Iranian human rights activist and Nobel laureate, Narges Mohammadi, has reportedly been allowed to leave prison for 21 days following surgery. Mohammadi, who was awarded the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought by the European Parliament in 2012, was sentenced to 16 years in prison in 2016 for her work in Iran advocating for women’s and human rights.
Her temporary leave follows a recent surgery and comes amidst the larger background of Iran releasing thousands of prisoners temporarily due to the worsening COVID-19 situation. For Mohammadi, this is a brief respite from her lengthy sentence which her supporters argue is purely politically motivated.
The Nobel laureate has been a vocal critic of the Iranian government and has always worked tirelessly for human rights in the country. Her persistent efforts have led to serious consequences including her imprisonment.
While Mohammadi’s temporary release is seen as a significant development, human rights organizations continue to call for her immediate and unconditional release.
