Iran: On 2nd Anniversary of Woman, Life, Freedom: Urgent Call for Release of Women Human Rights Defenders

The protests began after the death of Mahsa Jina Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish-Iranian woman, in police custody. Her death led to widespread demonstrations across the country, with women removing their hijabs and marginalized communities like Kurds and Baluchis joining in solidarity. The movement quickly became a symbol of resistance against gender-based oppression.

During the protests, thousands were arrested, with many subjected to torture and abuse. Ethnic minority regions suffered particularly harsh crackdowns, and at least 11 protesters were executed. Human rights groups estimate that over 20,000 people were imprisoned in overcrowded and poor conditions. In February 2023, the Iranian government granted amnesty to over 22,000 detainees, though many women activists remain behind bars.

Despite the amnesty, feminist activists and women’s rights defenders continue to face arrest and imprisonment. These women have played a key role in pushing for change, often using hunger strikes and protests from within prison walls to keep the movement alive. At least 25 women human rights defenders associated with the Woman, Life, Freedom movement remain imprisoned, with many more at risk.

OMCT and co-signatories urge Iranian authorities to:

• Immediately release all women human rights defenders and other activists.
• End systematic violence and discrimination against women.
• Repeal the compulsory hijab law and uphold bodily autonomy.
• Abolish the death penalty, especially for women human rights defenders.

The statement also calls on international and feminist organizations to continue their advocacy efforts and pressure Iranian authorities to ensure the safety of those in detention.

Signatories:
ARC-Asia Protection Network, AWID, Femena, Front Line Defenders, Gulf Centre for Human Rights, Human Rights Watch, Kurdistan Human Rights Network, Kurdpa, Miaan Group, OMCT, Regional Coalition of WHRDs in SWANA, Women Human Rights Defenders International Coalition (WHRDIC)