Support Deaf Communication Rights in Iran
The Issue
The YouTube link is the International Sign/ASL version of the petition
لینک یوتیوب نسخه زبان اشارانی درخواست است
Formal Petition to the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)
Concerning Communication Accessibility and the Protection of Deaf Individuals in Iran
To:
The President and Board of Directors of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)
Petitioners:
Members of the Deaf communities of Iran, hearing advocates, and international supporters for the protection of the civil, human, and communication rights of Deaf individuals in Iran.
Executive Summary:
This petition respectfully draws attention to the communication barriers currently affecting Deaf individuals in Iran during periods of internet and telecommunications disruption caused by the Islamic Republic government (IRG).
Many Deaf people rely heavily on visual and internet-based communication channels. These circumstances have significantly limited the ability of Deaf individuals to access emergency information, public safety warnings, interpretation support, and communication with family members and support networks.
Several reported incidents have raised concerns regarding the safety of Deaf individuals in situations where accessible communication and emergency information were not available.
The Petitioners respectfully request that WFD review the circumstances presented in this petition and consider appropriate advocacy, awareness, or accessibility measures consistent with WFD’s global mandate to promote and protect the rights of Deaf people worldwide.
The Petitioners further seek clarification regarding the potential role of WFD in supporting Deaf communities when national member organizations face limitations in publicly addressing such concerns.
I. Introduction
This document constitutes a formal petition addressed to WFD, the international representative organization mandated to promote, safeguard, and advance the rights, dignity, and access to society of Deaf persons worldwide.
The Petitioners respectfully submit this petition to seek international attention, institutional engagement, and advocacy concerning the circumstances currently affecting Deaf individuals in Iran, which is caused by IRG.
Recent developments involving repeated internet and telecommunications shutdowns have created serious communication barriers for Deaf individuals, limiting their ability to access emergency information, maintain communication with family members, and receive critical public safety updates.
The Petitioners submit that these circumstances raise concerns related to communication accessibility, safety, and the protection of fundamental rights, consistent with international human rights and disability rights frameworks.
II. Background and Context
On 17 January 2026, a public open letter (https://youtu.be/LM3i_J7ieqA?si=1ITCrqV2xB3emMVm) was issued documenting the severe isolation experienced by Deaf individuals in Iran due to repeated nationwide internet and telecommunications shutdowns by IRG.
These disruptions have significantly limited the ability of Deaf individuals to access:
- emergency warnings and safety instructions
- critical public information
- communication with family members and support networks
- accessible alerts during armed confrontations or security operations
The open letter was widely circulated and shared publicly. Individuals attempted to notify WFD through public platforms and direct communications.
Subsequently, on 6 March 2026, members of the Deaf community and international supporters issued a second public appeal (https://youtu.be/u4sfRS1y_KU?si=tB3cfUjzdgbhgzYw) reiterating the request for advocacy and international awareness regarding the situation.
To date, the Petitioners have not observed a public response addressing these concerns. This petition therefore seeks to respectfully request clarification and engagement.
III. Structural Barriers to Advocacy
The Petitioners note that the Iranian National Center of the Deaf (INCD), which functions as the national member organization affiliated with the WFD, operates within a national context that may limit its ability to publicly advocate on issues involving government security operations or telecommunications restrictions (IRG).
In circumstances where national organizations may face institutional or political constraints, international organizations such as WFD plays an important role in supporting global awareness, promoting accessibility, and representing the concerns of Deaf communities within international forums.
The Petitioners respectfully submit that additional international engagement could help ensure that the communication needs and safety of Deaf individuals receive appropriate attention.
IV. Documented Incidents Affecting Deaf Individuals
The Petitioners respectfully present the following reported cases which have raised concern within the international Deaf community.
The Petitioners recognize that information about individual incidents may be limited and that circumstances surrounding specific events may be subject to differing accounts. The cases presented below are therefore included solely to illustrate reported concerns regarding communication accessibility, safety, and access to information for Deaf individuals. The purpose of presenting these cases is not to determine legal responsibility but to highlight potential risks faced by Deaf individuals when accessible communication and emergency information are unavailable.
These cases illustrate the potential consequences when accessible communication and emergency information are unavailable.
