Amnesty Write-a-thon | Majid Tavakoli

IRAN: STUDENT LEADER IMPRISONED

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On 7 December 2009, Majid Tavakkoli was arrested after criticizing the government during a peaceful student protest at Amir Kabir University of Technology in Tehran. The protest, held on National Student Day, was one of many across the country in response to the disputed presidential election that took place in June 2009. After his arrest, Majid was reportedly beaten and subjected to an unfair trial where he was denied the presence of his lawyer. Majid Tavakkoli was sentenced to over eight years in prison on charges that included "participating in an illegal gathering," "propaganda against the system" and "insulting officials."

In response to protests following the 2009 presidential elections, authorities increased restrictions on freedom of expression, association and assembly. Many people were arrested, including political activists, students, human rights defenders, journalists and others. Today, hundreds of political prisoners, many of whom are prisoners of conscience, remain jailed across Iran.

Between January and May 2010, Majid Tavakkoli was held in solitary confinement. His family was not informed of his whereabouts or his condition until they were allowed to pay him one 15-minute visit on 15 April 2010. Shortly thereafter, Majid was returned to solitary confinement, where he began a 7-day dry hunger strike. In August 2010, authorities transferred Majid to Raja'i Shahr prison, which is used to house violent criminals. He is suffering from a respiratory condition that has worsened since his arrest.

 

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