Surge in Executions of Women in Iran: Highest in 17 Years

According to a report by Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO), at least 31 women were executed in Iran in 2024, marking the highest annual toll in 17 years, Jurist News published yesterday. Since 2010, at least 241 women have faced execution in the country. The report highlights that around 70% of these women were accused of killing male partners, often in abusive relationships, but Iranian law does not recognize mitigating circumstances like spousal abuse.

The rise in executions is also linked to Iran’s anti-narcotics laws, with drug-related death penalties reaching a record high despite previous reforms. The judicial system’s opacity means that only 26% of female executions are publicly reported, a figure that has dropped to 12% since 2021.

Concerns have been raised by UN officials regarding violations of fair trial rights, urging a moratorium on the death penalty. Following the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protests in 2022, authorities have intensified their crackdown on women, including through capital punishment.