Akbar Cheraghi
According to reports circulating within the Deaf community, Mr. Akbar Cheraghi, a Deaf individual employed by the Organization of Deaf Family in Tehran, was shot and killed during an incident involving security forces while returning home from his workplace.
Shirazad Balaii
Mr. Balaii, a Deaf father of two residing in Kermanshah, reportedly remained in an area during an armed confrontation as he was unable to perceive auditory warnings or evacuation instructions. He was subsequently killed during the incident.
Mobin Baziar
Reports circulating within the Deaf community indicate that Mr. Mobin Baziar, a Deaf individual residing in Rasht, was arrested and detained. No qualified sign language interpreter was reportedly provided during legal proceedings. Community members have further reported that he may have received a death sentence following these proceedings. There is no communication between him and his family, who could have helped him.
These cases raise serious concerns regarding communication access, emergency information accessibility, and procedural safeguards for Deaf individuals.
V. Relevant International and Institutional Frameworks
The Petitioners respectfully note that the protection of Deaf individuals during situations of risk and crisis is recognized within international human rights and disability rights frameworks.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), particularly Article 11, affirms the obligation of States and relevant institutions to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk, including armed conflict, humanitarian emergencies, and natural disasters.
The situation falls especially within the scope of Articles 9 (Accessibility), 11 (Situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies), and 21 (Freedom of expression and access to information). These provisions guarantee accessibility, protection in emergencies, and the right to receive information in accessible formats, including sign languages.
In addition, WFD has published guidance and policy resources emphasizing the importance of accessibility and communication rights for Deaf individuals, including in areas such as:
- Disaster Risk Reduction and emergency preparedness
- Accessibility of public information
- Recognition and protection of sign language rights
- Promotion and protection of the human rights of Deaf persons
- These frameworks emphasize that accessible communication is essential to ensuring the safety, dignity, and participation of Deaf individuals in society, particularly during periods of crisis or disruption.
VI. Requests for Consideration
In light of the circumstances described above, the Petitioners respectfully request that WFD consider the following actions:
- Public Acknowledgment
Consider issuing a public statement acknowledging awareness of the accessibility challenges currently affecting Deaf individuals in Iran. - Accessibility and Human Rights Position
Consider reaffirming the importance of accessible communication and emergency information for Deaf individuals during periods of communication disruption. - Institutional Clarification
Provide guidance regarding how WFD may support Deaf communities when national member organizations face limitations in advocating for their constituents or are unable to safely represent its Deaf constituency. In situations where national member organizations face structural or political limitations, WFD may play a complementary role by facilitating dialogue, raising awareness, and supporting accessibility initiatives. - Advocacy and Awareness
Explore potential advocacy measures or international awareness initiatives aimed at promoting communication accessibility and safety for Deaf individuals.
VII. Institutional Consideration
The Petitioners respectfully recognize the important role played by WFD as the global representative organization of Deaf communities and its longstanding commitment to promoting accessibility, human rights, and equal participation for Deaf persons worldwide.
In situations where Deaf communities may face significant communication barriers or safety risks, international leadership and advocacy from global organizations can play a critical role in raising awareness, promoting accessibility, and supporting the protection of fundamental rights.
For this reason, the Petitioners respectfully submit this petition in the spirit of constructive engagement and trust that WFD will give careful consideration to the matters presented and determine the most appropriate means of supporting communication accessibility and safety for Deaf individuals affected by these circumstances.
VIII. Request for Official Response
Given the seriousness of the concerns presented in this petition, the Petitioners respectfully request a clear and public response from WFD addressing the matters raised.
Such engagement would contribute to institutional transparency and reinforce WFD’s role in supporting Deaf communities worldwide.
IX. Suggested Timeline for Response
In order to support timely communication and clarity regarding the matters raised in this petition, the Petitioners respectfully request that WFD provide a response within a reasonable period.
In light of the previous communications already submitted on this matter, the Petitioners would appreciate a response within a reasonable timeframe (for example within fourteen days of receipt of this petition) and would welcome an acknowledgement that the matter is under consideration.
The Petitioners recognize that careful institutional review may require time; however, a response within this timeframe would help provide reassurance to concerned members of the Deaf community and demonstrate continued engagement with issues affecting Deaf individuals facing communication barriers and safety risks created by IRG.
