Campaign: Facebook used to help free jailed physicians

Written by Hamid on July 29, 2008 – 9:29 pm -

Description:Physician brothers Kamira and Arash Alaie, who have been recognized internationally for their activities in the development of HIV/AIDS programs and services in Iran and throughout the Middle East, are being held in prison by the Iranian authorities. According to (reports) received from Teheran, the doctors were taken to an undisclosed location sometime in late June. The reason for their detention is unknown. While many Iranian bloggers have been silent so far on this case, Boston University doctoral candidate and Kamiar’s friend Clint Trout launched a campaign to inform the world about jailed duo.

Tools: Facebook

How the tool is used: Trout has created a support club for the brothers in Facebook, where nearly 300 people have became members. Viewers can find a list of news reports about the Alaie brothers and are asked to write to Iranian Health Minister and Iranian ambassadors in their own countries about their concerns.

Trout has also published a photo of two brothers, as can be seen above, on his Facebook page.

Outcome:If organizations, the general public and the media highlighted this case, the Iranian government would have no choice but to pay attention. In the past several former political prisoners and their supporters have gained the attention for their cases this way with positive results.


Posted in Mid-East & N. Africa, Regions, Social Networks |


4 Responses to “Campaign: Facebook used to help free jailed physicians”

  1. By sokari on Jul 30, 2008 | Reply

    I have often wondered how effective Facebook groups and causes really are. People join causes and groups by clicking on “join” but then what - how do these groups/causes really work towards their stated aim?

  2. By Talia on Jul 30, 2008 | Reply

    Based on my experience, it is really up to the person(s) who start up a Facebook group, or any other online social networking tool, to retain member interest by keeping them informed about the cause they are promoting. Some of the most effective Facebook groups are the ones that engage and educate their audience on why they should take action.

    Possibly the best example of the success of Facebook activism so far is the high number of young people who have taken an interest in the Obama campaign. However, young voters don’t statistically vote in high numbers in US elections. On November 5, the day after the elections, the world will know how effective Facebook activism really is.

  3. By Mary on Jul 30, 2008 | Reply

    The answer to your question - and many others concerning Facebook activism - can be found in our guide: A DigiActive Introduction to Facebook Activism. You can download it here: http://www.digiactive.org/wp-content/uploads/digiactive_facebook_activism.pdf

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  2. Aug 4, 2008: Global Voices Online » Iran: International Campaign to Support Jailed Physicians

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