As we delve into the harrowing realities faced by political prisoners in Iran, I’m joined by Desiree Sainthrope, a legal expert with extensive experience in international human rights law and advocacy. With a deep understanding of oppressive regimes and the challenges faced by the legal profession under such systems, Desiree offers critical insights into the urgent case of Taher Naqavi, an imprisoned lawyer in Iran’s notorious Evin Prison. Today, we’ll explore the systemic abuses highlighted by a courageous letter from Naqavi’s fellow imprisoned lawyers, the dire state of medical care for political prisoners, the broader human rights crisis in Iran, and the international community’s role in addressing these injustices.
Can you walk us through the situation of Taher Naqavi and the specific challenges he’s facing in Evin Prison?
Certainly. Taher Naqavi, a lawyer and member of the Tehran Bar Association, has been imprisoned in Evin Prison since February 2024, following charges and a conviction that appear to be tied to his legal advocacy. He’s in critical condition, suffering from multiple spinal fractures and severe prostate disease, which cause him immense pain. The prison conditions are abysmal, lacking the necessary medical facilities or specialized care he desperately needs. His health has deteriorated significantly due to this neglect, and despite clear evidence in his medical file, no meaningful action has been taken to provide him with treatment outside the prison.
How does the lack of medical care for prisoners like Naqavi reflect the broader treatment of political prisoners in Iran?
The denial of medical care to Taher Naqavi is not an isolated incident but part of a systemic pattern of abuse against political prisoners in Iran. Medical neglect is often used as a form of silent punishment, exacerbating the suffering of those already unjustly detained. Many prisoners, especially lawyers and activists, face similar situations where their urgent health needs are ignored, in direct violation of both Iranian law and international standards. It’s a deliberate tactic to break their spirit and silence dissent, showing a profound disregard for human life and dignity.
What specific laws or protections should be safeguarding prisoners’ rights to medical treatment in Iran, and why aren’t they being enforced?
Under Iranian law, Article 522 of the Code of Criminal Procedure explicitly states that if a prisoner requires medical care outside the prison, the judge must ensure treatment is provided, either by postponing imprisonment or arranging supervised hospital care. Additionally, Iran’s Constitution emphasizes the state’s duty to protect citizens’ lives, including prisoners. However, in Naqavi’s case, these laws are blatantly ignored. Judicial authorities and prison officials fail to act, whether due to negligence or intentional policy, leaving prisoners in dire conditions. This lack of enforcement reveals a deep-seated issue within the judicial system, where political motives often override legal obligations.
Can you shed light on the risks taken by Mohammad Najafi and Seyed Mohammadreza Faghihi in writing this letter from inside Evin Prison?
Writing this letter was an act of incredible bravery. Mohammad Najafi, imprisoned since 2018, and Seyed Mohammadreza Faghihi, serving a five-year sentence, both risk severe repercussions for speaking out. They could face additional charges, torture, or other forms of retribution from prison authorities. In a system where dissent is harshly punished, their decision to publicly demand medical care for Naqavi puts their own safety on the line. Yet, their commitment to justice and their colleague’s life compelled them to act, highlighting the profound ethical duty they feel as lawyers, even in captivity.
What does this letter reveal about the state of the legal profession and human rights in Iran more broadly?
This letter is a stark indictment of the collapse of legal safeguards in Iran. It shows how the legal profession, particularly lawyers defending human rights, is under attack. Imprisoned lawyers like Naqavi, Najafi, and Faghihi are targeted for their work, stripped of their rights, and subjected to inhumane treatment. It reflects a judicial system that prioritizes political control over justice, where defending basic rights can lead to imprisonment and suffering. This case is emblematic of a broader human rights crisis in Iran, where systemic abuse and the normalization of neglect are tools to suppress any form of opposition or advocacy.
The letter references international laws and standards. Can you explain which ones apply here and how Iran is failing to meet them?
Several international instruments are relevant, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, also known as the Mandela Rules. These frameworks mandate that prisoners be treated with dignity, have access to necessary medical care, and be protected from cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment. Iran, as a signatory to some of these agreements, is failing miserably. Naqavi’s denial of urgent medical care and the overall conditions in Evin Prison violate these standards, demonstrating a clear disregard for international obligations and a lack of accountability.
What role do you believe the global legal community can play in addressing cases like Taher Naqavi’s?
The global legal community has a crucial role to play. Bar associations, law societies, and international legal bodies can exert pressure by publicly condemning these abuses and demanding immediate medical treatment for Naqavi and others. They can mobilize networks to keep these cases visible, advocate for the release of imprisoned lawyers, and engage in direct diplomacy with Iranian authorities to push for compliance with domestic and international laws. Establishing mechanisms to monitor the health and safety of imprisoned lawyers and offering legal support can also make a significant difference. Silence is not an option when the very foundation of the legal profession is under attack.
What is your forecast for the human rights situation in Iran, especially regarding political prisoners and the legal profession, in the coming years?
I’m cautiously pessimistic about the short-term outlook. Without significant internal reform or sustained international pressure, the human rights situation in Iran, particularly for political prisoners and lawyers, is unlikely to improve. The regime’s reliance on repression as a tool of control suggests that cases like Naqavi’s will continue unless there’s a concerted global effort to hold Iranian authorities accountable. However, the courage of individuals like Najafi and Faghihi, combined with growing awareness and advocacy, could slowly build momentum for change. It’s a long road, but the resilience of Iran’s legal community and international solidarity might eventually tip the balance toward justice.
