Another Case of the Enforced Disappearance of Dissident Artists in Iran
Amid the growing wave of repression against dissenting voices in Iran, reports have emerged about the abduction of Danial Meshki, a young dissident rapper. The 23-year-old artist, known for his critical lyrics against the theocratic regime, was reportedly arrested by security forces in Tehran about ten days ago. Since then, there has been no information about his condition or whereabouts. The complete lack of communication has significantly heightened concerns about his health and safety.
Enforced Disappearance: A Tool for Silencing Dissent
Danial Meshki was among the artists who played an active role during the nationwide uprising of 2022, using his protest music—such as the song “Hashashin”—to reflect state violence and demand justice for victims. In that track and others, he harshly criticized the suppression, torture, and killing of unarmed protesters, calling for an end to the cycle of structural violence.
However, his artistic activities did not go unnoticed by the security apparatus. According to sources close to the case, Danial Meshki was abducted in a highly covert operation without any legal process. So far, no official body has claimed responsibility for his detention—a behavior that, under international law, is defined as enforced disappearance and is prosecutable as a crime against humanity.
A Push to Silence the Art of Resistance
Danial Meshki, of Azerbaijani descent and a resident of Tehran, became a voice for a weary and oppressed generation—especially following the 2022 protests—using online platforms and music streaming services to amplify the truth. In one of his final voice messages, he directly held Ali Larijani and Ali Khamenei accountable for the violence inflicted upon the people.
The themes of Danial’s work revolved around justice, freedom, and opposition to religious rule—making him one of the prominent voices in resistance music. His songs were not just artistic expressions but documents of collective protest.
