The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has expressed grave concern over Iran’s recent escalation of repression targeting women’s rights and freedom of expression.
Surge in Detentions and Business Closures
The UN documented a disturbing rise in detentions of women and girls for alleged violations of mandatory head-covering laws. Alarmingly, hundreds of businesses have also been shuttered for failing to meet the increasingly stringent enforcement standards set by the morality police. This crackdown follows a public announcement by Iranian authorities to intensify enforcement of hijab regulations.
Silencing Dissent After Protests
These actions by the Iranian government appear to be a calculated attempt to silence dissent. In late 2022, widespread protests erupted across Iran in response to the death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who was detained by the morality police for “improper” hijab. Following these protests, Iranian women have been more courageous and defiant in challenging the mandatory hijab rules. The current surge in detentions and business closures appears to be a heavy-handed attempt to intimidate and discourage further acts of defiance.
Harsh Punishments Denounced
Mr. Türk vehemently denounced a proposed law that would impose draconian punishments, including lengthy prison sentences and flogging, for failing to adhere to the head-covering regulations. He implored the Iranian government to dismantle all structures and practices that perpetuate sex-based discrimination and violence. The proposed law represents a further erosion of women’s rights in Iran and a blatant disregard for international human rights norms.
Death Sentence for Rapper Draws Criticism
The UN High Commissioner also spoke out against the death sentence imposed on 33-year-old rapper Toomaj Salehi. Salehi’s music fearlessly tackled political corruption and served as a powerful voice of dissent during the 2022 protests. His execution would send a chilling message to anyone who dares to criticize the Iranian government.
Executions for Protests
Mr Türk’s office confirmed that nine men have been executed for their participation in the demonstrations that erupted after Mahsa Amini’s death. These executions are a blatant violation of the right to life and freedom of assembly. The UN calls for an immediate halt to all executions in Iran.
The UN’s strong condemnation sends a clear message to Iran that these actions constitute egregious violations of fundamental human rights. The international community must come together to pressure Iran to end its crackdown on women’s rights and freedom of expression. We urge the Iranian government to respect its obligations under international law and uphold the basic rights of all its citizens.
