highlight Iran’s blatant disregard for its international commitments and the urgent need for accountability.

Inadequate Training and Preparation: The investigation details the insufficient and hastily conducted training provided to these child soldiers and other recruits, often lasting only three to four weeks. The training primarily focuses on combat tactics rather than imparting a comprehensive understanding of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). This lack of proper training not only exposes these children to immense danger on the battlefield but also contravenes the principles of IHL, which Iran is obligated to teach its armed forces.

Exploitation and Coercion: The report exposes the exploitation and coercion inherent in Iran’s recruitment practices. Testimonies from former child soldiers and other former members reveal a troubling pattern of manipulation, where minors and individuals in precarious visa situations are coerced into combat roles under threats of violence or death. Promises of financial compensation and legal status made to them are consistently broken.

High Casualty Rates and Lack of Support: One of the most harrowing findings is the disproportionately high casualty rates among the Fatemiyoun Division’s child soldiers. Testimonies and data point to instances where a significant amount of child soldiers were deployed in combat operations with minimal support, resulting in significant loss of life and injury. Furthermore, the report criticizes the lack of adequate support for injured child soldiers and the families of those killed in action, highlighting a neglectful and dismissive attitude by the IRGC towards these individuals upon their return from Syria.

Call to Action:In light of these findings, the report urges immediate action from the international community, including the implementation of targeted human rights sanctions for human rights abusers, support from international organizations and non-governmental organizations working on the ground to protect vulnerable populations from recruitment. Emphasizing Iran’s duty to uphold international standards, the report urges Iran to immediately halt its recruitment of child soldiers and to initiate comprehensive measures for the rehabilitation and support of those already impacted by such egregious practices.

The report by HRA is not just a condemnation of Iran’s actions but a plea to safeguard the rights and well-being of children caught in conflicts. By shedding light on these issues, HRA seeks to catalyze global efforts to ensure that no child is coerced into bearing arms and that those who have suffered receive the support needed to rebuild their lives.

Methodological Challenges:

HRA report on the recruitment and use of child soldiers by Iran represents a significant accomplishment, prepared despite considerable security and information challenges. Conducting research in a context where access to reliable data is heavily restricted, and where subjects of investigation face significant risks, required innovative approaches and steadfast determination. The organization’s commitment to uncovering the truth led to the deployment of undercover investigations, extensive interviews with survivors, and collaboration with a network of local activists, all undertaken while ensuring the safety and anonymity of those involved.

The International Community’s Role

The international community cannot afford to overlook the findings of this report. The documented violations have profound implications for global peace, security, and human rights. Addressing the use of child soldiers requires a concerted effort from nations worldwide to:

1. Implement Sanctions and Diplomatic Pressure: States must use diplomatic channels and targeted human rights sanctions to pressure Iran to cease the recruitment of child soldiers and to comply with international humanitarian and human rights laws.
2. Support Rehabilitation Programs: There is an urgent need for programs focused on the rehabilitation and reintegration of former child soldiers, providing them with psychological support, education, and vocational training to help them rebuild their lives.
3. Enhance Monitoring and Reporting Mechanisms: The international community should support the establishment of independent monitoring bodies to track violations involving the use of child soldiers and ensure accountability for perpetrators.
4. Foster International Dialogue and Cooperation: Global forums and discussions should be leveraged to raise awareness about the issue and to foster cooperation among nations in eradicating the use of child soldiers.
5. Provide Support to Civil Society and NGOs: Organizations working on the ground to protect children and all vulnerable individuals from recruitment and to offer aid to those affected by conflict should receive financial and logistical support from the international community.

Invitation to Engage

HRA urges all concerned individuals, organizations, and government entities to engage with this critical issue by reviewing the full report. By understanding the depth and severity of the violations against children in armed conflicts, collective work can be done to safeguard the rights of the vulnerable.

To access the comprehensive report and learn more about the findings and recommendations, please download the full PDF version by clicking on the image below. HRA encourages readers to contact us with any questions, insights, or support for our ongoing efforts to protect human rights worldwide.

The active involvement and support of individuals are instrumental in addressing the use of child soldiers and upholding human rights globally. Collaboratively, efforts aim to contribute to positive change, fostering a safer, more just world for future generations.

