In September 2011, six independent filmmakers were arrested in Iran for purportedly working for the BBC. Their charges, including treason and espionage, underscore other recent incidents of artists imprisoned in this country, including the on-going house arrest of director Jafar Panahi and the prior arrest of actress Marzieh Vafamehr. Two filmmakers have been released, but none were given access to lawyers, their families, or due process.

Keeping with our belief in advocating on behalf of documentary filmmakers everywhere, the International Documentary Association stands united with other entertainment industry organizations, including the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, in support of these filmmakers’ rights as artists.

Below is our official statement:

The International Documentary Association believes that the power and artistry of film is vital to cultures and societies globally, and we fiercely defend the rights of filmmakers and artists everywhere to practice their art and to seek and reveal truth in their work, however provocative that truth may be.

We strenuously uphold the principles of free speech and freedom from censorship. The expression of truth should never be silenced by the exercise of power by a State or system of authority that may feel threatened by the content of the artistic or journalistic work–both essential elements of democracy.

Together with our entire international community of documentary filmmakers, The International Documentary Association calls for the release and fair treatment of Iranian filmmakers, artists, and actors. These artists, and other filmmakers, actors and journalists like them, must be immediately released and allowed to continue their artistic and journalistic work without restriction or penalty. We stand united with them, as do artists across the globe. And we will continue to fight for their fundamental human right of self-expression.

Read statements from other organizations from the entertainment community who support their release.