The Petitioners remain open to constructive dialogue and welcome any opportunity for further communication or clarification that may assist WFD in addressing the concerns outlined in this document.
X. Request for Circulation and Consideration by the WFD President and Board
The Petitioners respectfully request that this petition be circulated to the President and Board of Directors of WFD for their review and consideration.
The Petitioners further request that the matters raised in this petition be given appropriate attention within WFD’s internal deliberations and governance processes, in accordance with the organization’s mandate to promote and protect the rights, accessibility, and safety of Deaf communities worldwide.
The Petitioners remain available to provide any additional information or clarification that may assist WFD in its consideration of the issues presented in this petition.
XI. Closing Declaration
This petition is submitted in good faith, with the objective of protecting human life, ensuring communication accessibility, and upholding the fundamental rights of Deaf individuals who may remain vulnerable due to systemic communication barriers.
The Petitioners respectfully trust that WFD will give this matter careful consideration consistent with its global mandate and ethical commitment to Deaf communities worldwide.
Call for International Support:
The Petitioners respectfully invite members of the global Deaf community, Deaf organizations, sign language interpreters, human rights advocates, and allies to support this petition by adding their names as signatories.
International support will help raise awareness of the communication accessibility challenges affecting Deaf individuals in Iran and encourage constructive engagement to promote safety, accessibility, and the protection of fundamental rights.
Signatories and Supporters:
This petition is supported by members of the Deaf Iranian community and international supporters of Deaf rights.
Individuals and organizations from the global Deaf community and allies are invited to support this petition.
To support this petition, please add your name through the online signatory form.
Additional signatories from the global Deaf community and supporters of Deaf rights are welcome.
References:
World Federation of the Deaf – Disaster Risk Reduction
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/disaster-risk-reduction/
World Federation of the Deaf – Human Rights Resources
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/human-rights/
World Federation of the Deaf – Sign Language Rights
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/sign-language-rights/
World Federation of the Deaf – Accessibility Resources
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/accessibility/
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities – Article 11
https://www.un.org/development/desa/disabilities/convention-on-the-rights-of-persons-with-disabilities.html
906
The Issue
The YouTube link is the International Sign/ASL version of the petition
لینک یوتیوب نسخه زبان اشارانی درخواست است
Formal Petition to the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)
Concerning Communication Accessibility and the Protection of Deaf Individuals in Iran
To:
The President and Board of Directors of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)
Petitioners:
Members of the Deaf communities of Iran, hearing advocates, and international supporters for the protection of the civil, human, and communication rights of Deaf individuals in Iran.
Executive Summary:
This petition respectfully draws attention to the communication barriers currently affecting Deaf individuals in Iran during periods of internet and telecommunications disruption caused by the Islamic Republic government (IRG).
Many Deaf people rely heavily on visual and internet-based communication channels. These circumstances have significantly limited the ability of Deaf individuals to access emergency information, public safety warnings, interpretation support, and communication with family members and support networks.
Several reported incidents have raised concerns regarding the safety of Deaf individuals in situations where accessible communication and emergency information were not available.
The Petitioners respectfully request that WFD review the circumstances presented in this petition and consider appropriate advocacy, awareness, or accessibility measures consistent with WFD’s global mandate to promote and protect the rights of Deaf people worldwide.
The Petitioners further seek clarification regarding the potential role of WFD in supporting Deaf communities when national member organizations face limitations in publicly addressing such concerns.
I. Introduction
This document constitutes a formal petition addressed to WFD, the international representative organization mandated to promote, safeguard, and advance the rights, dignity, and access to society of Deaf persons worldwide.
The Petitioners respectfully submit this petition to seek international attention, institutional engagement, and advocacy concerning the circumstances currently affecting Deaf individuals in Iran, which is caused by IRG.
Recent developments involving repeated internet and telecommunications shutdowns have created serious communication barriers for Deaf individuals, limiting their ability to access emergency information, maintain communication with family members, and receive critical public safety updates.
The Petitioners submit that these circumstances raise concerns related to communication accessibility, safety, and the protection of fundamental rights, consistent with international human rights and disability rights frameworks.
II. Background and Context
On 17 January 2026, a public open letter (https://youtu.be/LM3i_J7ieqA?si=1ITCrqV2xB3emMVm) was issued documenting the severe isolation experienced by Deaf individuals in Iran due to repeated nationwide internet and telecommunications shutdowns by IRG.