Click Here to Download the Full Report in English (PDF)

گزارش فارسی را بخوانید

For more information please contact Skylar Thompson, Director of Global Advocacy and Accountability at Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) skylar[at]hramail.com

HRANA – HRA hailed the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran (FFMI) for its report highlighting severe human rights abuses and crimes against humanity, including gender persecution, during the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests. This recognition follows HRA and UpRights’ December submission, which urged the mission to acknowledge these crimes, sparked by Mahsa Zhina Amini’s death in custody. The FFMI’s findings detail egregious violations by Iranian security forces, including extra-judicial killings and torture, calling for urgent international action against systemic impunity. HRA emphasizes the importance of identifying perpetrators and explores international avenues for accountability, with Advocacy Director Skylar Thompson highlighting the significance of these findings for victims’ recognition and the pursuit of justice.

Read the HRA Statement Below:

HRA welcomes the findings presented by the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFMI) regarding serious human rights violations and crimes against humanity perpetrated against the civilian population, particularly women and girls, during the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests.

In particular, HRA welcomes the FFMI’s recognition of the crime against humanity of gender persecution. 

In December 2023, HRA with our partner, UpRights, submitted evidence and legal analysis on the crime against humanity of gender and political persecution urging the mission to recognize the commission of such crimes. 

The protests, sparked by the tragic death of Mahsa Zhina Amini in detention, were met with brutal force, resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives and leaving numerous individuals with irreversible injuries. The disproportionate and indiscriminate use of force by security forces against peaceful demonstrators represents a blatant disregard for the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Iranian people.

The documented violations, including extra-judicial killings, torture, rape, enforced disappearances, and gender persecution, underscore the urgent need for accountability and justice for the victims and survivors.

The comprehensive report by the FFMI emphasizes the the need for immediate action to address the systemic impunity enjoyed by perpetrators of human rights violations in Iran and crimes under International law. 

The government’s systematic denial of due process and fair trial, coupled with its continued repression of dissent and denial of basic rights, perpetuates a culture of impunity for violations dating back decades. 

HRA’s Spreading Justice Initiative (SJ) welcomes the FFMI’s dedication to documenting those responsible and conducting investigations into the identities of the direct perpetrators who committed, ordered, solicited, or induced the commission of violations. SJ believes this type of investigation is crucial.

HRA further welcomes the discussion on avenues for accountability outside the Islamic Republic of Iran and encourages Member States to explore avenues for international and domestic accountability as recommended in the report. 

Skylar Thompson, Director of Advocacy and Accountability, when speaking about the findings today, said “Recognizing crimes against humanity that have been committed paves a real path forward, opening the door to additional domestic and international accountability mechanisms. It also assures that victims know they are seen and heard. A failure to to recognize the gravity of crimes perpetrated by Iranian authorities in the context of the protests would have been a grave failure for the very women and girls who have suffered for so long. Instead, these findings offer a glimmer of hope. Now, it is absolutely essential that Member States ensure the mandate is extended alongside the Special Rapporteur.”

HRA looks forward to engaging with Member States, partners, and the FFMI throughout the session.

HRANA – In a powerful call to action on International Women’s Day, Human Rights Activists demand an immediate expansion of the International Fact Finding Mission on Iran’s mandate, spotlighting systemic gender discrimination and human rights abuses. Amidst the backdrop of the United Nations Human Rights Council’s 55th session, this plea emphasizes the dire situation of Iranian women, facing executions, forced hijab regulations, and violent oppression. Urging global attention, the activists seek to unveil the layers of injustice and push for accountability within the Islamic Republic of Iran, aiming for a future where women’s rights are unequivocally respected.

Read the full statement of Human Rights Activists in Iran below

Introduction 

March 8th marks International Women’s Day, a global observance dedicated to envisioning a world free from bias, stereotypes, and discrimination, where diversity, equity, and inclusivity thrive. Unfortunately, in Iran, women continue to grapple with entrenched gender disparities amidst persistent abuse, violence, and legal obstacles. Despite nationwide protests engaging all segments of society and the courageous defiance of Iranian women against fear, the ruling elite persists in enforcing draconian sentences and oppressive legislation.

