Iran’s clampdown on Independent Activism

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The right to protest, and the freedom of speech. Two fundamental rights that unfortunately, too many of us take for granted. As human beings, it is only natural to strive for the better and not be satisfied with what we have. Even though this can be perceived as selfishness, when basic human rights are denied, one can only help but wonder, who wouldn’t fight for what is rightfully theirs. However, too much of a good thing can result in negative behaviours as well. Taking the west for example, our society is plagued with immoralities such as drug/alcohol abuse, pornography, and the acceptance of abortion and contraception. Fortunately, a country like Iran has stayed true to its moral and religious values, by enforcing religious laws, and keeping its people in check. Perhaps it would be wise for Western society to look to Iran as an example, and attempt to apply similar disciplinary actions towards its own citizens, before things get to out of hand. Though, as I stated previously, too much of a good thing (even if it’s the opposite scale) has its adverse effects. Controlling the population too much, to a point where rights and freedoms are being violated, is indeed going too far. There needs to be an established middle ground if we wish for any progress to arise. The Iranian people have a rich history and background, and have incredible hidden potential, if only they had the opportunity to expressive themselves. Proof of this is quite evident if we look at its history. There has been evidence that the Iranian government has been arresting people for peacefully exercising their rights to free expression, association, and assembly. In the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which Iran has signed, the right for citizens to peacefully protest is protected. However, Iran has seemingly ignored this, and continues pursuing its own agenda. Iran has once again become a dominating force in the Middle East, due to both economical and geographical factors. Therefore, as the international spotlight shines upon Iran as its influence continues to grow, it is important for the Iranian government to portray themselves in a positive context for its own and its people’s benefit by: adhering to international covenants, sticking to its religious roots, taking care of its populace thus allowing it to flourish, and to be aware of possible economic consequences if issues are not addressed.

Contents 1 Universal Declaration 2 Religion 3 Recommendations for the Government 4 Notes

[edit] Universal Declaration

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted and proclaimed on December 10th 1948. Its sole purpose was to ensure that the atrocities that occurred during the Second World War shall never plague history ever again. Most countries, including Iran, signed this declaration, acknowledging that they respect human rights. However, unfortunately, most countries don’t “practice what they preach” so to speak. For instance, in Iran, “On June 11th 2006, prior to the start of the demonstration at Seventh Tir Square, police and security forces arrived to prevent participants from joining the event, and forcibly disbanded the crows that were gathering.”^[1] This is a clear infringement and disregard of the rights Article 19 and 20 are attempting to protect. These articles state that: “Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression” and “Everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association”. Therefore, the violations that occurred are fairly self-evident. If Iran wishes to continue growing, it must first respect the rights of its citizens because, after all, they are the backbone of any economy. Since August 2005, Iranian security forces have detained at least 35 members of the Iranian women’s movement in Evin 209. Article 9 decrees: “No one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest, detention or exile.” Therefore, these women were unjustly arrested, and deserve to be released immediately, with pardon.

[edit] Religion

Christianity and Islam. At first glance, they appear to be at opposite ends of the spectrum. However, upon closer inspection, it becomes evident that the rudimentary core values of each religion are actually quite similar. Both religions preach equality for all, treating each other as we would like to be treated, and love for God.

"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets." ^[2]

"None of you [truly] believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.” ^[3]

Therefore, even though the exact wording may differ, the meaning behind each statement is identical. However, by disregarding the concerns of innocent protesters, the Islamic Republic of Iran, is denying the very principles its state is founded upon. Whether these protesters are just in their cause or not, is irrelevant. As true believers of the Islamic religion, one must be open minded to others, and reflect upon all sides of a given issue, before coming to a reasonable conclusion. If a religious government stays true to its values, then the populace will take heed of its example, and thus would increase the overall morality of the society. This helps to decrease crime and increase education of the overall populace, because especially those living in despair, would have a beacon of hope to turn to.

[edit] Recommendations for the Government

As the world continues to grow and evolve, one must change for the better, or be left behind. I encourage the Iranian government to employ more peaceful methods of resolving protests, such usage of a water cannon or rubber bullets, instead of resorting to live ammunition (which leads to injury and death, thus more protests). I advise the government to invest money to resolve simple matters, such as a broken water line. It would result in a far greater return in the future by doing so, because taking care of the populace truly pays off. Finally, I’d like to make note that improving human rights does have economical benefits as well. That is important to keep in mind, when making future decisions regarding such issues because sanctions can be prevented and even removed. Though, I’m happy to note that Iran will continue to grow and be a determining factor in the Middle East for decades to come, and with a few minor changes, be a shining beacon and role model for all countries around it.

[edit] Notes

1. ^ “You Can Detain Anyone for Anything”, January 2008, <http://hrw.org/reports/2008/iran0108/4.htm#_Toc185931508>
2. ^ Matthew 7:12, King James Version
3. ^ Number 13 of Imam "Al-Nawawi's Forty Hadiths”