Norway concerned about arrests in Iran

Last updated: 29/06/2011 //

“Norway is very concerned about the arrests of documentary filmmaker Mahnaz Mohammadi and photographer Maryam Majd,” said State Secretary Erik Lahnstein.

Mahnaz Mohammadi was arrested in Teheran last Sunday, whereas Maryam Majd was arrested at the airport in Teheran last week when she was leaving for Germany to take pictures at the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Ms Mohammadi and Ms Majd are not only internationally recognised artists, but are also prominent women’s rights activists in Iran.
“We urge the Iranian authorities to release Ms Mohammadi and Ms Majd immediately, and to respect the right to freedom of expression in accordance with Iran’s international obligations,” said State Secretary Erik Lahnstein.
The arrests of the two women are the two most recent examples of the increasing pressure that is being put on Iranian journalists and filmmakers. The internationally recognised film directors Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof are also being prosecuted due to their artistic work.