Evin Prison, one of the most notorious prisons of the Islamic Republic of Iran, has once again come under scrutiny for its violation of the human rights of inmates. This time, reports highlight the dire conditions of sick prisoners, pointing to deliberate and systematic neglect of their health and medical care.
With the onset of winter, the rise in seasonal, viral, and infectious diseases has worsened the conditions for sick prisoners in Evin Prison. Evidence indicates that neglect of their medical needs is intentional. Authorities, including the judiciary, the Ministry of Intelligence, and the IRGC Intelligence, have taken no action, and cases of prisoner deaths due to lack of medical attention have been reported.
Medical Challenges in Ward 4 of Evin Prison
According to reliable sources:
- Despite the presence of doctors and medical staff, only a limited number of prisoners are selectively examined.
- Prisoners are informed that no doctor is available, and only emergency cases are attended to.
- This practice has led many sick prisoners to endure prolonged pain and suffering, with some even nearing death.
Life-Threatening Consequences of Medical Neglect
Many prisoners, whether they entered the prison with pre-existing conditions or developed illnesses while incarcerated, face serious health threats. While timely hospital transfers or medical furloughs could improve their conditions, deliberate delays in providing medical services have exacerbated their situation, putting their lives at risk.
Financial Barriers and Discrimination in Treatment
- Prisoners unable to afford medical expenses are deprived of healthcare services.
- Even those with financial means face significant delays due to excuses such as a lack of personnel to escort them to hospitals, resulting in weeks or months of postponed treatment and worsening health conditions.
Ward 5 of Evin Prison houses elderly and sick prisoners who are often incapable of performing daily tasks due to aging and severe illnesses. Some of these prisoners are over 90 years old and suffer from serious health conditions. Frequent closures of the medical unit, shortages of common medications, and air pollution have severely worsened their plight.
The presented evidence reveals a clear and systematic violation of the rights of sick prisoners in Evin Prison. These actions not only contradict basic human and ethical principles but also breach international human rights laws. We call on all human rights organizations to take immediate action to investigate and address this situation and to pressure the Iranian authorities to improve medical conditions for prisoners. The lives of many inmates depend on swift and effective measures.
