Global call to end execution of women in Iran gains momentum

TEHRAN — Over 1,200 individuals from 44 countries have signed a statement demanding an end to the execution of women in Iran, highlighting the urgent cases of two Kurdish political activists facing imminent execution. The statement, endorsed by former political prisoners, women’s rights advocates, and anti-death penalty activists, calls for increased international pressure on the Iranian government.

Growing Movement Against Executions

The statement, signed by eight imprisoned women activists, has been circulated to more than 100 feminist organizations, human rights groups, and anti-death penalty networks. It underscores the plight of Warisha Moradi and Pakhshan Azizi, two Kurdish political detainees whose lives hang in the balance.

Iran’s Alarming Record on Capital Punishment

Iran continues to rank among the world’s top executioners. In 2023 alone, at least 853 executions were carried out, including 24 women. Human rights organizations estimate that at least 55 prisoners are currently on death row in Iran for political or security-related charges.

Demands for International Action

The statement urges the global community to intensify pressure on Tehran to halt the execution of Moradi and Azizi and to support Iranian women in their fight against political violence and repression. It also calls for accountability for Iranian officials implicated in human rights violations.

Urgent Calls for Intervention

Both Amnesty International and the Iran Human Rights Organization have issued urgent appeals to prevent the executions. They warn that the Iranian government is weaponizing capital punishment against women and political dissidents, using it as a tool of repression and control.