Norway concerned about the human rights situation in Iran

State Secretary Gry Larsen commented: “I am deeply concerned about the further deterioration of the human rights situation in Iran following the presidential election last year.” 

Norway condemns the two executions that took place on Thursday last week. Mohammed Reza Ali-Zamani and Arash Rahmanipour were condemned to death in a mass trial in August last year for their involvement in planning the protests after the presidential election in June 2009, amongst other things.

A total of 11 people have been sentenced to death in connection with these protests, in mass trials without proper legal counsel and on the basis of forced public confessions.

“The fact that these people have been sentenced without a fair trial is cause for serious concern and a violation of basic principles of the rule of law, which Iran has committed itself to following. I urge Iran to comply with its international commitments with regard to fundamental human rights, and to respect the right to freedom of expression and freedom of association,” said State Secretary Gry Larsen.