Children of Imprisoned Parents International (COIPI) expresses its deep concern regarding the situation of children living with their incarcerated mothers, as well as pregnant women detained in prisons in the Islamic Republic of Iran amid the current war and the escalating security situation.
In recent days, alarming reports have emerged from Evin Prison and Gharchak Prison, indicating serious difficulties in accessing basic necessities, including adequate food, safety, and essential services. Reports further suggest that prison guards and staff have prioritized their own safety and, in some cases, have not reported for duty, leaving detained individuals without sufficient protection or support.
According to the most recent information available to COIPI, as of August, at least 13 infants and young children (up to the age of four), 13 incarcerated mothers, and approximately 20 pregnant women were being held in Gharchak Prison. Due to the current circumstances, COIPI does not have updated figures, and the present situation and numbers of affected children and women may be the same or higher. Gharchak Prison has long been documented as having extremely poor and unsafe conditions, even prior to the current crisis.
COIPI’s research indicates that the rights to life, survival and development, protection from all forms of violence, and access to education of tens of children living with their incarcerated mothers in prisons across several provinces of Iran are being seriously compromised.
In accordance with the obligations of the Islamic Republic of Iran under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, COIPI urges the authorities to take immediate measures to safeguard the life, safety, and wellbeing of all detainees, with particular attention to the most vulnerable groups, including children living in prison with their mothers, incarcerated mothers, and pregnant women.
COIPI further calls on the authorities to prioritize the urgent release or application of non-custodial measures for these groups, without discrimination, in line with international human rights standards and the best interests of the child.
Feature Image: Designed by Maryam Beigi