Human Rights Communiqué on Kianoosh Sanjari; A Call for Freedom and Justice 

Introduction

With profound compassion and great respect, we commemorate Iranian activist Kianoosh Sanjari, who sacrificed his life to shed light on the ongoing human rights violations in Iran. His suicide on November 13, 2024, cannot be seen as an act of despair but must be recognized as a desperate cry for justice and freedom. This communiqué aims not only to recount the biography of the deceased but also to criticize the repression of the Iranian regime and call for a global movement of solidarity. 

Kianoosh Sanjari: A Life Dedicated to Freedom 

Kianoosh Sanjari, born in Tehran in 1980, dedicated himself to democracy and human rights from a young age. Repeatedly, he was imprisoned and tortured for his activism. After fleeing Iran in 2007, he continued his work in exile, collaborating with organizations such as Voice of America and international human rights groups. In 2016, he returned to Iran to care for his ailing mother—a decision that subjected him once again to oppression. Despite being sentenced to eleven years in prison and enduring brutal treatment in detention and a psychiatric clinic, Sanjari remained a tireless advocate for freedom. 

The Final Message: A Protest for Humanity 

Shortly before his death, Sanjari issued a courageous statement on the platform X (formerly Twitter).

He demanded the release of political prisoners Fatemeh Sepehri, Nasrin Shakarami, Toomaj Salehi, and Arsham Rezaei, who had been detained following protests over the death of Mahsa Amini. He declared, “No one should be imprisoned for expressing their opinions. Protest is the right of every Iranian citizen.” When the regime failed to respond, Sanjari acted on his words—a tragic affirmation of his unwavering dedication to the rights and dignity of all Iranians. 

Human Rights Violations in Iran: A Systematic Problem 

Sanjari’s story highlights the systematic repression in Iran: 

• Arbitrary arrests and torture: Political activists and regime critics, including Sanjari and the four prisoners he advocated for, are routinely detained. 
• Abuse of psychiatric facilities: Sanjari reported being subjected to electroshock treatments and other cruel practices during his imprisonment. This misuse reflects the unscrupulous exploitation of medical institutions. 
• Suppression of freedom of expression and protest: The imprisonment of individuals such as Mahsa Amini and other protestors demonstrates how the regime stifles fundamental freedoms. 

A Call to Action – Kianoosh Sanjari’s death is a wake-up call to the international community: 

1. Support for Iranian activists: Governments and organizations must provide protection and assistance to Iranian dissidents. 

2. Sanctions against the regime: Perpetrators of human rights violations must be held accountable through targeted sanctions. 

3. Investigation and transparency: International bodies should examine the misuse of prisons and psychiatric facilities in Iran. 

4. Show solidarity: Individuals can contribute to change through protests, petitions, and donations to human rights organizations. 

Conclusion 

The consequences of Kianoosh Sanjari’s demise are significant. His fortitude serves as a stark reminder that freedom and justice are universal values that demand the support of every individual committed to human rights. His legacy, which we must all honour, is encapsulated in his final words: “Long live Iran“

Vienna, 17.11.2024

Dr. Behrouz Bayat
Komitee zur Verteidigung der Menschenrechte im Iran, Österreich

Prof. Dr. Siroos Mirzaei
Medical Professionals for Human Rights in Iran – Austria