Rights Report: 170 journalists arrested in Iran over the past three years

A new human rights report has revealed that Iranian authorities have arrested 170 journalists over the past three years, particularly following the outbreak of the “Woman, Life, Freedom” uprising, largely due to their coverage of protests or reporting on government abuses.

2 November, 2025 19:15

NEWS DESK

The Voice of Kurdish and Iranian Prisoners Organization published a report detailing arrests and death sentences issued by Iranian authorities against journalists over the past three years, marking the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.

According to the report, arrests of journalists escalated sharply after the 2022 “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement, with 170 journalists, including 24 women, detained for covering protests or publishing information about state violations.

Iranian courts have issued sentences totaling up to 60 years in prison against 21 journalists, while 41 others have been tried without legal guarantees or access to defense lawyers, the organization stated.

The Voice of Kurdish and Iranian Prisoners Organization called on the international community and human rights bodies to pressure Tehran to end arbitrary detentions and ensure press freedom and independence.

November 2 marks the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, a day that serves as a reminder that the persecution and imprisonment of journalists not only violate their rights but also constitute an assault on freedom of expression and the public’s right to know.

ANHA