The Surge of Executions in Iran: Urgent International Intervention Required
Introduction
The rise of executions continues to spread across Iran. In the first half of 2024, at least 266 prisoners were executed, with the majority of charges being drug-related. Among those executed were 72 Kurds, 42 Turks, 32 Balochs, 23 Afghans, 10 women, and one child, with religious and ethnic minorities facing the brunt of the persecution. According to rights group Hengaw, this execution spree is a continuation of the government’s record year of executions with over 850 carried out in 2023 – making Iran responsible for 74% of executions globally.
The Persecution of Religious and Ethnic Minorities
The targeting of religious and ethnic minorities is a grave concern that requires immediate attention. Hengaw’s report revealed that 72 Kurds, 42 Turks, and 32 Balochs were among those executed in the first half of 2024. The government’s approach toward these groups is nothing short of discriminatory and prejudiced. It is unacceptable that people are being executed based on their ethnicity or religion. Urgent intervention is required to prevent further persecution and human rights violations.
Gender-Based Violence and Discrimination
The execution of ten women in the first half of 2024 is particularly disturbing. It is essential to address the systemic discrimination against women in Iran which ultimately leads to human rights violations, including gender-based violence. The government must take steps to ensure that all citizens, regardless of gender, are treated equally and with dignity.
The Role of Drug-Related Offences
Drug-related offences have become a significant contributor to the rise of executions in Iran. According to Hengaw, the majority of charges have been drug-related. Iran’s approach to drug-related offences needs to be reviewed, and alternative approaches to punishment should be explored. The country must adopt harm-reduction policies that promote prevention and treatment instead of punishment.
The Need for International Intervention
Amnesty International’s report titled “Don’t Let Them Kill Us” calls for urgent international intervention to halt the surge in executions. The international community must adopt a collective approach to hold the Iranian government accountable for human rights violations. Failure to act now will only embolden the Iranian government, making these executions a norm in society.
Conclusion
The surge in executions in Iran and the targeting of minorities is unacceptable. It is time for the international community to come together and act in unison to prevent further persecution. The Iranian government should adopt alternative measures in dealing with drug-related offences and ensure that all citizens are treated equally regardless of ethnicity, gender or religion. Swift and decisive action is required to halt the government’s execution spree and prevent Iranian prisons from becoming grounds for mass executions.
Originally Post From https://www.iranintl.com/en/202407145938
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