Dear Human Rights Advocates,
We are writing on behalf of Iranska Föreningen mot Avrättningar urgently appeal for your immediate intervention to halt the impending executions of Pakhshan Azizi and Sharifeh Mohammadi, two Iranian women who have been unjustly sentenced to death on charges of “Baghi.” This charge, which translates to “armed rebellion against the state,” has been increasingly used by Iranian authorities to silence dissent and crush opposition, particularly targeting women who have been vocal in their pursuit of justice and equality.
“Baghi” is a charge that carries the most severe penalties, including the death sentence, and is often used broadly and without substantial evidence to suppress political activism and human rights advocacy. The accused individuals are frequently denied fair trials and subjected to torture and coercion to extract confessions.
Pakhshan Azizi, a Kurdish social worker and women’s rights activist, has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights of marginalized communities in Iran. She was arrested in August 2022 and has since been held in appalling conditions, subjected to torture, and deprived of her legal rights. Pakhshan was accused of “Baghi” due to her alleged affiliation with groups opposing the government, a claim she denies and believes she has been charged with Baghi because she is a Kurd, a woman, and a women’s rights activist.
Sharifeh Mohammadi, another courageous activist, has similarly been targeted for her involvement in labor rights movements and her outspoken criticism of state policies. She was arrested and accused of “Baghi” for her supposed links to banned organizations, again without credible evidence or due process. Sharifeh’s case is emblematic of the broader crackdown on activists who dare to challenge the status quo and advocate for fundamental human rights.
The use of “Baghi” charges against activists like Pakhshan Azizi and Sharifeh Mohammadi is a blatant violation of their human rights and an egregious abuse of judicial power. These women represent the resilience and courage of countless others who risk their lives daily for justice and freedom.
We call upon all human rights organizations, international bodies, and concerned individuals to:
- Condemn the Use of “Baghi” Charges: Publicly denounce the misuse of “Baghi” charges as a tool of political repression.
- Pressure the Iranian Government: Demand the immediate release of Pakhshan Azizi and Sharifeh Mohammadi and an end to the use of torture and coercion in extracting confessions.
- Support Legal and Humanitarian Aid: Provide necessary legal assistance and humanitarian support to the families of those unjustly imprisoned.
- Raise Global Awareness: Amplify the stories of Pakhshan Azizi, Sharifeh Mohammadi, and others facing similar charges to garner international support and solidarity.
The international community must not remain silent in the face of such grave injustices. The lives of Pakhshan Azizi and Sharifeh Mohammadi hang in the balance, and it is our collective responsibility to act swiftly and decisively to prevent their executions. Your support can make a difference and help ensure that justice prevails.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter
Iranska Föreningen mot Avrättningar
