The eyes of a revolution and the stories behind them
Resources
The United Nations Independent Fact Finding Mission
On 24 November 2022 the Human Rights Council voted for the establishment of an independent fact finding mission on the deteriorating human rights condition in Iran (the mission).
This was established in resolution S35/1. The mandate of the mission was extended at the 54th meeting of the Human Rights Council in resolution 55/19 on 4 April 2024 to continue to monitor the ongoing situation of human rights.
The Terms of Reference of the mandate provide further detail on the specifics of the work to be carried out, and of the standard of proof being considered.
The call for submissions of evidence linked to the human rights violations being committed in Iran is still open.
For assistance with submissions, or any questions, please contact us via email or instagram.
The mission released its first detailed report in March of 2024 which included details of deliberate and systematic injury to eyes of protesters and bystanders.
The reports along with other documents published by the mission can be found on their website. It should be noted that many of their reports have not been translated to Farsi.
Iranwire: Blinding as a Weapon
Spearheaded by Senior Journalist Aida Ghajar, Iranwire have a special feature called “Blinding as a Weapon” dedicated to sharing the stories of those who have suffered eye injuries.
As part of this series, Iranwire have released to date two special reports.
Blinding as a Weapon: An Ophthalmological Review
Released 3 March 2023.
This report employs the expertise of multiple ophthalmologists in reviewing and assessing the extent of eye injuries and what care and prognosis would be involved.
Special Report: The Islamic Republic’s Use of Blinding as a Weapon of War Against Protesters
Released 21 September 2023
A compiled report of the 50 cases of eye injuries confirmed by Iranwire.
Iran Human Rights Organisation
Iran Protests 2022: Women Protester Eyes Intentionally and Systematically Targeted
On 22 September 2023 Iran Human Rights (IHR) released a report naming 100 cases of eye injuries.
This report assisted in establishing the systematic nature of the injuries and demonstrated how women and ethnic groups were more likely to be targeted.
Eyes for Freedom | Cheshm Baraye Azadi | چشم برای آزادی 