In a move that has stirred international uproar, independent human rights experts have expressed deep concern over the Iranian Supreme Court’s recent confirmation of the death sentence for Pakhshan Azizi, a courageous Kurdish activist. The experts assert that the charges against her do not align with the serious crimes that international law requires for capital punishment, labeling the decision as a significant violation of human rights.
Apprehended in August 2023 by Iranian Intelligence, Azizi faced grim conditions during her five-month detention, particularly in Evin Prison’s notorious Ward 209 where she endured both physical and psychological torture. Her death sentence, rendered by a revolutionary court, is linked to vague charges of armed rebellion and affiliations with opposition groups.
The experts underline that Azizi’s work as a social worker, which includes supporting refugees, is both commendable and legitimate, contrasting sharply with the charges laid against her. The case vividly showcases rampant human rights abuses in Iran, including forced confessions, lack of legal representation, and pressure tactics against her family.
Specifically concerning is the increased targeting of Kurdish women activists like Azizi, amid a wider context of systemic persecution. The experts express heightened alarm at the alarming trend, noting that the Iranian regime’s actions create a climate of fear aimed at silencing dissenting voices among women activists.
In their statement, the experts called upon Iranian authorities to take immediate action by revoking Azizi’s death sentence, conducting thorough investigations into torture claims, and ceasing the harassment of women activists. This push reflects a collective call for respecting human rights, with repeated warnings about the arbitrariness and injustice surrounding Azizi’s case.
– Iranian Supreme Court upheld death sentence for Kurdish activist Pakhshan Azizi. – Experts deem charges unfounded, violating international law. – Azizi endured torture and denial of fair trial rights. – Increased targeting of Kurdish women activists noted. – Calls for revocation of her sentence and investigation into violations.
The uphold of Pakhshan Azizi’s death sentence echoes serious human rights violations in Iran, reinforcing concerns regarding justice and the specific targeting of minority activists. The urgent calls for revocation of her sentence and the cessation of harassment against women activists signal a dire need for reform. It is imperative that the Iranian authorities heed these calls to align with international human rights standards.
The ongoing situation in Iran showcases a series of troubling patterns, particularly regarding the treatment of human rights activists and Kurdish women. This case highlights a broader trend of systemic oppression against minority groups, emphasizing the precariousness of human rights in Iran. The involvement of independent human rights experts illustrates international scrutiny aimed at ensuring accountability and transparency within the Iranian judiciary.
Original Source: irannewsupdate.com
