Human Rights Defenders in Iran fight for justice, despite the death penalty
On this World Day Against the Death Penalty, we recognize the courage of individuals and human rights defenders in Iran who, despite the threat of death in a repressive environment, continue to fight for justice. Iran ranks among the countries with the highest number of executions worldwide, executing political dissenters and human rights defenders. In August 2024, there was an alarming surge in executions, with at least 93 individuals executed, twice as many as in July. The reported number of executions in 2024 has already risen above 400, while over 500 people were executed in 2023 alone, many for vague charges such as “enmity against God” and “spreading corruption on earth.”
The death penalty in Iran represents a profound violation of human rights, particularly the absolute prohibition of torture and other cruel and inhuman punishment. Despite this oppressive atmosphere, courageous individuals continue to raise their voices in their fight for justice and dignity. This article features the interviews with L.B., who was sentenced to death on charges of insulting the Islamic prophet Muhammad in a social media post, but later had his punishment reduced to several years in prison and internal exile, and with Sholeh Pakravan, the mother of Reyhane Jabbari, who was hanged in 2014 for killing her alleged rapist. Their experiences highlight the harsh realities of the Iranian judicial system.
What motivates you to fight for justice despite oppression and persecution?
L.B.: My struggle began with childhood observations of injustice. After being imprisoned and sentenced to death, my resolve intensified. Prison became a brutal university, revealing government atrocities and the sacrifices of justice seekers. Witnessing the suffering of fellow prisoners and the government's brutal tactics instilled a sense of responsibility in me. I realized I couldn't remain silent while others were oppressed. While my death sentence aimed to silence me, it only strengthened my commitment. The path ahead is challenging, but my dedication to fighting for justice and supporting those suffering under this oppressive regime has deepened.
Sholeh Pakravan: Years of fighting against the Iranian judiciary’s corruption transformed my grief into a powerful drive for change. The execution of my daughter caused me immense pain, and I refuse to let any other mother suffer like this. Reyhane initiated a campaign against the death penalty in prison, supporting her fellow inmates. I am determined to continue her legacy, advocating for justice and raising awareness about the injustices in the Iranian system. This fight honours her memory and aims to prevent other families from enduring similar tragedies. I refuse to remain silent while the system takes innocent lives.
What human rights violations did you witness or experience?
L.B.: In prison, I witnessed severe human rights violations, including torture and psychological abuse. Authorities manipulated family members to break prisoners’ spirits, employing tactics like forced divorces. This emotional torture left deep scars on both prisoners and their families. The state’s oppressive actions aimed to dismantle our will to resist. These violations highlight the urgent need for systemic change and accountability in Iran, impacting our lives and communities.
Sholeh Pakravan: During my fight for Reyhane, I faced numerous human rights violations, particularly the lack of transparency in her case. We received constant misinformation while the judiciary’s corruption ran rampant. Denied access to Reyhane for months, we felt treated as criminals. The emotional and psychological abuse my family endured was devastating. This ordeal made me realise Reyhane’s fight was not just personal; it was a struggle against a flawed system that disregards human dignity.
What are the emotional and psychological impacts on families affected by the death penalty?
L.B.: I empathise deeply with families enduring the trauma of having loved ones on death row. Such a situation devastates the individual and their families. The emotional turmoil, fear, and uncertainty weigh heavily on loved ones, creating a sense of helplessness. It’s a cruel punishment that leaves lasting emotional scars. The pain experienced by families must be recognised in the broader conversation surrounding the death penalty and human rights violations in Iran.
Sholeh Pakravan: Reyhane’s time on death row was a nightmare for our family. The fear and uncertainty were unbearable; we lived in constant dread of execution news. For over two years, we had only phone contact, which took an immense emotional toll. I often felt lost and hopeless, manipulated by officials offering false hope. This experience shattered my heart and changed our family dynamics forever, leaving us grappling with profound grief and loss.
What message do you want to convey to those fighting against the death penalty and for justice in Iran?
L.B.: To those fighting for justice in Iran, stay resilient in the face of adversity. The struggle is long and often challenging, but your voices matter. Each act of resistance contributes to the larger fight for human rights. Even in the darkest times, hope is a powerful ally. Your courage can inspire change, and collective action is crucial in dismantling injustice. Together, we can create a future where dignity and justice prevail.
Sholeh Pakravan: To those advocating for justice in Iran, keep pushing for change, no matter how daunting the path may seem. The system is rigged against us, but our voices must continue to rise for the silenced. We are not alone in this fight; by sharing our stories, we inspire others to join the struggle against inhumanity. The death penalty must be eradicated, and we owe it to future generations to create a better world. Together, we can make a difference.
The intertwined stories of L.B. and Sholeh Pakravan highlight the deep injustices of the death penalty in Iran. Their resilience against state oppression serves as a powerful testament to the ongoing fight for justice. Despite the state's efforts to silence them, their voices echo loudly, urging the international community not only to stand in solidarity with those who continue to fight for dignity and human rights, but also to actively work towards the global abolition of the death penalty.
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