Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Feb. 14 reported that the Iranian government is systematically targeting the Azeri ethnic minority through the imposition of "abusive" criminal charges and severe prison sentences aimed at silencing dissent. The crackdown has intensified since October, with at least two dozen Azeri activists imprisoned following unfair trials. These activists have been handed terms ranging from three to 14 years on charges including "propaganda against the state," "conspiracy against the country," and "forming an opposition group against the state."

HRW further stated that detainees are often denied medical care, held in solitary confinement, and subjected to psychological pressure. HRW's acting Iran researcher Nahid Naghshbandi characterized these conditions as "an attempt to crush civil society and prevent ethnic minorities from demanding their basic rights."

The human rights organization further stressed that activists face accusations related to advocacy on environmental issues and civil rights, assisting families of protesters killed or injured during the country's 2022 demonstrations, or involvement in opposition groups. HRW states that Iranian authorities have not presented any real evidence against the Azeri activists.

The Turkic-speaking Azeris constitute Iran's largest minority group, primarily residing in the northwest of the country. Historically, ethnic and religious minorities in Iran have faced systemic discrimination and restrictions on their cultural and political activities. Several human rights organizations, including HRW, have previously documented instances of torture, rape and sexual assault against detainees from the Kurdish, Baluch and Azeri minority peoples during Iran's 2022 protests. Recent reports further indicate a surge in mass arrests, violence, and enforced disappearances targeting various ethnic minorities, including Azeris.

From JURIST, Feb. 16. Used with permission.

Iran has seen upsurges of Azeri protests in 2021, 2018, 2009 and 2006.

See our last report on the 2022 protests.