Iran-Overview

The rights to freedom of association, assembly and expression are severely restricted in Iran. Vague national security laws, as well as prohibitions on insulting Islam and spreading propaganda, are used by the government to silence dissenting voices. Journalists, bloggers, and activists are routinely harassed, arrested and imprisoned for exercising their rights. Civil society organisations and media outlets risk closure by the authorities by expressing opinions or reporting on facts which do not meet the approval of the authorities.