Statement of concern for students and scientists in Iran

The IUCr condemns the recent action of Iranian authorities that has led to violence on university campuses. We are also dismayed by the disciplinary actions taken by Iranian leaders against women, students and scientists for participating in protests or simply expressing their opinion in a peaceful way. Many student activists have been abducted and arrested on various campuses, and growing numbers of students and researchers have been expelled from universities for participation in on-campus protests.

Iranian scientists hold a strong position in advancing science (including structural sciences) and technology, and actions like these severely destabilize international collaboration.

Since its establishment 75 years ago, the IUCr has always strived to create equal opportunities for scientists around the world, regardless of their gender, nationality, race and religion.

We support the rights and freedoms presented in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for all people and specifically we support the promotion of the freedom of speech on university campuses worldwide as well as the provision of free and open internet access to all campuses.

The IUCr Newsletter recently published an Open Letter from Professor Shanti Deemyad, a prominent structural scientist from the University of Utah, USA, in which she highlighted the dire situation in Iran.

In accordance with making this statement, the IUCr aims to create the opportunity for scientists from around the world to take part in our schools and programmes.

We align with the ISC statement on concerns for scientists in Iran, and we demand the release of student and faculty members arrested due to protest from Iranian prisons.

Hanna Dabkowska, IUCr President
Alex Stanley, IUCr CEO

on behalf of the IUCr Executive Committee