Human Rights Council 55th Session:

The fifty-fifth regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council commenced on February 26, 2024. On March 18, the International Fact Finding Mission on Iran (FFMI) is scheduled to present its findings to the HRC regarding allegations of human rights violations by Iran after September 16, 2022. Human Rights Activists (HRA), with legal support from UpRights, in the submission to the FFMI,  have concluded that there are reasonable grounds to believe that crimes against humanity, including gender and political persecution, have occurred in the Islamic Republic of Iran since at least September 16, 2022.

Current Human Rights Situation: 

The ongoing state of women’s rights in Iran remains deeply concerning. On the 31st of January, Zahra Nazarian, a 27-year-old inmate was executed, marking her as the first known woman to be executed in 2024. Iran has the highest rate of female executions globally, with many cases being intertwined with broader societal issues, including instances of domestic violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Additionally, over the past 10 months at least 100 girls were killed by their male relatives, often related to issues of family disputes or so called ‘honor-killings. 

Since the commencement of the 2022 protests, in a significant number of cases, the Iranian judiciary has been using defendant’s online activity in their trials. Recently, Leila Nakhdi Pari, a member of the Board of Directors of the Iranian Cinema Designers Association, was sentenced by Tehran Criminal Court No. 2 to pay a fine, cancel her passport and be banned from leaving the country for eighteen months. She was at the  funeral of Daryush Mehrjui, a prominent filmmaker, where an image of her was uploaded with her not wearing a hijab while at the funeral. For an in-depth look at the situation of imprisoned women in Iran, reference the HRANA Report: Comprehensive List of Female Political Prisoners in Iran

The enforcement of mandatory hijab regulations persists, resulting in numerous arrests, imprisonments, and severe sentences being imported by authorities, exacerbating human rights violations.  

Roya Heshmati, a Kurdish woman, faced a distressing ordeal recently when she received a sentence of 74 lashes. Her arrest stemmed from posting pictures online without a hijab, an act of protest by Heshmati. The sentence was executed on January 3rd, and she later shared her harrowing experience: 

“The judge said, ‘Don’t hit too hard.’ The man started hitting me hard. My shoulders, my back, my buttocks, my face, my legs. I lost count of the number of lashes. Under my breath, I was reciting in the name of woman, in the name of life, the garment of slavery was torn, our dark night turns into dawn, all the shackles break”

The United Nations has previously regarded forms of corporal punishment as a violation of the absolute prohibition of torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment, which is enshrined as a fundamental right under international law.

For an in-depth look at individuals and institutions involved in serious human rights violations related to women’s rights in Iran reference the Spreading Justice report: The State of Women’s Rights in Iran: Institutional and Individual Violations

Hijab and  Chastity Bill 

The contentious “Hijab and Chastity Bill,” resubmitted to the Guardian Council by the Iranian Parliament, follows President Ebrahim Raisi’s commitment to allocate necessary implementation funds. Parliament’s scrutiny of the bill, fraught with disputes and delays due to numerous inconsistencies and errors, reflects its contentious nature. Despite criticism from certain members, the bill advances with President Raisi’s approval and budget allocation. Introduced by Raisi’s government in May, the bill advocates severe penalties for violating mandatory hijab regulations, classifying non-compliance as “nudity.” Offenders risk substantial fines, job loss, social media bans, and imprisonment. Despite intensified enforcement efforts by the Ministry of Interior, a growing number of Iranian women assert their agency by appearing in public without head coverings.

Conclusion

The situation of women in Iran remains deeply concerning, as the Iranian government systematically targets them based on gender. This systematic discrimination is evident through the use of derogatory language, degrading sentences, and heinous acts such as sexual violence and rape.

HRA strongly urges for the renewal and expansion of the FFMI mandate. Enlarging the mandate is crucial for conducting a thorough analysis of the structural issues underlying both current and historical violations against women. Moreover, an expanded mandate would empower investigators to scrutinize individual accountability for serious violations, effectively bridging the widening accountability gap within the Islamic Republic of Iran, aligning with international legal frameworks.

For more information please contact Skylar Thompson, Director of Global Advocacy and Accountability at Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) skylar[at]hramail.com

HRANA – The state of women’s rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran is a critical concern, marked by systemic and pervasive violations deeply rooted in both the legal and societal frameworks. This report seeks to unpack the complex landscape of gender-based discrimination, highlighting the institutional and individual practices that significantly undermine the autonomy, dignity, and freedoms of Iranian women. At the heart of these violations lies a legal system marred by gender inequality, with laws that span from the constitutional to the civil and penal codes, all of which collectively disadvantage women in critical areas of life such as marriage, divorce, inheritance, and parental rights.

