Iranian journalists recently addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, urging the council to condemn Iran’s actions against media professionals and to demand an end to the targeting of journalists. This appeal was made during a session focusing on journalists in exile, highlighting the ongoing persecution faced by Iranian journalists.
Invited by the International Federation of Journalists and its UK affiliate, the National Union of Journalists, the journalists expressed gratitude to the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression for spotlighting their plight. The rapporteur’s report detailed severe harassment, threats, online gender-based violence, and judicial actions endured by journalists and their families in Iran.
The misuse of national security and counter-terrorism laws against journalists was a significant concern. Complaints were submitted to five Special Procedures mandate-holders, including Irene Khan, the Special Rapporteur on the Promotion and Protection of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression. The appeal emphasized the need for UN intervention, stating, “We continue to urge UN experts to condemn the Iranian authorities for their ongoing harassment of journalists. Journalists must be free to hold power to account.”
Legal representatives Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC and Jennifer Robinson reinforced this message, stating that Iran’s actions aim to suppress independent reporting. They called for urgent international action to protect journalists and uphold press freedom.
The plea for UN support comes particularly after an increase in targeting from September 2022 amid mass protests in Iran. The UN’s Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Iran has documented continuous threats and harassment of Iranian journalists.
A 2024 survey of BBC News Persian employees revealed that half had received online threats or harassment due to their work, with over 60% reporting that their families or friends in Iran had also been targeted. Nearly 70% were unable to say goodbye to deceased parents in Iran due to these circumstances.