Foundations and Manifestations of Rights Derived from the Human Dignity of Prisoners in Iranian Criminal Law
Keywords:
human dignity of prisoners, imprisonment, prisoners’ rights, human rights, human dignity in IslamAbstract
Today, imprisonment—whether as a principal punishment or as a result of converting other punishments such as the death penalty and others (under the influence of criminological doctrines)—has become the focus of attention in criminal systems and legal frameworks around the world. Since the subject of imprisonment is the incarcerated individual, paying attention to the rights of prisoners during the enforcement of their sentences is of special importance. Considering the foundations of observing the rights derived from the human dignity of prisoners in domestic laws and their manifestations, failure to uphold these rights, in addition to resulting in criminal, civil, administrative, or disciplinary penalties for the offenders (enforcers), signifies a weakness in the judiciary, a defect in the penal system, and a loss of national and international credibility regarding the treatment of prisoners. By examining and analyzing the existing regulations in this field—which is the objective of the present study—it will be possible, while preserving the rights derived from prisoners’ dignity, to critique and reform relevant regulations and the judicial system, predict monitoring mechanisms, ensure enforcement guarantees for violations of these rights, and enhance both national and international credibility of the country. This research is conducted through a descriptive–analytical method based on library resources, documents, and specialized websites. Throughout the study, the author seeks to examine domestic laws and analyze the most significant legal provisions to address and remedy possible substantive and procedural deficiencies within these regulations. Although, quantitatively, the existing laws appear sufficient, qualitatively and practically—in terms of enforcement guarantees and supervisory aspects—it is necessary for private institutions and non-governmental organizations active in this field to assist official and governmental supervisory bodies.
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