We, the signatories, strongly condemn the conviction and sentencing to death of the Iranian rappers Toomaj Salehi and Saman Yasin, for "waging war against God" (moharebeh) and/or "corruption on earth" (efsad-e fel-arz).

We are deeply concerned that their conviction and subsequent sentencing are in violation of Iran's international obligations to respect, protect and promote freedom of expression, opinion, and belief. In addition, the sentencing to death of Toomaj Salehi and Saman Yasin amounts to a cruel and inhuman practice, which has no place in modern society. 

Saman Yasin was arrested on 2 October 2022 in relation to his songs in which he reportedly criticized the Government. Toomaj Salehi was arrested on 30 October 2022, for posting videos of himself actively asking his followers to participate in demonstrations, and for songs criticizing Iranian authorities.

"Someone's crime was that her hair was flowing in the wind. Someone's crime was that he or she was brave and were outspoken.”

These lyrics could cost Iranian rap artist Toomaj Salehi his life. In almost any other country he could have freely rapped about the day-to-day problems facing his countrymen without consequence. 

Saman Yasin was sentenced to death by the prosecutor Salavati, who has been sanctioned by the EU and US treasury department, accused of frequently handing out lengthy jail terms, lashes or death to journalists, lawyers, political activists, and ethnic and religious minorities. 

Saman Yasin raps about inequality, oppression and unemployment and he was allegedly tortured physically and mentally while awaiting trial, according to Kurdish human rights group Hengaw. 

Defend artistic freedom - free Toomaj Salehi and Saman Yasin!