Iran

President Hassan Rouhani secured a second four-year term in office in May 2017, in an election marked by debate over the state of civil and political rights in Iran. But despite harsh criticisms he made on the human rights situation during his campaign, he has done little to curtail the rampant violations of the security apparatus and the judiciary, especially as they have continued their crackdown on citizens’ legitimate exercise of their rights to free expression and assembly. Iran has also experienced protests expressing frustration against the government, including allegations of corruption and the lack of political and social freedoms. Several women have also been arrested and detained for their protests against mandatory dress laws.