Further extending its scope which published by Spreading Justice, this investigation not only examines the legal codifications but also ventures into the public domain, where regulations on modesty, public conduct, and the mandatory hijab further restrict women’s rights. By exposing the specific roles and actions of key actors within the judiciary, law enforcement, and legislative arenas, this report aims to shed light on the systemic entrenchment of gender disparities. Through detailed analysis and case studies, it underscores the urgency of addressing these profound inequities.

The Judiciary Fails to Guarantee Women’s Rights

In the intricate landscape of Iran’s human rights challenges, the judiciary plays a pivotal role, oscillating between neglect and active suppression of women’s rights. This dynamic is glaringly apparent in the treatment of female prisoners, journalists, activists, and those defying the mandatory hijab regulations. Through both action and inaction, the judiciary not only deepens the suffering of these individuals but also signals a systemic incapacity to safeguard fundamental freedoms.

The Revolutionary Court of Rasht’s recent trial initiation against twelve women’s rights advocates is a testament to this ongoing repression. On February 29, 2024, the court began proceedings against Forough Saminia, Sara Jahani, Zahra Dadras, Yasamin Hashdari, Shiva Shah Sia, Negin Rezaie, Vahedeh Khoshsirat, Azadeh Chavoshian, Zohreh Dadras, Matin Yazdani, Hooman Taheri, and Jelveh Javaheri. Charged with “membership in a group, assembly, and collusion to act against national security” and similar accusations, these individuals’ experiences reflect the broader pattern of targeting activists to quell dissent. Their arrest during a mass detainment in Gilan Province and subsequent conditional release from Lakan Prison in Rasht underline the systematic approach to intimidating and silencing voices advocating for gender equality and human rights.

The case of Roya Heshmati, penalized for her protest against the compulsory hijab with seventy-four lashes, is a harrowing example of the judiciary’s overreach. This incident, dated January 3, 2024, is a grim marker of the severe penalties imposed for perceived non-compliance with state mandates, reflecting a profound disregard for human dignity and freedom. In a text circulating social media, Roya Heshmati recalls the harrowing ordeal, “The judge said not to hit too hard. The man began to hit. My shoulders. My upper arms. My back. My buttocks. My thighs. My calves. Again, from the beginning. I didn’t count the number of strikes. Under my breath, I was chanting for the name of woman, for the name of life, the garment of servitude was torn, our dark night shall turn into dawn, all the whips shall turn into axes.”

Adding to this narrative of repression is the collective sentencing of Maryam Bani-Razi Motlagh, Abdolbagher Amani, Reza Rashidi, and Mohammadreza Rostami by Branch 116 of the Criminal Court in Qom. Their conviction to over 17 months in prison, 148 lashes, and additional penalties for not adhering to the “mandatory hijab” and allegedly hindering the state’s moral policing further exemplifies the judiciary’s stringent enforcement of conservative norms. Presided over by Judge Hossein Soltani, these sentences manifest the judiciary’s commitment to maintaining strict social control through corporal punishment and incarceration, actions that clearly violate international human rights norms.

This oppressive environment extends to the realm of journalism, where female journalists are increasingly targeted, pressured, and arrested. Among them, Niloufar Hamedi and Elaheh Mohammadi, sentenced by infamous Judge Salavati to 13 and 12 years respectively, and Vida Rabani, who received a 6-year and 15-month sentence from Judge Iman Afshari, showcase the severe repercussions for their reporting. Additionally, Saba Azarpeik faced a sentence of 2 years in prison and a 2-year ban from social media activities. The cases of Saeedeh Shafiee and Nasim Soltanbeigi further illuminate the judiciary’s harsh stance, as both were sentenced by Branch 26 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, led by Judge Iman Afshari, to four years and three months in prison. Their sentences included charges of “propaganda against the system” and “assembly and collusion,” with additional restrictions on their freedom to engage in political and social groups and to travel abroad. These instances reflect a broader pattern of the judiciary targeting female journalists, intending to suppress dissent and control the flow of information within Iran.