These disruptions have significantly limited the ability of Deaf individuals to access:
- emergency warnings and safety instructions
- critical public information
- communication with family members and support networks
- accessible alerts during armed confrontations or security operations
The open letter was widely circulated and shared publicly. Individuals attempted to notify WFD through public platforms and direct communications.
Subsequently, on 6 March 2026, members of the Deaf community and international supporters issued a second public appeal (https://youtu.be/u4sfRS1y_KU?si=tB3cfUjzdgbhgzYw) reiterating the request for advocacy and international awareness regarding the situation.
To date, the Petitioners have not observed a public response addressing these concerns. This petition therefore seeks to respectfully request clarification and engagement.
III. Structural Barriers to Advocacy
The Petitioners note that the Iranian National Center of the Deaf (INCD), which functions as the national member organization affiliated with the WFD, operates within a national context that may limit its ability to publicly advocate on issues involving government security operations or telecommunications restrictions (IRG).
In circumstances where national organizations may face institutional or political constraints, international organizations such as WFD plays an important role in supporting global awareness, promoting accessibility, and representing the concerns of Deaf communities within international forums.
The Petitioners respectfully submit that additional international engagement could help ensure that the communication needs and safety of Deaf individuals receive appropriate attention.
IV. Documented Incidents Affecting Deaf Individuals
The Petitioners respectfully present the following reported cases which have raised concern within the international Deaf community.
The Petitioners recognize that information about individual incidents may be limited and that circumstances surrounding specific events may be subject to differing accounts. The cases presented below are therefore included solely to illustrate reported concerns regarding communication accessibility, safety, and access to information for Deaf individuals. The purpose of presenting these cases is not to determine legal responsibility but to highlight potential risks faced by Deaf individuals when accessible communication and emergency information are unavailable.
These cases illustrate the potential consequences when accessible communication and emergency information are unavailable.
Akbar Cheraghi
According to reports circulating within the Deaf community, Mr. Akbar Cheraghi, a Deaf individual employed by the Organization of Deaf Family in Tehran, was shot and killed during an incident involving security forces while returning home from his workplace.
Shirazad Balaii
Mr. Balaii, a Deaf father of two residing in Kermanshah, reportedly remained in an area during an armed confrontation as he was unable to perceive auditory warnings or evacuation instructions. He was subsequently killed during the incident.
Mobin Baziar
Reports circulating within the Deaf community indicate that Mr. Mobin Baziar, a Deaf individual residing in Rasht, was arrested and detained. No qualified sign language interpreter was reportedly provided during legal proceedings. Community members have further reported that he may have received a death sentence following these proceedings. There is no communication between him and his family, who could have helped him.
These cases raise serious concerns regarding communication access, emergency information accessibility, and procedural safeguards for Deaf individuals.
V. Relevant International and Institutional Frameworks
The Petitioners respectfully note that the protection of Deaf individuals during situations of risk and crisis is recognized within international human rights and disability rights frameworks.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), particularly Article 11, affirms the obligation of States and relevant institutions to ensure the protection and safety of persons with disabilities in situations of risk, including armed conflict, humanitarian emergencies, and natural disasters.
The situation falls especially within the scope of Articles 9 (Accessibility), 11 (Situations of risk and humanitarian emergencies), and 21 (Freedom of expression and access to information). These provisions guarantee accessibility, protection in emergencies, and the right to receive information in accessible formats, including sign languages.
In addition, WFD has published guidance and policy resources emphasizing the importance of accessibility and communication rights for Deaf individuals, including in areas such as:
- Disaster Risk Reduction and emergency preparedness
- Accessibility of public information
- Recognition and protection of sign language rights
- Promotion and protection of the human rights of Deaf persons
- These frameworks emphasize that accessible communication is essential to ensuring the safety, dignity, and participation of Deaf individuals in society, particularly during periods of crisis or disruption.
