Iran's Growing Use of Executions and Psychiatric Abuse to Suppress Dissent

Iranian authorities are increasingly using executions and psychiatric abuse as tools of fear and control, targeting ethnic minorities, dissidents, and foreign nationals. Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported on November 20 that the Iranian regime is exploiting the death penalty to instill fear among its population, particularly after unfair trials. In 2023 alone, at least 651 people were executed, including 166 in October, and many more are at risk.

One notable case is that of Kurdish political prisoner Varisheh Moradi, sentenced to death for "armed rebellion against the state." Moradi's trial, held in Iran’s revolutionary court, was marred by violations of due process, including her confinement in solitary and torture, and the denial of a defense. HRW emphasized that such executions are often targeted at ethnic minorities and political dissidents, with the aim of suppressing opposition to the regime.

In addition to executions, Iranian authorities are misusing psychiatry to punish government critics, especially women who defy the country's strict hijab law. A new "rehabilitation center" has been set up in Tehran to treat women who do not comply with the mandatory dress code. Critics have condemned the move as an abuse of psychiatric care to silence dissent, calling it a form of political persecution disguised as medical treatment.

The international community is urged to take a stand against Iran’s violations of human rights and hold the regime accountable for its actions. As executions rise and women face increasing oppression, it’s vital that global pressure builds to end these abuses and demand justice for the people of Iran.