The above examples highlight the judiciary’s complicity in fostering a climate of fear and repression, particularly against women challenging compulsory hijab laws and advocating for broader freedoms. The actions of judges like Iman Afshari, Abolqasem Salavati, Hossein Soltani, and others, who have imposed heavy sentences on female journalists, activists, and protestors, actively suppress dissent, limit freedom of expression, and encroach on civil liberties, reflecting a pattern of judicial conduct in Iran marked by indifference to prison abuses and a concerted crackdown on female dissent. This underscores a disturbing erosion of basic human rights and freedoms, highlighting a clear contradiction with the Executive Regulations of the Prisons Organization.

List of violators related to this section:

▪️Abolqasem Salavati:the head of Branch 15 of the Revolutionary Court of Tehran
▪️Iman Afshari:head of Branch 26 of the Revolutionary Court of Tehran
▪️Hossein Soltani:The head of the 116th branch of the criminal court NO.2 of Qom
▪️Mohammad-Reza Amouzad:the head and judge of 28th Branch of the Tehran Islamic Revolution Court

Violation of Women’s Rights within Iranian Prisons

1- Deplorable Conditions in Women’s Prisons

One illustration of the erosion of women’s rights in Iran is the conditions within the women’s prisons. Officials at the Amol prison have obstructed the delivery of many donated books to inmates, depriving them of educational and recreational resources. This situation is exacerbated by lacking amenities like libraries and entertainment facilities, such as movie players, which have not been made available to the inmates despite donations and repeated requests. This deprivation seems to stem from the behavior of prison officials and actions contrary to the directives of the Prison Organization.

2-Physical Abuse and Medical Neglect

The experience of female political prisoners in Iran paints a distressing picture of widespread abuse and neglect. Instances like that of Narges Mohammadi, who was reportedly assaulted by an official at Evin Prison‘s infirmary in September 2023 for not wearing the mandatory hijab, are not isolated. Such incidents reveal the harsh realities faced by women behind bars, especially those imprisoned for their political beliefs. Mohammadi’s ordeal began simply because she was assisting a sick fellow inmate, yet it escalated into a physical confrontation over her non-compliance with the hijab rule, as reported by HRANA. This is emblematic of the broader challenges and risks women encounter in Iran’s prisons, where adherence to strict dress codes is enforced with little regard for personal dignity or safety.

Similarly, a year prior, in the women’s ward of the Kermanshah Rehabilitation Center, the situation was no less grim. Prisoners, including Ms. Soheila Hijab, endured severe beatings at the hands of prison guards. Beyond physical abuse, these women often face medical neglect, exacerbating health complications that arise during their detention or because of prolonged incarceration. This neglect starkly violates basic human rights, underscoring a systemic disregard for the welfare of female prisoners.

Such incidents are indicative of the broader issues within Iranian penal institutions, particularly in the treatment of political detainees and the rigid enforcement of dress codes. They also highlight the ongoing struggle against compulsory hijab laws, reflecting the broader societal challenges women face, including those incarcerated, in resisting oppressive mandates.

3- Punitive Measures Against Protesting Inmates

Female prisoners, especially those who dare to protest the inhumane conditions, face punitive measures. These include but are not limited to, solitary confinement, false allegations resulting in new cases, denial of family visits, and even exile to other prisons. For example, following protests in Evin Prison, restrictions on a group of people, have been imposed, severely limiting prisoners involved the rights to make phone calls or receive family visits.

4- An increasing number of executions including of female prisoners

According To the Annual Report of Human Rights Activists (HRA), In 2023, at least 20 women were executed in Iran. One of the cases that caught media attention was the execution of Samira Sabzian Fard. Samira, a woman whose entire life was marred by the inexcusable discrimination faced simply for being a woman in Iran was a victim of child marriage, and domestic brutality, and ultimately, she was sentenced to death, and her life was taken by the state.

5- Transgender and Queer Women’s Experiences in Prison

Transgender women often experience segregation in prisons and despite legally changing their identification to align with their gender identity, transgender women face unique challenges and discrimination within the prison system. Additionally, queer women are scrutinized and stigmatized because of their sexuality. The experiences of transgender and queer women in facilities such as Qarchak and Lakan women’s wards highlight the urgent need for prison reforms to address these injustices and ensure the protection of all inmates’ rights, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. These practices not only violate the principles of dignity and equality enshrined in international human rights treaties but also highlight the critical gaps in protection and respect for LGBTQ+ rights within the Iranian judicial and penal systems.

