Independent human rights experts associated with the United Nations have issued a grave warning regarding the alarming trend of systematic persecution against Baha’i women in Iran. This joint letter, released on Tuesday, expressed deep concern over incidents of arrests, enforced disappearances, and relentless interrogations targeting these women, highlighting their experiences behind bars—including enforced isolation and lengthy detentions without fair legal proceedings.
The experts emphasized that Baha’i women constitute two-thirds of the Baha’i prisoner population in Iran, many of whom are held incommunicado. This rise in persecution serves as a disturbing indication of escalating gender discrimination and intensified persecution of religious minorities within the country. “This dramatic rise in persecution against Baha’i women is an alarming escalation,” they underscored, alluding to the broader struggle for women’s rights in Iran.
Pointing out the compounded discrimination faced by Baha’i women due to both their gender and religion, the experts voiced fears of implications for the community’s human rights. Not only do Baha’is in Iran suffer the loss of basic freedoms like education and public employment, but they also confront vague accusations that infringe on their rights, such as ‘national security threats’ and ‘propaganda against the State,’ which could deter peaceful expression and activism.
The experts, part of the UN Human Rights Council’s Special Procedures, directly communicated their concerns to Iranian authorities. However, Iran’s government insisted that Baha’is live without restrictions. Ironically, shortly after this declaration, reports emerged of ten Baha’i women sentenced to a collective total of 90 years in prison in Isfahan, starkly contrasting the government’s claims with the distressing reality.
Additionally, the Baha’i International Community highlighted that Mahvash Sabet, a 71-year-old Baha’i prisoner, was urgent needing medical care following heart surgery that she had been denied for years. They urged for her immediate release, ensuring she would not face further imprisonment. This atmosphere of fear further complicates the situation for Baha’is, revealing a grave violation of their fundamental rights.
UN human rights experts are alarmed by the rise in systematic persecution of Baha’i women in Iran. Their report highlights arrests, enforced disappearances, and significant legal issues faced by this minority. Despite the Iranian government’s claims of respect for Baha’i rights, incidents contradict this narrative, revealing ongoing discrimination and human rights violations within the community.
The UN rights experts’ warnings highlight a critical human rights issue regarding the systemic targeting of Baha’i women in Iran. Despite the Iranian government’s denial of such persecution, the stark reality of severe legal penalties and ongoing neglect of health and educational rights indicates a troubling trend. Protecting these individuals and ensuring their basic freedoms are paramount in a society striving for equality and justice.
The plight of Baha’is in Iran has a long and troubled history. As a religious minority, they have faced systemic persecution characterized by restrictions on their rights, discrimination, and violence. The Iranian government has consistently denied Baha’is access to higher education, public employment, and safe participation in cultural life. This systemic oppression is heightened for Baha’i women, who endure both gender and religious discrimination, making their situation particularly precarious.
Original Source: www.iranintl.com
