In the wake of the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests which ignited in September 2022, the Iranian government persists in tightening its grip on rights and freedoms, particularly for women and dissenters, as reported by the UN’s Independent International Fact-Finding Mission. Two and a half years on, their findings reveal a systematic suppression of demands for human rights, contradicted by the current President’s earlier promises to ease hijab enforcement.
The introduction of the “Noor plan” since April 2024 has led to intensified policing of women rejecting mandatory hijab laws, with numerous activists facing severe repercussions, including imprisonment and even the death penalty. The report underscores the alarming trend of increasing state-sponsored vigilantism, painting a bleak picture for activists merely seeking justice and equality.
Sara Hossain, the chair of the Fact-Finding Mission, expressed deep concern over the government’s unwillingness to acknowledge the demands ignited by the protests. This extends to the persistent persecution of not only protesters but also their families and human rights advocates. Intimidation tactics keep victims from voicing their pain, while many have fled Iran amidst growing dangers.
The report highlights a worrying expansion of digital surveillance, extending beyond Iran’s borders to silence critics abroad, with at least ten men executed in connection to the protests. Violations of the right to a fair trial are rampant, adding to fears concerning the judicial system’s integrity, leaving victims feeling helpless and unsupported.
Over the last two years, the Fact-Finding Mission has meticulously gathered evidence—interviews with 285 victims and extensive investigative work—confirming gross human rights abuses and crimes akin to humanity. The investigation has uncovered harrowing accounts of violence against women, including cases of gang rape during protests, while vulnerable demographics such as children and minorities suffer disproportionately.
The Mission has expanded its probe into the state’s apparatus, mapping the roles of security and judiciary bodies in human rights violations. With an emphasis on accountability, the report calls for sustained efforts to address the systemic discrimination faced by various communities within Iran, including Kurds and LGBTQ+ persons.
To grapple with these complex violations, the report urges the Human Rights Council to establish an independent body for ongoing investigations into human rights transgressions, arguing that victims deserve the right to truth and justice. Emphasis on collaboration between international bodies to foster redress and prevent future abuses remains crucial, as affirmed by Viviana Krsticevic, expert member of the Mission.
This narrative of oppression unfolds against a backdrop of profound societal fractures, exacerbating discrimination based on gender, ethnicity, and beliefs. The Mission’s findings present a stark reminder of Iran’s desperate need for a transformative shift towards accountability and justice.
The Iranian government is intensifying repression against women and dissenters post-protests, according to a UN report. Despite pre-election promises, measures have emerged that crack down on rights, especially through increased surveillance and policing. Activists face severe punishment, with executions and unfair trials reported. The Fact-Finding Mission calls for ongoing investigations to address systemic discrimination and human rights violations, recommending the establishment of a new independent body.
The findings of the UN’s Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran reveal a dire situation for human rights in the wake of the 2022 protests. The Iranian government’s continued repression, particularly against women and dissenters, calls for urgent international attention and action. Establishing an independent body for ongoing investigations into these violations is deemed critical for promoting accountability and fostering an environment where victims can pursue justice without fear of retaliation.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
