The systematic repression of lawyers in Iran intensifies as they endure new interrogations and indictments, especially for championing human rights. A coalition of organisations condemns this relentless state-sponsored assault, particularly notable during January and February 2025, revealing a disturbing trend against legal advocates in the country.
On 3 February 2025, Mashhad’s prosecutor’s office issued charges against 15 lawyers for “propaganda against the state.” These charges stemmed from their social media activity that flagged serious human rights violations, socio-economic injustices, and other matters of state policy. Despite attempts to dismiss the case, the Revolutionary Court intervened, leading to official indictments.
Reports indicate that state agents have threatened other lawyers, warning them to refrain from supporting their colleagues. Such intimidation often manifests as threats against personal safety or family members, coupled with disbarment that compromises their ability to earn a living. This tactic effectively stifles the legal community’s independence, creating a chilling atmosphere for those who dare to speak out.
The Iranian judiciary’s lack of autonomy places lawyers in a perilous position, where they face threats, arbitrary detention, and unfair trials for performing their professional duties. Human rights defenders and lawyers advocating for political dissidents or minority rights bear the brunt of this persecution, facing significant personal risks.
Numerous lawyers are currently imprisoned for their dedication to human rights. Notable cases include Mohammad Najafi, in prison since 2018, and Amirsalari Davoudi, sentenced to ten years in 2022 following a previous stint in detention. Other lawyers, like Behnam Nezadi and Seyed Mehdi Karimi Farsi, have recently received prison sentences as the crackdown intensifies.
The dire situation for lawyers in Iran has been highlighted in reports submitted to the Universal Periodic Review of Iran’s human rights record in January 2025. UN experts have revealed that over 66 lawyers have been detained since September 2022, with many imprisoned solely for defending the rights of protestors during the “Women, Life, Freedom” uprising.
Iran’s commitment to international human rights treaties, like the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, mandates support for the rule of law and non-interference with legal representation. The UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers further delineate that lawyers should operate without fear of persecution or threats.
In a clarion call for justice, the undersigned organisations implore Iranian authorities to uphold the rights of lawyers to practice free from intimidation and arbitrary punishment. They demand the immediate release of those unjustly detained and advocate for fair trial rights and due process in accordance with international human rights standards.
These bodies also beseech international human rights mechanisms to persist in monitoring the plight of lawyers in Iran while urging global bar associations to extend practical support to Iranian lawyers, fostering solidarity amidst oppression.
The ongoing state persecution of lawyers in Iran has escalated, leading to fresh indictments and interrogations, particularly against those advocating for human rights. Reports highlight threats against lawyers and the urgency for support from the international community to protect these defenders of justice. Urgent calls for the Iranian government to respect legal rights and ensure fair trials reflect the dire need for systemic change in the face of intensive oppression.
In summary, the relentless persecution of lawyers in Iran signifies a grave threat to human rights and the independence of the legal profession. This crackdown not only endangers the rights of legal practitioners but also severely undermines the rule of law across the nation. The urgent call for action implores the Iranian authorities to respect legal rights and urges global entities to stand in solidarity with those facing injustice.
Original Source: www.frontlinedefenders.org
