By René Wadlow

The Association of World Citizens (AWC) joined with 14 other Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs) in Consultative Status with the United Nations in a written statement for the current session of the Human Rights Council now meeting in Geneva, Switzerland. The statement stressed, “We express grave concern at the escalating use of the death penalty by the Islamic Republic of Iran against political prisoners, perceived opponents, and persons arrested in connection with anti-government protests. Executions appear increasingly to be used to suppress dissent, intimidate society and punish the exercise of the right to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.”

The “crimes” for which the death penalty can be invoked are very broad and not very clear, “spreading corruption on earth” and “waging war on God”. There is opposition to the death penalty in many sections of Iranian society. There are even protests against the death penalty in Iranian prisons.

The AWC has a longstanding policy of opposition to the death penalty and has worked with other NGOs for the universal abolition of the death penalty.

It is certain that the broader USA-Islamic Republic of Iran conflict creates an atmosphere which is not conducive to a calm consideration of legal sanctions nor to the rule of law. Strong efforts must be made by both governments and NGOs to reduce USA-Iranian tensions.

Prof. René Wadlow is President of the Association of World Citizens.