Lecturer Sacked for Attending Dissident Funeral
Dr. Abbas Kazemi, a Tehran University professor working in the Department of Social Sciences, has reportedly been dismissed from his position after chanting slogans during the funeral procession of prominent dissident cleric, Grand Ayatollah Seyed Ali Montazeri.
International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran (ICHRI) have quoted a report written by a student at the university, who reveals that the professors contract with Tehran University was originally valid until 21 September 2010. The University has subsequently revoked that contract, relieving him of his duties as of 21 January 2010.
The professor is a prominent critic of the Iranian regime and is a former winner of the Kharazmi Prize.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
NEAR continues to monitor the situation of other academics and students in Iran. Dr Tajbakhsh, an Iranian-American scholar, was detained on charges of espionage during the post-election protests. Dr Maleki, former Chancellor of Tehran University, was arrested and detained after criticising the election process.
This week the Islamic Republic celebrates its 31st anniversary, marking the day in 1979 that the Shah's forces capitulated in the Iranian revolution. There is considerable concern that any protests will be met with a harsh response.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Please send appeals:
1. Calling for the re-instatement of Dr. Abbas Kazemi to the Department of Social Sciences at Tehran University, under the terms of his original contract.
2. Reminding the authorities of their obligations to protect freedom of belief and association under international law.
APPEALS TO:
Chancellor of the University of Tehran
Dr. Farhad Rahbar
Central Administration of University of Tehran
16 Azar Street, Enghelab Ave
Tehran
Islamic Republic of Iran
His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
President, Islamic Republic of Iran
Palestine Avenue
Azerbaijan Intersection
Tehran
Islamic Republic of Iran
PLEASE ALSO SEND COPIES OF YOUR APPEALS TO:
Programme Officer,
Network for Education and Academic Rights (NEAR)
90 London Road,
SE1 9LN
London, UK
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7021 0884
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7021 0881
contact@nearinternational.org
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Alert - Iran
| Date: | 04 February 2010 |
| Source: | International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran |
| Classification: | Media Article |
| Violation: | Arbitrary Dismissal |
| Affected Persons: | Dr. Abbas Kazemi |
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