Eight Years of Resistance for Truth and Justice: Hengaw Human Rights Organization's Commitment to Advocacy
On the occasion of the eighth anniversary of the founding of the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights, we proudly and with deep commitment to defending human rights and values release this statement.
Since its inception, Hengaw has had a clear mission to document and publicize systematic human rights violations in Kurdistan, becoming the voice of the voiceless and the cry for justice for the oppressed. Following the beginning of the "Jin, Jiyan, Azadi" movement, Hengaw expanded its activities beyond Kurdistan in Iran to document widespread human rights violations across the country.
Over these eight years, through continuous and tireless efforts, Hengaw has sought to draw the attention of the media, the international community, human rights organizations, and public opinion to the critical human rights situation in Kurdistan and throughout Iran. By precisely documenting cases of violence, repression, arbitrary executions, unjust detentions, and the political and social pressures on women, sexual and gender minorities, and national/ethnic minorities—such as religious minorities—we have worked to break the silence imposed on these communities and ensure their stories are heard within the larger narrative of Iranian news.
During these eight years, Hengaw has faced numerous challenges and threats, including:
Security threats: Hengaw's members and reporters have continually faced serious security threats, such as surveillance, arrests, forced disappearances, torture, and even the risk of death. These threats come from the Iranian government agencies and powerful groups trying to prevent the exposure of harsh truths about human rights violations. The Iranian security forces, using accusations like "terrorism, separatism, and collaboration with Mossad," have effectively signed off on state-sanctioned executions of Hengaw's members before arresting or abducting them.
Information restrictions: In many cases, access to accurate information and reports about human rights abuses has been difficult due to strict media control and government censorship. Many local journalists and news sources have been pressured, making independent reporting extremely challenging.
Digital threats: Cyberattacks on Hengaw's websites and online platforms have been a significant challenge over the years. These attacks aim to silence the organization and destroy vital data and information. Maintaining digital security and countering these threats requires resources and continuous efforts.
Threatening family members and relatives: Many family members and friends of Hengaw colleagues and reporters have been subjected to psychological and security pressures. Arrests, threats, and harassment are among the tools the Iranian government and repressive institutions use to silence the organization's voice.
Hengaw has consistently paid special attention to the situation of national and ethnic minorities facing discrimination and repression. In addition to enduring gender-based and economic oppression, these minorities also face racist discrimination and ethnic centralism. Hengaw has documented and publicized systematic violations of these groups' rights, striving to bring their voices to the international stage.
In this challenging journey, Hengaw has remained committed to truth, justice, and human rights. Stronger than ever in the post-“Women,” Life, Freedom” movement, and inspired by the principles of this movement, Hengaw will continue to support victims of human rights violations and provide transparent and accurate reporting.
Hengaw expresses its deep gratitude to everyone who has supported our work through collaboration, reporting, and backing our activities over the years. We reaffirm our unwavering determination to continue this path.
Hengaw Organization for Human Rights
9 October 2024
