For decades, Iranian authorities have been implicated in widespread and systematic human rights violations, many of which may amount to crimes under international law. Most recently, the mass protests that began on 28 December 2025, and the authorities’ response to them, have once again brought urgent questions of accountability to the forefront. While these violations are primarily committed within Iran, accountability for them is not solely a domestic concern. Addressing impunity for serious international crimes is critical to protecting the international rule of law, safeguarding victims’ rights, and ensuring that European jurisdictions do not become safe havens for alleged perpetrators.
Germany has demonstrated significant leadership in pursuing accountability for international crimes committed beyond its borders. Structural investigations opened by the German Federal Public Prosecutor’s Office, including those related to Syria and Ukraine, illustrate the important role national authorities can play even before individual prosecutions become possible. Such investigations can help secure and preserve evidence, identify patterns of criminal conduct and responsible actors, and lay the groundwork for future criminal proceedings. These mechanisms have significance beyond individual cases. They can strengthen pathways to justice for victims, contribute to preventing future violations, and reinforce the principle that those responsible for the gravest crimes should not evade accountability simply by crossing borders.
This discussion will bring together experts from Human Rights Activists (HRA), UpRights, and Iranian human rights lawyer Sina Yousefi, who was arrested and imprisoned by Iranian authorities after organizing a defense committee to provide legal representation to protesters during the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests. Together, speakers will examine the role Germany and the European Union can play in advancing accountability for crimes committed in Iran.
Date and Time: September 3, 16:00–17:00, followed by a reception
Location: Betahaus GmbH, Rudi-Dutschke-Straße 23, 10969 Berlin
Speakers
– Skylar Thompson, Deputy Director, Human Rights Activists (HRA)
– Jennifer Connet, Legal Advisor, Human Rights Activists (HRA)
– Valérie Gabard, Co-director, UpRights
– Sina Yousefi, Iranian human rights lawyer, former Vice Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of the East Azerbaijan Bar Association
– Additional Speakers TBA
👉Registration required.
