International Community Unites Behind Iranian Protesters Demanding Human Rights
On February 1, 2023, the international community made a loud declaration in defense of the Iranian citizens who have been protesting against the oppressive regime since last September. Signed by 480 individuals from 74 countries and from human rights organizations, the statement calls on governments to provide support to the protesters and their fight for democracy and freedom.

Former US presidential candidate Hilary Clinton, Nobel Prize Laureates, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Canadian writer Margaret Atwood are among the 10 Nobel laureates and dozens of public figures who have added their voices to the collective call for an end to the Islamic Republic’s system of misogyny and dictatorship.

The letter calls for governments to take action in the form of sanctions against those responsible for carrying out the repression and terrorist activities and provides the protesters with technical assistance and equipment. In addition, the statement touches upon classifying the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization.

Since the death of young Masha Amini – arrested for violating the Islamic headscarf dress code – thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets to express their discontent with the government. However, their peaceful demonstrations and calls for human rights have been met with a heavy police repression that has caused victims and arrests, according to NGOs outside of Iran, in addition to the execution of four protesters.

In response, both the US and the EU have imposed severe sanctions against the Iranian government. While they are a step in the right direction, this declaration of international condemnation serves as an important reminder of the urgent call by the protesters for human rights and democracy in Iran.