introduction
This report delves into the severe human rights violations faced by lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals in iran. It examines documented cases of arrests, detentions, torture, and extrajudicial killings, highlighting the systemic nature of these abuses.
Furthermore, it addresses the unique challenges faced by transgender individuals and those who have sought asylum or refuge, including the obstacles they encounter in accessing justice and safety abroad.
arrests and detentions in iran
instances of targeted arrests
Security forces in iran routinely conduct raids targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, often arresting men and sometimes transgender people at gay gatherings.
These raids frequently occur in cities such as Shiraz, Esfahan, and Tehran. Reports from the Iranian Queer Organization (IRQO) and Human Rights Watch detail how individuals are arrested on suspicion of "lavât" (a term encompassing various forms of homosexual conduct), "satan worship," and alcohol use, though charges are often later dropped.
detention conditions and torture
Those detained often endure harsh conditions.
Detentions can last for weeks, sometimes without access to legal counsel. Accounts reveal extensive physical abuse, torture, and sexual assault to extract confessions. The basij forces, auxiliary militia forces, have been implicated in numerous instances of brutality. This includes coercing individuals to provide information about gatherings, threats of lighter sentences, and violent interrogations, even in cases where participants were not directly charged with "lavât." In many instances, detainees are denied the opportunity to see their family members or to seek legal representation.
These accounts depict a systematic pattern of abuses designed to quell dissent and silence LGBTQ+ voices.
the role of internet entrapment
Law enforcement in iran has employed internet entrapment tactics to target LGBTQ+ individuals. They've used online dating platforms and chatrooms to establish contact with potential victims, luring them into meetings before arresting them.
Such methods, described by several individuals, highlight the vulnerability of those seeking connections online. These individuals, often subjected to prolonged interrogations and abuse, face significant challenges in securing just outcomes.
trials and legal proceedings
confessions extracted through coercion
Iranian courts frequently rely on coerced confessions, often obtained through brutal interrogation tactics.
These forced confessions are used as evidence in trials, depriving individuals of a fair chance to defend themselves. Many individuals, especially those arrested at parties or through online entrapment, report not knowing the specific charges against them.
This lack of transparency further compromises the judicial process and undermines due process rights.
lack of access to legal representation
LGBTQ+ individuals often lack access to legal representation. This lack of support makes them vulnerable to further abuse and harassment during police interrogations and judicial proceedings.
The trials themselves are often rushed and lack due process, failing to provide a fair opportunity to the accused to present their case. These violations underscore the systematic nature of human rights abuses against LGBTQ+ individuals.
disregard for torture allegations
Judges frequently dismiss or downplay allegations of torture, creating a culture of impunity that allows these abuses to continue unchecked.
Victims frequently experience physical and psychological trauma, but the system fails to address their pain and suffering. In some documented cases, individuals seeking to showcase the physical evidence of their ordeal have been reprimanded or ignored by the court.
The consistent disregard for these claims emboldens authorities to continue perpetrating these abuses without fear of accountability.
the plight of transgender iranians
Transgender individuals in iran face unique challenges. While some legal pathways exist for gender confirmation surgeries, the state's approach can be problematic, sometimes pressuring individuals to undergo these procedures even when they don't wish to or are not transgender.
This creates a system of coercion and exploitation, compounding existing vulnerabilities. Further, these individuals endure significant social stigma, familial pressures, and difficulties in maintaining employment or social inclusion, due to their gender identity.
Stories highlight the discrimination and challenges faced by those who have undergone, or desire to undergo, such procedures.
challenges faced by lgbtq+ asylum seekers
hardships in resettlement
Iranian LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers in turkey encounter significant challenges in accessing asylum and resettlement.
They face bureaucratic hurdles, including residency fees, work permit requirements, and regulations that restrict their movement and opportunities. Their experiences underscore the difficulties in navigating resettlement processes and accessing essential services and support.
discrimination and violence in turkey
Iranian LGBTQ+ refugees and asylum seekers in turkey often experience harassment and gender-based violence in addition to general refugee hardships.
These individuals may also encounter discrimination and abuse in their interactions with UNHCR staff and personnel.
Stories reveal the challenges and added vulnerability these individuals face in foreign countries.
conclusion
The experiences described in this report reveal a disturbing pattern of human rights violations against LGBTQ+ individuals in Iran. The report highlights the systemic nature of these violations, including arbitrary arrests, harsh detention conditions, coercive interrogation tactics, and the dismissal of torture claims.
These abuses have severe implications for the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ individuals, many of whom seek refuge abroad, facing additional obstacles in foreign countries. The report urges international communities and states to actively intervene to halt these egregious human rights violations and ensure the safety and protection of LGBTQ+ individuals in Iran and abroad.