93 University of Kurdistan Professors in Support of Teachers: Repeal of Repressive Rulings and the Need for Civil Solidarity
On Sunday, September 1, 2025, 93 professors from the University of Kurdistan issued a statement condemning the dismissal, forced retirement, and exile of teachers in the province, calling such measures violations of human dignity and professional rights. They emphasized that these decisions contradict Article 27 of the Iranian Constitution as well as Iran’s international human rights commitments, and constitute a suppression of teachers' right to voice their legitimate demands.
The professors expressed deep concern and called for the immediate repeal of these rulings and for the creation of conditions that allow free professional activity and unionization for teachers. They warned that continuing this approach would erode public trust and exacerbate social crises.
Key Highlights from the Statement:
Education: The Pillar of Societal Progress
The statement describes education as the gateway to both material and spiritual development in society. The professors stressed that this mission can only be fulfilled when dedicated and knowledgeable teachers are allowed to play their role in shaping future generations. They noted that teachers in Kurdistan, particularly members of the teachers’ union, have repeatedly demonstrated their commitment and sincerity in this regard.
Dismissals and Exile: Violations of Human Dignity
The statement strongly criticizes the dismissal, forced retirement, exile, and termination of a number of teachers in Kurdistan. The professors emphasized that such decisions not only harm teachers but are clearly aimed at discouraging labor activism, and pose a serious obstacle to the country’s progress.
Violation of the Constitution and Iran’s International Obligations
The professors pointed out that the rulings issued by administrative disciplinary committees are often more severe than judicial sentences and violate both the professional and civil rights of teachers. Referring to Article 27 of the Constitution, they emphasized that the right to form gatherings and associations is a natural right of every citizen, and any restriction in this area represents a clear breach of the Constitution and Iran's international human rights obligations.
Suppressing Teachers’ Right to Express Legal Demands
The statement views the harsh punishments against union activists as an attempt to suppress the legitimate demands of teachers. It warns that such a repressive approach not only prevents teachers from fulfilling their professional duties but also creates social unrest and undermines public trust.
Civil Society Solidarity with Kurdistan’s Teachers
The professors noted that in recent months, numerous civil society organizations, labor activists, and prominent intellectuals across the country have issued statements of support and expressed solidarity with teachers in Kurdistan, demanding the revocation of the disciplinary rulings and the reinstatement of teachers to their professional positions.
Professors’ Demands
In the concluding section, the University of Kurdistan professors called on authorities and relevant institutions to:
Immediately revoke the rulings issued against Kurdistan’s teachers.
Provide the necessary conditions for union activity, freedom of association, and respect for teachers’ human dignity.
They warned that continuing this trend amid the country's current economic and social difficulties is illogical, contrary to national interests, and will only increase public distrust.
