By Country / Iran
U.S. Says Serious Human Rights Violations Occurring In Iran
March 08, 2006
PRAGUE, March 8, 2006 (RFE/RL) -- The U.S. State Department criticized Iran today for "serious" human rights violations in its annual report on human rights abuses worldwide.
The report says Iran's "already poor record on human rights" worsened in 2005.
It adds that the Iranian government continued to commit "numerous, serious" abuses, ranging from summary executions -- including of minors -- to torture, and severe punishments such as amputations and flogging. It also notes violence by vigilante groups with ties to the government and arbitrary arrests and detentions, including prolonged solitary confinements.
Lack of fair public trials, severe restrictions on civil liberties and freedom of religion, and child labor are among the other reported cases of human rights abuses.
The report also notes that women, ethnic and religious minorities, and homosexuals face violence and discrimination.
For an overview of the State Department report,
click here.