In the heart of Groningen, Netherlands, Soran Mansournia keeps a framed photograph of his late younger brother, Borhan. The poignant image was captured in August 2019 against the natural splendor of Iran’s Kurdistan province, depicting Borhan’s joyful smile. Just three months later, during an anti-government protest in Kermanshah, Borhan lost his life at the hands of Iranian security forces, marking a profound personal tragedy for Mansournia that has fueled his dedication to activism.
Activism and Trauma in the Face of Oppression
Mansournia, who considers Borhan not just a sibling but a confidant, endured severe repercussions following his brother’s death. During a clampdown on protests in November 2019, Iranian security forces allegedly killed over 323 individuals as they attempted to suppress dissent sparked by rising fuel prices. After Borhan’s murder, Mansournia faced relentless interrogations by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Seeking refuge, he relocated to the Netherlands in 2021, assuming a role as a university lecturer while maintaining a robust online presence, speaking at rallies, and advocating for human rights in Iran.
However, Mansournia’s newfound freedom has not shielded him from threats. He has continuously experienced harassment and intimidation from individuals he believes are affiliated with the Iranian regime. The situation intensified following the onset of the Iran-Israel conflict in early 2022, leading him to worry for his safety. Despite Dutch authorities monitoring his activity for protection, he feels their efforts fall short of ensuring his safety.
The Growing Climate of Fear Among Iranian Dissidents
As tensions between Iran and Western nations escalated, the atmosphere of fear among Iranian dissidents in Europe deepened. In March of this year, the attempted assassination of a vocal critic in the Netherlands underscored the persistent threat posed by Iranian operatives abroad. Amid these events, the Iranian intelligence reportedly surveilled Mansournia, capturing videos of him and his partner and warning him about dire consequences if he continued his activism.
Mansournia’s concerns multiplied when he received direct threats, including ominous calls from individuals speaking Farsi. On one occasion, a caller warned him to “watch himself,” instilling a heightened sense of vulnerability. These experiences led him to adjust his daily routines and consider temporary relocation to ensure his safety, reflecting the severe reality for many exiled Iranians who feel unwelcome in their host countries.
International Responses and the Fight for Security
Despite the European Union’s decision to label the IRGC as a terrorist organization in early 2023, the transnational repression of Iranian dissidents has persisted. Activists like Vahid Beheshti, who has been fighting for recognition of these threats, argue that such designations should empower law enforcement with more robust tools to protect dissidents. Beheshti, who has faced threats and was previously hospitalized after a hunger strike, emphasizes the urgency for governments to take concrete actions against the threat posed by the Iranian regime.
The recent violent incidents targeting Iranian critics in Europe highlight the pressing need for effective countermeasures. For instance, the stabbing of journalist Pouria Zeraati in London exemplifies the perilous environment that exiled dissidents navigate. Reports showcasing unprecedented levels of transnational threats indicate that many feel abandoned by the very nations they turned to for refuge.
Despite their circumstances, Iranian dissidents remain steadfast, determined to amplify their voices against oppression. Activists like Mansournia and Beheshti continue to galvanize their communities, believing that support for those protesting within Iran can ultimately lead to significant change. In an era marked by turmoil, their resilience serves as a testament to the power of hope in the face of adversity.