Socialist International presses Iran on political rights

CASCAIS, Portugal

President of the Socialist International, George Papandreu,from Greece, walks past the podium before giving his speech during their council meeting in Cascais, near Lisbon, Monday, Feb. 4, 2013. AP Photo

The Socialist International has strongly urged the Iranian government to respect the rights of political activists, as well as journalists, women, students and labor activists.

The resolution on Iran called for Tehran to respect and enhance the rights of political activists, citing growing violations of human rights.

“The growing number of political activists being executed in Iran is a serious cause of alarm for the Socialist International,” it said. The resolution also drew attention to the many Kurdish political prisoners who have been sentenced to death without proper legal representation.

The Socialist International also said it was gravely concerned about Iran’s continued application of Article 188/1992 of the country’s criminal code, which considers the members, supporters and followers of any Kurdish, Arab or Balouch political parties “Mufsed fee Al Arz” (corrupted on earth) and “Mohareb” (enemy of God), and calls for them to be punished by hanging and execution.

The Socialist International held its council meeting in Cascais, Portugal this month under the main heading “The World Economy: Our Vision for Growth, Jobs and Sustainable Development.” The council brought together almost 300 participants from 100 delegations, including leaders and representatives from Socialist International member parties worldwide, as well as specially invited guests.