Iran: Statement by the Spokesperson on the sentencing of Narges Mohammadi

The European Union is appalled by the latest sentencing to yet another prison term of Iranian human rights defender and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi, a long-standing human rights defender. The charges against Narges Mohammadi are based solely on her peaceful advocacy for human rights. The EU urges Iranian authorities to release her immediately and unconditionally, taking also into consideration her fragile health.

Human rights defenders must be able to raise their voices and carry out their legitimate work without fear of imprisonment or reprisals. Iran is bound by its obligations under international human rights law, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to respect freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.

The EU calls on Iranian authorities to release all individuals unjustly detained for exercising these fundamental rights, including those arrested during the recent protests, and to ensure the respect for due process rights and the right to a fair trial for all.