VI. Requests for Consideration
In light of the circumstances described above, the Petitioners respectfully request that WFD consider the following actions:
- Public Acknowledgment
Consider issuing a public statement acknowledging awareness of the accessibility challenges currently affecting Deaf individuals in Iran. - Accessibility and Human Rights Position
Consider reaffirming the importance of accessible communication and emergency information for Deaf individuals during periods of communication disruption. - Institutional Clarification
Provide guidance regarding how WFD may support Deaf communities when national member organizations face limitations in advocating for their constituents or are unable to safely represent its Deaf constituency. In situations where national member organizations face structural or political limitations, WFD may play a complementary role by facilitating dialogue, raising awareness, and supporting accessibility initiatives. - Advocacy and Awareness
Explore potential advocacy measures or international awareness initiatives aimed at promoting communication accessibility and safety for Deaf individuals.
VII. Institutional Consideration
The Petitioners respectfully recognize the important role played by WFD as the global representative organization of Deaf communities and its longstanding commitment to promoting accessibility, human rights, and equal participation for Deaf persons worldwide.
In situations where Deaf communities may face significant communication barriers or safety risks, international leadership and advocacy from global organizations can play a critical role in raising awareness, promoting accessibility, and supporting the protection of fundamental rights.
For this reason, the Petitioners respectfully submit this petition in the spirit of constructive engagement and trust that WFD will give careful consideration to the matters presented and determine the most appropriate means of supporting communication accessibility and safety for Deaf individuals affected by these circumstances.
VIII. Request for Official Response
Given the seriousness of the concerns presented in this petition, the Petitioners respectfully request a clear and public response from WFD addressing the matters raised.
Such engagement would contribute to institutional transparency and reinforce WFD’s role in supporting Deaf communities worldwide.
IX. Suggested Timeline for Response
In order to support timely communication and clarity regarding the matters raised in this petition, the Petitioners respectfully request that WFD provide a response within a reasonable period.
In light of the previous communications already submitted on this matter, the Petitioners would appreciate a response within a reasonable timeframe (for example within fourteen days of receipt of this petition) and would welcome an acknowledgement that the matter is under consideration.
The Petitioners recognize that careful institutional review may require time; however, a response within this timeframe would help provide reassurance to concerned members of the Deaf community and demonstrate continued engagement with issues affecting Deaf individuals facing communication barriers and safety risks created by IRG.
The Petitioners remain open to constructive dialogue and welcome any opportunity for further communication or clarification that may assist WFD in addressing the concerns outlined in this document.
X. Request for Circulation and Consideration by the WFD President and Board
The Petitioners respectfully request that this petition be circulated to the President and Board of Directors of WFD for their review and consideration.
The Petitioners further request that the matters raised in this petition be given appropriate attention within WFD’s internal deliberations and governance processes, in accordance with the organization’s mandate to promote and protect the rights, accessibility, and safety of Deaf communities worldwide.
The Petitioners remain available to provide any additional information or clarification that may assist WFD in its consideration of the issues presented in this petition.
XI. Closing Declaration
This petition is submitted in good faith, with the objective of protecting human life, ensuring communication accessibility, and upholding the fundamental rights of Deaf individuals who may remain vulnerable due to systemic communication barriers.
The Petitioners respectfully trust that WFD will give this matter careful consideration consistent with its global mandate and ethical commitment to Deaf communities worldwide.
Call for International Support:
The Petitioners respectfully invite members of the global Deaf community, Deaf organizations, sign language interpreters, human rights advocates, and allies to support this petition by adding their names as signatories.
International support will help raise awareness of the communication accessibility challenges affecting Deaf individuals in Iran and encourage constructive engagement to promote safety, accessibility, and the protection of fundamental rights.
Signatories and Supporters:
This petition is supported by members of the Deaf Iranian community and international supporters of Deaf rights.
Individuals and organizations from the global Deaf community and allies are invited to support this petition.
To support this petition, please add your name through the online signatory form.
Additional signatories from the global Deaf community and supporters of Deaf rights are welcome.
References:
World Federation of the Deaf – Disaster Risk Reduction
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/disaster-risk-reduction/
World Federation of the Deaf – Human Rights Resources
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/human-rights/
World Federation of the Deaf – Sign Language Rights
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/sign-language-rights/
World Federation of the Deaf – Accessibility Resources
https://wfdeaf.org/resources/accessibility/
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities – Article 11
https://www.un.org/development/desa/disabilities/convention-on-the-rights-of-persons-with-disabilities.html
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Petition created on March 15, 2026