November 26, 2022

Stop Iran from executing demonstrators!

topic:	Human Rights
tags:	#Iran, #Iran protests, #activism, #Masha Amini
located:	Iran
by:	Quinta Thomson

Tens of thousands of protesters have been detained by the Islamic Republic's authorities in response to the ongoing demonstrations in the country. As of Sunday, the first death sentence has been issued against a demonstrator.

Earlier this month, 272 of Iran’s 290 lawmakers voted to implement the death penalty for "serious crimes against the state" and called for the "execution of the protestors sentenced to war as soon as possible."

According to Iran Human Rights, over the past 58 days of protests, security forces have killed at least 326 people, including 43 children.

The protests, sparked by the brutal killing of 22 year-old Mahsa Amini, have rocked the Islamic Republic and been challenging its authoritarian regime. And even with the world watching, the Iranian government continues to persecute and kill protesting civilians. 

The unnamed victim of Iran’s crackdown is said to have been sentenced for "setting fire to a government centres, disturbing public order and collusion for committing crimes against national security," as well as "moharebeh" (waging war against God).

It is estimated that at least 20 protesters are currently facing charges punishable by death. Some have taken a stand on social media agains the execution of Mohammad Ghobadlou, Mohsen Rezazadeh, Samen Seydi, Mohammad Boroghani, Saeed Shirazi, Abolfazl Mehri Hossein, Abbas Daris, Manouchehr Mehman Navaz and Sohei Khashdel.

In response, the director of Iran Human Rights has stated that "The international community must strongly warn the Islamic Republic of the consequence of executing protestors." The "consequences" considered are the possible summoning of ambassadors and implementing stronger effective human rights action against state officials. 

Despite the need for a broader and more resolute global response, individuals can still play a part in supporting demonstrators and defending their human rights.

You may sign this petition which calls on the international community, United Nations and European Union to speak up against the unfair trials and death sentences of protesters.

Also, by sharing the names and stories of imprisoned protesters and activists you can help raise awareness and maintain vital attention on individual cases.

Follow organisations like MiddleEastMatters on social media to attend local protests and events in support of Iran or organise them yourself!

Two commonly used protest suppression tactics are internet shutdowns and communication blockades. You can support the Tor Project’s Snowflake proxy to help Iranians circumvent censorship and keep communication lines open. 

Finally, although there isn't one association organising the current protests in Iran, you can support these fearless activists by donating to Iran’s Centre for Human Rights, Iran Rights or Human Rights Watch. 

Image by Shima Abedinzade.