Child Rights Activists in Iran and the Juvenile Justice Centre have issued a joint statement expressing grave concern over the imminent risk of execution faced by children and adolescents in Iran, including 18-year-old Shervin Bagherian.
The statement warns that the execution of individuals for offences allegedly committed while they were under the age of 18 continues despite Iran’s obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child and other international human rights treaties. It also highlights growing concerns over the use of politically motivated charges, unfair trials, torture, and forced confessions against children and adolescents.
According to information cited in the statement, at least 184 adolescents arrested during the January 2026 protests remain imprisoned, with at least 14 sentenced to death. Two have already been executed, while others remain at imminent risk.
The statement calls on the United Nations, governments, international organizations, media, and human rights defenders to take urgent action before more executions take place.
The signatories demand:
- Immediate suspension of all death sentences imposed for offences allegedly committed by persons under 18.
- An end to the use of security-related charges against children and adolescents.
- Immediate access to independent legal representation.
- Fair trial guarantees in accordance with international law.
Every child has the right to life, dignity, and justice. The international community must act before it is too late.
Read the full joint statement below.
