I Create; I Resist; Report by 'Artistic Freedom Initiative' and 'Reporters Without Borders' Released

The organizations 'Artistic Freedom Initiative' and 'Reporters Without Borders' have published a comprehensive report on the eve of the second anniversary of the 'Women, Life, Freedom' uprising, examining the ongoing repression of artists in Iran following the death of Zhina Mahsa Amini and their role in the protests. This 100-page report emphasizes the key role of Iranian artists in defending human rights and supporting the 'Women, Life, Freedom' uprising. The report states: 'On September 16, 2022, Zhina Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian woman, lost her life due to blows inflicted by security forces, and this incident sparked widespread protests across Iran and the world.' The detailed report continues: 'The initial protests over Mahsa Amini's death quickly transformed into a widespread movement for women's rights, fighting against systemic discrimination, and the repression of fundamental freedoms. As the protests expanded, the slogan 'Women, Life, Freedom' became a symbol of this movement, with many protesters calling for deep political and social changes.' According to the report, Iranian artists contributed to disseminating the movement's message and exposing the regime's violence against protesters by creating art and using social media. Artistic works such as graphic images of Mahsa Amini, photos and videos of women without hijabs, protest songs, and group dances in the streets became part of the artistic struggles. The report also shows how the Islamic Republic has used methods such as censorship, arrest, work bans, torture, and online surveillance to suppress artists. Since the beginning of the 'Women, Life, Freedom' uprising, many artists have faced threats and harassment for supporting this movement. The report examines 15 cases of artists who have been prosecuted for their support of the uprising. Some of these artists have faced charges such as 'acting against national security' and 'propaganda against the regime.' The report also includes interviews with well-known artists like Zhinous Taghizadeh, Nazanin Norouzi, and Yalda Ma'iri, who shared their experiences of censorship and repression. Sanji Seti, the executive director of the 'Artistic Freedom Initiative,' states in the report: 'Iranian artists are not only creators of artistic works but also a powerful voice against oppression and repression.' He emphasizes that the works of these artists play a significant role in strengthening calls for freedom and justice. The report includes recommendations for international community support for at-risk Iranian artists, including providing legal assistance, safe havens, and amplifying their voices on international platforms. The organizations 'Artistic Freedom Initiative' and 'Reporters Without Borders' have also called on the international community to impose targeted sanctions against officials responsible for repressing artists. The report emphasizes that Iranian artists who have played a role in the 'Women, Life, Freedom' uprising deserve recognition as human rights defenders and urgently need the support of the global community.