human rights defender

Motahareh Goneyi

HRD's year of birth

1996

HRD's Gender

Woman

Type of HRD

  • Academic
  • Journalist/Blogger
  • Social and community leader

HRD's thematic area of engagement

  • Civil and political rights
  • Economic, social and cultural rights
  • Women's rights

HRD's geographical origin

Urban

Current Status

Released on bail

HRD's bio and work

Motahareh Goneyi, an active advocate for students' rights and social justice within academic settings, has been a prominent voice in addressing issues such as gender inequality, freedom of expression, and equitable access to education. Her efforts on university campuses have focused on organizing student-led initiatives, creating platforms for open dialogue, and challenging discriminatory policies. These activities, which emphasize peaceful advocacy, have garnered significant support among students and faculty. However, her bold stance has also subjected her to disciplinary actions, surveillance, and harassment by university authorities and security forces, reflecting the broader challenges faced by student activists striving for reform in restrictive environments.

Detained since

Oct 7, 2024

Date of release

Jul 15, 2025

Charge(s)

  • Anti-government propaganda
  • Other

Sentence

Ms. Motahareh Goneyi has been sentenced to 1 year of imprisonment, temporary suspension from education, and relocation to Ardabil University of Medical Sciences. She has also been sentenced to 21 months in prison in another case by Branch 29 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court.

Geolocation of detention

Country or area of detention

Region of detention

  • Asia: Southern Asia

Location of detention - City/Town

Tehran

Location of detention - Facility

Evin Prison

Recent case update / evolution

Motahareh Goneyi, a student activist, has been sentenced to 21 months in prison by Branch 29 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court.

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