Sweden-Iran Labor Unions Platform Calls for the Release of Women's Rights Activists from Iranian Prisons

The Sweden-Iran Labor Unions Platform issued a statement on the occasion of International Women's Day, March 8, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of all women's rights activists, writers, union activists, teachers, and other civil, political, and social activists. Recognizing the fundamental conventions 87 and 98 of the International Labor Organization and their implementation regarding the freedom of association for workers by the Islamic Republic is another demand of the Sweden-Iran Labor Unions Platform. This organization includes the central organization of 14 labor unions, the transport union, the metalworkers' union, the municipal and bus workers' union, and the national teachers' union of Sweden. The Sweden-Iran Labor Unions Platform also called for the recognition of International Women's Day and the abolition of the death penalty (state killings) by the Islamic Republic. The statement referenced the killing of Mahsa Amini in the custody of the morality police last year and the beginning of nationwide protests in Iran, stating that developments and protests in Iran are still influenced by the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement. Members of this platform noted the significant non-participation of eligible voters in the Assembly of Experts and Islamic Consultative Assembly elections, viewing it as a reflection of the ongoing struggles of the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement. The statement said: The Islamic Republic regime in Iran is now mobilizing all its repressive forces such as the Revolutionary Guards, Basij, police forces, and special units to prevent a resurgence of protests, while simultaneously trying to legitimize the repression and silence the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement through the implementation of the so-called Hijab and Chastity Bill. The Sweden-Iran Labor Unions Platform stated that despite the efforts of the Islamic Republic, the fighting women of Iran have not been silenced but have continued their various struggles through civil disobedience and the experiences gained during the recent movement, supported by the Coordinating Council of Iranian Teachers' Unions, independent labor organizations, artists, writers, retirees, nurses, civil and political activists to achieve their demands and basic rights, end gender discrimination, ensure equal employment and rights in the labor market, and abolish child marriage, continuing their social, feminist, and political struggles alongside men and international support. The United Nations has recognized this day as 'International Women's Rights and Peace Day' since 1977. The history of International Women's Day dates back to the strike and demonstrations of women workers in the textile industry in New York about 170 years ago, which were aimed at improving working conditions and increasing wages. Subsequently, the International Socialist Women's Conference held about 100 years ago in Copenhagen, Denmark, approved Clara Zetkin's proposal from the German Social Democrats to recognize this day as 'International Women's Day.' In Iran, the first celebration of International Women's Day was held in 1922 in the city of Rasht. Since then, International Women's Day has been commemorated by women's rights activists and independent labor and political organizations in Iran. This day is not recognized by the Islamic Republic, despite Iran being a member of the United Nations.