Lawyers continue to face systemic persecution for defending human rights in Iran, an international coalition has warned on the eve of the annual Day of the Endangered Lawyer. It is the second time that the Middle Eastern country has been the focus of the day, organised by the Coalition for the Endangered Lawyer, a network of legal organisations and bar associations from jurisdictions around the world.  

In the 14th edition of its endangered lawer report, the coalition covers the widespread mistreatment of lawyers and the erosion of an independent legal profession. It covers a dozen case studies of named lawyers being subject to intimidation, detention, imprisonment and penalties including flogging.  

'Iranian lawyers face continual intimidation, hinderance, and harassment,' the coalition reports. 'They are threatened with sanctions for fulfilling their professional duties if the government disapproves of the nature of their work. When these lawyers practice against the regime’s wishes, they face conviction and imprisonment.'

Meanwhile the Tehran government is currently investigating the Iranian Bar Association and plans to evaluate the judicial credentials of lawyers. 'This intervention allows the state to designate which lawyers are entitled to practise in Iran.  

'The Iranian regime’s mistreatment of legal professionals has a chilling effect on human rights. It fosters a climate of fear and insecurity for lawyers carrying out crucial work to speak out against the severe abuse of human rights taking place throughout the country,' the report continues. 

'We demand the Iranian government halt all acts of intimidation and harassment targeting lawyers and respect the independence of the legal profession.'

The Day of the Endangered Lawyer falls on 24 January.