Hiwa Seyfizade sentenced to four years in prison in Iran

Iranian singer Hiwa Seyfizade has been sentenced to four years in prison on charges of ‘inciting corruption and prostitution.’ The ruling follows a concert held in late February at the ‘Roo-be-Roo’ cultural complex in Tehran, which was disrupted by security forces.

There are conflicting reports regarding whether the performance had the necessary permits. While some accounts suggest the event was authorized, officials from the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance stated the concert lacked permission and noted that Seyfizade had transitioned to a solo performance during the set. Following the incident, the cultural center suspended its activities.

In a video posted to her social media, Seyfizade questioned the basis of the charges, asking, ‘How can the reading of Saadi’s poetry or an Iranian song incite corruption and prostitution?’ She expressed her intention to appeal the verdict through legal channels, noting that she has dedicated years to Iranian music despite significant professional limitations and restrictions placed on female performers in the country.