On December 5, 2024, Atefeh Rangriz, a prominent Iranian human rights defender, was sentenced to an additional two years in prison for the charge of “spreading disinformation.” This new sentence was handed down by Branch 102 of the Damghan Criminal Court II, further compounding her already lengthy sentence for various charges related to her activism.
This ruling follows a previous conviction on November 22, 2024, where Rangriz was sentenced to a total of seven years in prison for “forming a group with the intention of acting against national security,” along with an additional seven months for “propaganda against the state.” She was also banned for two years from engaging in online activities, including on social media platforms.
Background of Atefeh Rangriz’s Activism and Legal Struggles
Rangriz, an advocate for women’s, children’s, and workers’ rights in Iran, has long faced persecution for her activism, particularly for her work with the Syndicate of Workers of Haft Tappeh Sugarcane Company. Her advocacy also includes translating the work of international feminists, such as Argentinian activist Verónica Gago, and disseminating their ideas through social media and online platforms. This activism, however, has made her a target of the Iranian authorities.
In June 2024, Rangriz was arrested and imprisoned after new charges were filed against her, including “spreading disinformation in the virtual world” and “disturbing public opinion.” These charges were reportedly linked to her creation of a Telegram group where she published her translations and research on human rights topics. Despite her ongoing legal battles, Rangriz remained committed to promoting gender equality and labor rights, even from behind bars.
Rangriz’s previous experiences with detention have been marked by judicial harassment. She was initially arrested in September 2023, following the anniversary of the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement. After being detained for nearly a month, she was released on bail but continued to face further charges. In November 2023, she was sentenced to over two years in prison for “collaboration with hostile groups” and “propaganda against the state.”
Health Concerns and Medical Treatment in Custody
Rangriz’s health has been a major concern throughout her detention. In November 2024, she was granted a temporary medical furlough due to the deterioration of her health while in custody. However, her request for an extension to undergo critical medical procedures was recently denied, raising further concerns about her well-being and the conditions of her detention.
International Outcry and Calls for Action
The latest sentencing of Rangriz has prompted strong reactions from international human rights organizations, including Front Line Defenders. The organization has voiced concern over the judicial harassment of Rangriz, arguing that she is being targeted solely for her peaceful advocacy of human rights. Additionally, the organization highlighted the denial of necessary medical care, which could violate Rangriz’s rights under international human rights law, including the UN’s Body of Principles for the Protection of All Persons under Any Form of Detention or Imprisonment.
Front Line Defenders has called for the immediate and unconditional release of Rangriz, urging the Iranian authorities to quash all charges against her and ensure she has access to adequate medical treatment while in detention.
Legal and Political Context
Rangriz’s case is emblematic of the broader crackdown on human rights defenders, journalists, and activists in Iran. The Iranian government has increasingly targeted individuals working on labor rights, women’s rights, and freedom of expression, often using national security charges to silence dissent. This ongoing judicial harassment is part of a larger pattern of repression that has seen an alarming decline in civil society space in the country.
Conclusion
Atefeh Rangriz’s case underscores the risks faced by human rights defenders in Iran, who continue to operate under the constant threat of arrest, imprisonment, and harassment. Rangriz’s peaceful efforts to promote gender equality, labor rights, and human dignity have placed her at odds with the state, which seeks to stifle dissent through legal means. As her legal battle continues, international pressure and advocacy are essential to ensuring that Rangriz is released and that the Iranian authorities are held accountable for their treatment of human rights defenders.
For further updates and support for Atefeh Rangriz, visit Front Line Defenders’ official page.
