Lawyers should not be charged with the same crimes as their clients. Trials related to political charges are not in accordance with human rights.

Contrary to what certain governments say, human rights are universal. Arbitrary detention, torture and discrimination hurt the human dignity of anybody, whatever his or her country of origin, religion, descent, or any other ground.

We shouldn't just consider the desire of government to do what it wants to do. We should always consider the resistance of people. The culture of Iranian people doesn't let the government drag people into deep trouble or backlash. Maybe government wants it, but the culture doesn't let it go on.

I have never been convinced throughout my life that one needs to be imitating others. I even tell my daughters not to look at me as a model.

Sixty-three percent of our university students are female. But you still see violations of women's rights in Iran. A Muslim man can have up to four wives. He can divorce his wife without offering any reason, while it is quite difficult for a woman to get a divorce.

There is no "true Islam," just different interpretations.

Human rights is a universal standard. It is a component of every religion and every civilization.