The International Federation of Journalists today called on Iran to investigate the tragic death of Canadian photojournalist Zahra Kazemi, and to “bring her killers to justice.”
Kazemi was arrested last month after taking photos of a prison where several student protestors had been incarcerated. Subsequently, while in police custody, it was reported that she was beaten into unconsciousness. She then died over the weekend after lapsing into a coma from a brain hemorrhage.
“This is a tragic and sad loss," said Aidan White, IFJ General Secretary. "We send our most heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.” “We demand that the Iranian authorities explain what happened and who was responsible and make sure that they are brought to justice.”
The IFJ says that the Iranian authorities needs to respect the wishes of Kazemi’s son, Stephane Hachemi and to facilitate the transportation of her body to Canada for an autopsy. “This country continues to show a callous disregard for journalists’ rights, and the current situation represents a stern assessment of its ability to continue on the path to democracy,” said White.
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The IFJ represents more than 500,000 journalists in more than 100 countries
