In a compelling joint statement dated February 25, 2025, various organisations implore the Turkish government to immediately halt the impending deportation of Nahid Modarresi, an Iranian activist. Facing life-threatening risks of persecution, imprisonment, and torture if returned to Iran, Modarresi’s case illustrates the perilous situation Iranian refugees face in Turkey amid cries for justice and recognition.
Modarresi fled to Turkey in 2018 as a member of the vulnerable LGBTQ+ community in Iran, where political dissent is met with brutal crackdowns, including executions of activists. With her life hanging in the balance, she remarks, “My life is in danger. If I get sent back to Iran, they will arrest me and maybe execute me.”
Her activism has intensified following her sister Elham’s wrongful imprisonment in Iran for standing up during protests. Elham was tortured and denied medical care but later escaped to Turkey. Nahid has been advocating for her sister’s health amid these tribulations, yet now finds herself at risk of deportation back to the very regime she fled.
Despite her temporary refugee protection status granted by the UNHCR, Turkish authorities revoked this in April 2023, leaving Modarresi without recourse. A recent court ruling has extinguished any legal options to challenge this decision, intensifying her sense of imminent threat.
Her lawyer works diligently on securing resettlement in Canada, where her sister currently stays, and has identified potential sponsors for her case. Advocates urgently call for the Turkish government to reverse any deportation efforts, respect international humanitarian laws, and protect those fleeing from persecution.
Additionally, there’s a rallying cry for global bodies, including the UN and various governments, to step in and safeguard the rights of Iranian citizens like Modarresi. The call is clear; the world cannot afford to stand idle while one more courageous voice is silenced by an oppressive regime.
A joint plea urges Turkey to cease the deportation of Iranian activist Nahid Modarresi, who faces severe dangers if returned to Iran. With her life at risk and her refugee status revoked, Modarresi’s activism for human rights continues amid threats of imprisonment and torture. Calls intensify for international intervention to protect individuals fleeing persecution under the Iranian regime.
In summary, the plight of Nahid Modarresi underscores the grave risks Iranian dissidents face. The Turkish government’s potential deportation poses a direct threat to her life, violating human rights principles. As international appeals grow for her protection and that of others like her, it is crucial for the global community to respond affirmatively and safeguard activists fleeing persecution.
Original Source: iranhumanrights.org
