Supporting Victims of Organized Crime in the Iranian Legal System

• In Event: Intersecting Injustices: Police Brutality, Organized Crime, and Forced Displacement

Abstract

Supporting Victims of Organized Crime in the Iranian Legal System
Dr Neusha Ghahremani Afshar
Department of law, Urmia branch ,Islamic Azad university ,Urmia ,Iran

Organized crime poses a significant threat to individuals and society, leading to severe financial, physical, and psychological harm to its victims. In Iran, legal frameworks provide some level of protection for crime victims; however, the support mechanisms for victims of organized crime remain insufficient. The Iranian legal system, primarily governed by the Islamic Penal Code and the Criminal Procedure Code, lacks comprehensive provisions specifically tailored to address the unique vulnerabilities of victims of organized crime. Supporting victims of organized crime presents several critical challenges, including:
1) Fear of Retaliation
2) Lack of Comprehensive Legal Protections
3) Limited Access to Compensation and Restitution
4) Psychological and Social Impact
5) Insufficient Law Enforcement and Institutional Support
6) Difficulty in Identifying and Reaching Victims
7) Weak International and Cross-Border Cooperation
This paper explores the existing legal protections for victims of organized crime in Iran and highlights the gaps that leave victims vulnerable to further harm. A comparative analysis with international best practices, including the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, reveals the need for more robust legal measures. Findings indicate that while some protections exist, such as financial restitution and legal representation, their implementation is often inconsistent, and many victims hesitate to report crimes due to fear of retaliation.
To enhance victim support, this study recommends legislative reforms that include the establishment of specialized victim support units, stronger enforcement of compensation laws, and improved collaboration between law enforcement and social services. Implementing these measures would help ensure the safety, recovery, and empowerment of victims, ultimately strengthening the fight against organized crime in Iran.
Keywords: Victim support, organized crime, Iranian legal system, victim compensation, legal protection.

Author

• Neusha Ghahremani afshar, assistant professor in Department of law,Islamic Azad university ,Urmia branch,urmia,Iran