As part of the observance of the World Day of Solidarity with Political Prisoners in Iran, a conference was held on 28 June 2025, bringing together a number of activists, human rights organizations, and prominent figures in the field of human rights. This hybrid event (in-person and online) aimed to advocate for political prisoners in Iran, examine the mechanisms of repression, and strengthen international solidarity with victims of human rights violations.
The Zagros Human Rights Center actively participated in the conference, represented by its Director, Mr. Azad Salawati. As one of the official speakers, Mr. Salawati presented the Centre’s continuous efforts in documenting human rights violations, particularly concerning political prisoners, executions, and suspicious deaths occurring in Iranian prisons.
In his speech, Mr. Salawati emphasized that since its establishment, the Zagros Centre—holding consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC)—has been dedicated to documenting and reporting on human rights violations in Iran. One of the Centre’s most recent actions was the submission of a comprehensive report to the 59th session of the Human Rights Council on the situation of political prisoners in Iran. Additionally, on 19 June 2025, the Centre co-organized a side event during the same session, which was attended by several country representatives.
Mr. Salawati also addressed the Centre’s growing concerns regarding the safety of political prisoners following Israel’s recent attacks on Iranian territory. He warned of the risk that the Islamic Republic might use prisoners as human shields or repurpose prison facilities for military use—turning them into potential targets. This, he stressed, calls for an urgent response from international bodies. The Centre accordingly sent official letters to Council members and various governments, urging immediate action to safeguard the lives of prisoners.
He further announced that the Zagros Centre is compiling case files against government officials directly involved in violent repression or the issuance of unjust sentences against political prisoners, with the aim of initiating legal action at the international level.
In conclusion, Mr. Salawati highlighted the vital role of activists in exile in documenting abuses, engaging in advocacy, organizing solidarity campaigns, working with international bodies, and providing ongoing support to the families of political prisoners. He affirmed the collective duty to be the voice of political prisoners.
He concluded with the following statement:
“The Zagros Centre for Human Rights remains firmly committed to standing alongside political prisoners and their families.”
