Iran

Status: Political prisoner

A 28-year-old film studies student, Ahmad Batebi made international headlines in 1999 when a photograph of him holding a bloodied shirt belonging to a fellow student circulated on magazine covers around the world, most notably The Economist (the famous photograph is available below). Shortly thereafter, Mr. Batebi was arrested, charged with soiling the image of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and sentenced to death. His sentence was commuted to 15 and then 10 years in prison.

In March 2005, Mr. Batebi was allowed to leave prison for a medical leave. Though still in a sensitive medical condition, according to a letter written by his doctor, he was re-arrested under dubious circumstances on July 27, 2006. His whereabouts were unknown until August 12, when his family was informed of his new arrest. They have only been allowed to visit Mr. Batebi in prison three times.

Status: Released after serving time

A serial free speech offender, 28-year-old journalist and blogger Arash Sigarchi was found guilty on January 26, 2006 on charges of "insulting the Supreme Guide" and "propaganda against the regime."