Journalists convicted for "publishing lies, slander, defamation, and threats” following complaints by members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly

Location: Iran, Tehran

Date: February 26, 2024

Women Press Freedom vehemently opposes the Iranian regime's recent actions against journalists Saba Azarpeik and Kimia Fathizadeh. Convicted on February 26, 2024, on spurious charges of "publishing lies, slander, defamation, and threats," Azarpeik and Fathizadeh's sentences are a blatant attack on press freedom and a gross miscarriage of justice. Azarpeik, sentenced to two years of imprisonment and banned from social media, and Fathizadeh, handed a six-month prison term along with a fine and a two-year ban from journalistic work, are victims of a broader crackdown on free speech and independent journalism in Iran. We strongly denounce these unfounded charges and calls for the immediate release and unconditional acquittal of both journalists. The Iranian authorities must halt their infringement on press freedom and human rights. Independent journalism is not a crime; it is a vital public service and a cornerstone of democracy.

Read latest reports from the globe

Journalists Saba Azarpeik and Kimia Fathizadeh were convicted by a Tehran court on February 26 on charges of “spreading false information, defamation, and threats.” Azarpeik received a two-year prison sentence, with the possibility of an extension for any similar conduct, and a social media ban. Fathizadeh was sentenced to six months in prison, a fine, and a two-year prohibition from engaging in journalism.

Legal actions against the journalists were initiated following complaints lodged by members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, including Alireza Razm Hosseini, a former Minister of Industry, Mine, and Trade, Zahra Sheikhi, a Parliament member, and Mohsen Dehnavi, a Director of the Islamic Consultative Assembly.

Azarpeik has been targeted with multiple complaints in recent months, with accusations stemming from various sources. The journalist has a track record of being summoned and detained due to her journalistic endeavors.

Fathizadeh's conviction was prompted by a report in which she criticized the head of the Intelligence Protection Organization and the former prosecutor of Sirjan, resulting in a complaint being filed against her.

On August 27, 2023, Fathizadeh's residence was raided by Cyber Police, and a number of her digital devices were confiscated during the operation.

Women Press Freedom has been closely monitoring and documenting the climate of dissent in Iran. Our findings show alarming instances of press freedom violations, especially escalating since the onset of nationwide protests. People who bravely challenge authority face penalties, arrests, and incarceration. It is alarming that Iran currently detains 42 women journalists, making it the leading jailer of media professionals.

Women Press Freedom stands in solidarity with Saba Azarpeik and Kimia Fathizadeh. We strongly condemn the baseless accusations and unjust imprisonment they face. We demand their immediate release and exoneration. The Iranian government must cease its violations of press freedom and human rights. Independent journalism is essential for democracy and should not be criminalized. We urge the global community to prioritize the cases of journalists in discussions with Iran. These infringement cannot continue. 

Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

If you have been harassed or abused in any way, and please report the incident by using the following form.