Systematic Human Rights Violations in Dowlatabad Prison: A Harrowing Report on the Conditions of Female Political Prisoners
Dowlatabad Prison in Isfahan has become a new epicenter for the systemic abuse of incarcerated women—particularly political prisoners—amid appalling living conditions, psychological torture, and a complete disregard for basic human rights. The forced transfer of all female inmates across Isfahan province to this facility has intensified concerns over the safety and dignity of these prisoners.
Following the closure of the women’s ward in Dastgerd Prison, authorities relocated all female prisoners to Dowlatabad Prison, a facility lacking even the most basic standards. The decision to house inmates without regard for the nature of their offenses has created a highly dangerous environment, putting the lives of political prisoners at constant risk.
No Separation of Offenses – A Clear Violation of International Law
Dowlatabad Prison is divided into two separate sections: one controlled by the Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the other by the Morality Police and the State Security Force. However, neither section observes the principle of separating prisoners based on the type of offense.
Female political prisoners are held alongside individuals convicted of violent crimes such as murder and armed robbery—an explicit violation of international human rights conventions.
When political prisoners raise concerns over these unsafe conditions, prison authorities respond with mockery and humiliation, referring to them as “criminals like everyone else.” The only inmates housed separately are those convicted of financial crimes.
Unsanitary Conditions, Deprivation of Basic Necessities
The living conditions in Dowlatabad Prison are alarmingly inhumane. Families are prohibited from sending even the most basic items—blankets, clothing, or hygiene products. The facility is infested with bedbugs and insects, and prisoners are forced to sleep on filthy, worn-out bedding. In a confidential letter, one prisoner wrote:
“Every night, we go to sleep fearing insect bites. Our clothes reek, and there’s no way to wash them.”
Humiliating Visitation Procedures
Weekly visitations are marred by humiliation and harsh restrictions. Families are subjected to invasive and degrading body searches before being allowed into the visitation area. In many cases, they are not permitted to bring food or other essential supplies. These encounters inflict deep psychological stress on both the inmates and their loved ones.
Persistent Threats Against Political Prisoners
Credible reports indicate that political prisoners in Dowlatabad Prison are subjected to ongoing harassment and orchestrated pressure. In some instances, inmates with violent backgrounds and unstable mental conditions are incited—or even recruited—by prison authorities to harass, attack, or file false accusations against political prisoners. These acts not only jeopardize the physical and mental safety of the inmates but are often used as a pretext for fabricating new charges against them.
In a confidential report, one former prisoner stated:
“In this prison, you must expect an attack at any moment. Even your breathing is monitored.”
In such a hostile environment, there have been reports of suicide attempts among inmates. The combination of violence, humiliation, psychological torment, and lack of basic necessities paints a chilling picture of what is known as white torture—a silent yet devastating form of abuse deployed against women whose only “crime” is their defiance of the ruling order.
