Ei-iE

Iranian teachers trying to attend a trade union meeting have been illegally detained in Iran. Teacher trade unions convened the meeting to give members the opportunity to peacefully discuss possible activities to celebrate World Teachers Day. Every year on 5 October, millions of educators worldwide undertake public activities highlighting that quality education is a fundamental right for everyone.

Unfortunately, our colleagues in Iran did not even have the chance to meet and to share ideas and knowledge about World Teachers’ Day. Teachers approaching the private building that was to host the meeting were harrassed by intelligence agents and were taken to various police stations. After 16 hours of illegal detention, 22 teachers were released; others were released later, after having been beaten. EI continues to object vigorously to the order by the Iranian Interior Ministry banning teacher union activities. The right of trade unions and teacher associations to operate and hold meetings to discuss professional questions, without prior authorization, is an essential element of freedom of association. Public authorities should refrain from any interference which would restrict trade union rights. The arrest of trade union leaders and members constitutes a violation of the trade union rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. EI has sent a protest letter to the Iranian authorities requesting that teachers arrested in connection with the meeting about World Teachers' Day do not suffer consequences in their private or professional lives. Education International and its affiliates worldwide will continue to monitor the trade union environment in Iran.