List of violators related to this section:

▪️ State prison and security and corrective measures organization
▪️ Allah Karam Azizi:the current head of Ghezel Hesar prison.
▪️ Edris Abdi: the current head of Kermanshah Juvenile Detention center
▪️ Hedayat Farzadi:the current head of Evin Prison
▪️ Soghra Khodadai:the head of Qarchak prison
▪️ Mahmoud Torabi: The head of Rasht Central Prison (Lakan Prison)

Legislation Affecting Women’s Rights

Recent legislation in Iran, ostensibly designed to boost the country’s population, cast a long shadow over the rights and autonomy of women. At the heart of these measures is a draft revision of the Penal Code that significantly escalates the penalties associated with abortion, revealing a concerted effort by the government to exert control over women’s reproductive rights and bodily autonomy. This proposed legislation not only seeks to criminalize abortion under a broader range of circumstances but also extends its punitive reach to encompass a wide array of individuals and activities related to the provision of abortion services.

Under the new draft Penal Code, the act of performing an abortion, facilitating the process, or even disseminating information about how to obtain one could result in severe legal consequences. Healthcare professionals, including doctors, midwives, and pharmacists, who are found to assist in the abortion process, could face not only imprisonment but also the revocation of their professional licenses. This aspect of the legislation places a significant burden on medical practitioners, forcing them to navigate the perilous waters between upholding their ethical obligations to provide care and avoiding legal prosecution.

Moreover, the legislation introduces penalties for those who engage in the dissemination of abortion information, targeting educators, activists, and possibly even individuals who share such information in private communications. This move effectively seeks to erase abortion from the public discourse, stifling debate and denying women access to critical information about their reproductive health options.

The implications of this legislative push are profound. By criminalizing abortion and penalizing those who support women’s reproductive choices, the government is not only infringing on women’s rights to make decisions about their bodies but also potentially endangering their health. Women seeking to avoid legal repercussions may turn to unsafe methods to terminate unwanted pregnancies, increasing the risk of complications, injury, or death.

Furthermore, this legislative approach reflects a broader attempt to control and dictate the terms of women’s existence and roles within society, reinforcing traditional gender norms and expectations. It disregards the complex realities of women’s lives, their health, socio-economic conditions, and their right to choose whether and when to have children.

The draft Penal Code’s severe restrictions on abortion in Iran implicate a wide array of governmental bodies and officials in the systemic violation of women’s rights, spanning from the legislative branches responsible for drafting and passing such repressive laws to the judiciary that enforces them through punitive measures against women and healthcare providers.

Lawmakers and legislators are directly accountable for creating laws that infringe on women’s autonomy, while judges and the judiciary uphold these laws, effectively sanctioning the suppression of women’s reproductive rights. The executive branch, including various government officials and policymakers, oversees the implementation and enforcement of these restrictions, further embedding the control over women’s bodies within the state’s legal and social fabric. Law enforcement agencies are the operational arms that execute these policies, arresting and detaining those who seek or provide abortions. Additionally, healthcare regulatory bodies exert control by penalizing medical professionals involved in abortion care, thereby restricting access to safe medical procedures. Together, these entities form a comprehensive network of control that not only restricts women’s rights to make decisions regarding their bodies but also places them at greater risk, underscoring a deep-seated violation of human rights and dignity within the framework of Iranian law and governance.

List of violators related to this section:

▪️ Amir-Hossein Bankipour Fard:the representative of the people of Isfahan in the 11th Islamic Consultative
▪️ Zohre Elahian:the representative of the people of Tehran in the 11th Islamic Consultative
▪️ Hossein Mirzaei:the representative of the people of Isfahan in the 11th Islamic Consultative

Violation of Women’s Rights by the Police and IRGC

The Morality Police, alongside the police forces and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), tasked with upholding Islamic dress codes and moral standards, have employed measures that often escalate into rights violations, including harassment, arbitrary detention, and physical abuse against women.

