Europe must not look away: defending Human Rights in Iran and protecting civilians in Syria

The Party of European Socialists (PES) stands firmly with the people of Iran who continue to peacefully protest against the severe economic situation and against the repressive policies of the authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The courage shown by Iranian citizens in the face of repression is a powerful reminder that the aspiration for democracy and human rights is universal and cannot be silenced by force.

The violent crackdown on peaceful demonstrators, arbitrary arrests, and the silencing of dissent constitute serious violations of fundamental rights. According to NGOs such as the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), the deaths of 490 protesters and 48 security officers have been reported, with more than 10,600 arrested in two weeks of demonstrations. Iranian authorities must fully respect their international human rights obligations and guarantee the safety and freedoms of their citizens. The European Union and the international community cannot remain silent in the face of such abuses.

Stefan Löfven, President of the Party of European Socialists, said:

"When people peacefully take to the streets to demand freedom and dignity, they must be met with dialogue, not violence. The use of internet and telephone disruption by the government as a means of reducing people's ability to participate and to cover the violence it perpetrates against them is unacceptable. The repression and killing of protesters are unacceptable and must stop.

Europe has a responsibility to stand firmly for human rights, international law, and the protection of civilians. Any EU engagement must be principled, conditional, and focused on inclusive political solutions that give people a real future."

The PES has long and consistently stood in solidarity with the Iranian opposition and civil society actors demanding justice and respect for human rights. The killing of Mahsa Amini in 2022 marked a tragic turning point that continues to shape the struggle for women's rights and fundamental freedoms in Iran. This commitment was reaffirmed at the PES Congress in Berlin later that year and remains a key reference for the PES's position. The PES named after Mahsa Amini the leader's meeting room during the 2025 congress in Amsterdam, in memory of Mahsa and all Iranians killed by the regime in their fight for freedom and democracy.

At the same time, we are following closely the developments in Syria, particularly in and around Aleppo, and express deep concern over renewed violence targeting civilians and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The SDF have been a key partner in the fight against the so-called Islamic State (ISIS) and have played an important role in maintaining stability in the region.

The President of the Party of European Socialists, Stefan Löfven, added:

"The renewed attacks against civilians, particularly in Aleppo, are deeply alarming and risk further destabilising an already fragile situation. Peace cannot be selective or conditional on geopolitical interests. Protecting civilians and supporting a sustainable ceasefire are essential, and any EU engagement must be firmly grounded in respect for international law and an inclusive political perspective."

As European progressives, we firmly believe that any form of EU engagement or support must be guided by clear principles: respect for human rights, international law, and inclusive political processes that give people a genuine voice in shaping their future.

Across the region, our message is clear: people must never be the victims of repression, violence, or geopolitical power games. Europe must be united and step up as a credible global actor, standing consistently for human rights, multilateralism, and peace.