Iran's president backs freedom for scholars, students
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 14 October 2013 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iran's president backs freedom for scholars, students, 14 October 2013, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/526104b2b.html [accessed 30 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
October 14, 2013
Iranian President Hassan Rohani speaks to Tehran University students and professors in Tehran on October 14.
Iranian President Hassan Rohani has called for granting Iranian scholars and students more opportunity to take part in international gatherings.
Speaking at Tehran University, Rohani said it was a "shame" that students and professors "are not able to express their viewpoints."
He urged "all security apparatuses, including the Intelligence Ministry," not to block scholars from taking part in international conferences.
In recent years, dozens of students and professors have been expelled from schools or forced into retirement after attending gatherings abroad.
Rohani said his administration will not tolerate "factional pressures on universities."
Rohani, who took office in August, has previously called for lifting restrictions on access to social media and criticized a police crackdown on perceived violations of the Islamic dress code for women.
Based on reporting by AP and RFE/RL's Radio Farda
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