A notable example of this enforcement is the action taken by Hojjatollah Salari, the commander of the Seyyed al-Shohada IRGC of Hormuz. On May 3, 2023, Salar announced the confiscation of 20 electric motorcycles due to hijab violations as part of the chastity and hijab plan. This operation, aimed at addressing what was described as “the unveiling of drivers and passengers,” underscores the lengths to which the IRGC will go to enforce dress code violations, extending its reach to the confiscation of personal property.

Further exemplifying the aggressive stance on dress code enforcement, the IRGC of Hormuz Island, under Salar’s command, initiated the “Hijab and Chastity” exercise on May 8, 2023. This exercise, conducted in collaboration with local religious and Basij resistance bases, was explicitly designed to combat perceived instances of “improper hijab,” highlighting the comprehensive nature of these campaigns to regulate women’s attire and behavior in public spaces.

The repercussions of these enforcement actions were further amplified on December 24, 2023, when the a security order led to the arrest of 90 people and the issuance of verbal warnings to 380 women for “unveiling” on the beaches of Hormuz Island. The operation also resulted in confiscating personal items and sealing commercial units, illustrating the extensive measures employed to enforce moral codes.

List of violators related to this section:

▪️Moral Security Police 
▪️Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC) 

Violations Against LGBTQ+ Individuals

The rights of transgender individuals in Iran face severe compromises, as evidenced by reported incidents that highlight the broader pattern of human rights abuses against the LGBTQ+ community. There have been reports of coerced confessions, where individuals are pressured into admitting guilt or making statements against their will, as example Suspicious Telegram channels such as Saberian News published forced confessions of Transgender arrestees, SJ is investigating such channels close to the security apparatus. Such practices, often carried out under duress, undermine the justice system’s integrity, and blatantly violate the rights of those involved, casting a long shadow over their dignity, and exposing them to unwarranted public scrutiny and further discrimination.

Interactions with Morality Police frequently lead to the arrest or violent confrontations for transgender individuals, targeted for their appearance or identity in the enforcement of strict moral and dress codes. This aggressive oversight not only infringes upon their rights to self-expression and identity but also subjects them to potential violence and legal consequences, underscoring a punitive approach to moral regulation.

Moreover, the reluctance or outright refusal of law enforcement to file complaints from transgender victims of violence represents a significant barrier to justice. This denial not only exacerbates the victims’ plight but also signals a troubling indifference towards the safety and rights of transgender individuals, perpetuating a cycle of violence and impunity for aggressors.

Adding to this complexity, LGBTQ+ women, in particular, face added pressure following their arrest by security forces. Their sexual orientation is exploited as a tool to coerce confessions, with threats of legal prosecution and the exposure of their sexuality to their families. This unwanted and involuntary outing not only intensifies the pressure on them but also poses risks to their health and lives. The situation was particularly evident during the protests of 2022, highlighting the extreme dangers faced by those whose identities intersect with multiple marginalized statuses. Such practices paint a stark picture of a legal and social environment marked by discrimination, where the basic human rights and protections that should be universally afforded are systematically denied to the transgender community.

Conclusion

This report illuminates the profound and systemic nature of gender inequality in Iran, highlighting how a combination of legal and institutional frameworks, reinforced by specific actors across judiciary, legislative, and law enforcement domains, systematically undermines women’s rights. These entities have been identified as key contributors to a pervasive culture of discrimination and suppression against women.

For more information please contact Skylar Thompson, Director of Global Advocacy and Accountability at Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) skylar[at]hramail.com

 

Ahead of 55th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council,  HRA urges the United Nations Fact Finding Mission on Iran (FFMI) to recognize the potential commission of crimes against humanity in its comprehensive report, tentatively set to be delivered on March 18. Today, before the official opening of the session, HRA releases a redacted version of its submission to the FFMI on the crime against humanity of gender and political persecution in Iran since at least 16 September 2022. 

HRANA, Washington. D.C., As the 55th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council is set to commence next week, HRA remains dedicated to shedding light on the situation of human rights in Iran among Member States and the international community. The session will address various pressing matters, including the situation of human rights in the Islamic Republic of Iran, and notably it will include the presentation of findings by the United Nations Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFMI) tentatively scheduled for March 18th.

