This verdict is yet another cruel and devastating blow to human rights in Iran, which demonstrates the authoritiesutter contempt for justice. Narges Mohammadi is a prominent advocate of human rights and a prisoner of conscience. She should be lauded for her courage not locked in a prison cell for 16 years,” said Research and Advocacy Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Philip Luther. 

Mohammadi, who is critically ill, is already serving a separate six-year prison sentence in relation to her human rights work in Tehran’s Evin Prison. 

Luther continues, By insisting that this harsh and appalling sentence is imposed for her peaceful human rights work, the authorities have laid bare their intent to silence human rights defenders at all costs.” 

The timing of her sentencing is troubling, according to Luther. It is particularly shocking that this sentence comes as Irans authorities are preparing for renewed bilateral dialogue with the EU, given that Narges Mohammadi was convicted for her work campaigning against the death penalty and meeting with the former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs. This casts serious doubts over Irans commitment to engage meaningfully with the EU on human rights issues.” 

He concludes by demanding that, Narges Mohammadis conviction and sentence must be quashed and the authorities must order her immediate and unconditional release. We urge the EU to make these calls, too, and put the heightened repression of human rights defenders in Iran at the heart of their dialogue.