Human Rights Activists (HRA) with the legal support of Uprights, on the 8th of December 2023, filed a joint 60-page submission on the crime against humanity of gender and political persecution. The following publication includes a redacted version of the submission presented to the FFMI. The redacted version omits several sensitive cases and protects the privacy of the regime’s victims.

The submission argues that the facts provided to the FFMI by HRA, and two trusted partner organizations should lead the FFMI to conclude that crimes against humanity, and in particular persecution on political and gender grounds, have taken place in the Islamic Republic of Iran since at least 16 September 2022. The submission has been presented in five parts: 1.) Methodology on the collection and verification of the information presented. 2.) The background against which the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests took place, highlighting the existence of a discriminatory legal framework against women, girls and LGBTQI+ individuals, as well as relevant structural issues in the relationship between the Iranian State and its population 3.) The facts surrounding the protests, shedding light on the increased restrictions imposed on women and girls, and the violent response of Iranian authorities to these otherwise peaceful protests 4.) A legal analysis of the facts focusing on the crime against humanity of persecution on gender and political grounds 5.) Recommendations in light of the facts presented.

Given the legal analysis of the facts presented in this submission, HRA urges the FFMI to recognize the potential commission of crimes against humanity, specifically that the crime of persecution on political and gender grounds has taken place in the Islamic Republic of Iran since at least 16 September 2022, in relation to the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests. HRA suggests that based on the information and analysis submitted, these findings should be an integral part of the FFMI’s report set to be delivered on March 18th. The FFMI’s conclusions should emphasize that women, girls and LGBTQI+ individuals perceived as not conforming with or opposing the established gender norms and discriminatory policies have been specifically targeted by the Iranian authorities, their agents and security forces.

 “Critical Preconditions must be met before travel to safeguard accountability and protect human rights”

February 26, 2024
Mister High Commissioner, Madame Deputy High Commissioner

We are writing today to express profound concerns regarding the planned visit of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) to Iran, scheduled to take place from 2 to 5 February 2024. 

While we recognize the importance of engaging with national authorities to address human rights issues, and encourage such engagement, we also recall that, until now, Iran has only engaged with UN mechanisms when such engagement suits their needs–notably to sway public opinion through misinformation at home and abroad. We believe due to evidenced past practice to instrumentalize UN mechanisms, several critical factors must be taken into consideration before proceeding with the visit.

The timing of the proposed visit is highly problematic, given its proximity to the upcoming session of the Human Rights Council (HRC).  There is a considerable risk that Iranian authorities will exploit the visit to undermine support for the renewal of the crucial accountability mechanisms in place–Using this instance of engagement to debunk the factual and evidence based reports set to be delivered in the coming months. Past instances  underscore the need for caution and provide for a need to reconsider the visits timing. 

Given the trip goes forward, HRA has set forth critical issues and preconditions that must be addressed given the trip has been scheduled ahead of any consultation with civil society. 

1. HRA  urges the OHCHR to highlight Iran’s complete lack of cooperation with the FFMI to date. 
2. HRA  urges the OHCHR  to insist on visiting detention centers as a precondition to their visit. The DHC cannot adequately conduct a visit on the situation of executions without a thorough site visit of Iran’s detention centers. The startling numbers: 798 in 2023, and more than 55 since the start of the year alone warrant a clear directive in this regard.
3. HRA urges the OHCHR to insist on meetings with following groups of individuals as a precondition to their visit: dual-national prisoners, including those on death row such as Jamshid Sharmahd and Ahmadreza Jalali, political prisoners from prominent cases of the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement that remain held after trials lacking any semblance of due process, imprisoned political and civil activists, and importantly, the lawyers handling cases despite having been restricted by rules and regulations that fly in the face of international standards of the free and independent exercise of the legal profession and the right to fair trial, most recently observed by Ms. Margaret Satterthwaite and Dr. Javaid Rehran, UN Special Procedures mandate holders.
4. HRA urges the OHCHR to conduct meetings taking steps to ensure the safety and security of all participants and their families throughout.

We appreciate your attention to these concerns and trust that the OHCHR will approach this matter with the utmost diligence and commitment to upholding human rights principles.

Human Rights Activists (In Iran)

For more information please contact Skylar Thompson, Director of Global Advocacy and Accountability at Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) skylar[at]hramail.com