For almost four years, I have fought for my father’s freedom. Now, we are at a critical moment: on March 14, 2025, Homayoun’s case will go to another appeal at a higher court in Greece, where we are fighting for his acquittal. In September 2024, his sentence was reduced from 18 years to 7 years and 4 months. After three long months of the appeal trial and three years behind bars, Homayoun was released on December 16th, 2024 but as a prisoner on probation.

Although he is no longer in jail, justice has not been served. Homayoun is still trapped in Thessaloniki, where he is forced to report to the police station every month for the next three years.

We are urgently seeking €6,500 to cover his legal and court fees. Your support can make a tangible difference in his fight for true freedom. Will you stand with us and help Homayoun’s journey towards justice?

HOMAYOUN'S STORY

My father, Homayoun Sabetara, was unjustly arrested in Greece and initially sentenced to 18 years in prison after a year of pretrial detention, falsely accused of being a smuggler. The only witness against him never appeared in court and could not be cross examined about his contradictory testimony.  Despite the lack of evidence, the judge chose to ignore these issues, condemning my father to a lengthy prison sentence.

In September 2024, his sentence was reduced to seven years, which allowed him to be released from prison early. However, he remains trapped in Thessaloniki, unable to leave or live freely. I have stood by my father’s side throughout this painful ordeal, launching the #FreeHomayoun campaign to fight for his freedom.

Now, on March 14, 2025, we have another chance to correct this injustice once and for all. This is our moment to fight for my father’s acquittal and his freedom.

Your support would mean the world to us and help bring us closer to the justice he deserves. Together, we can make a real difference.

WHY THIS APPEAL IS IMPORTANT

My father should never have been criminalised for entering Europe. Seeking asylum is a fundamental right and therefore legal in Europe. An asylum application can only be made in the country of arrival. But: For the majority of people on the move, there is no way to enter Europe legally. This also applies to Homayoun.

My father's case is representative of the cases of over 2,000 people in Greece alone who are systematically accused of allegedly "aiding and abetting illegal migration" and held in prisons.

My father was convicted in an unfair trial. It was characterised by numerous violations of the law, for example violation of Article 6 of the ECHR - his conviction was based on an absent witness.

We are sure that no higher European court will accept this judgement! This appeal is our next chance to clear his name. 

THE COST OF JUSTICE: €6,500 NEEDED

Justice is costly. We need to raise €6,500 by March 14 to cover court fees and legal expenses. With your support, we can ensure that Homayoun and I are not left alone to bear this burden.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

• Donate: Every contribution -big or small - helps us fight this final battle.
• Share: Spread the word by sharing this campaign on social media, with friends, and in your communities.
• Stay Engaged: Follow the #FreeHomayoun campaign for updates and events.

Can we raise the necessary funds before March 14?

Join us in this fight for justice. Donate now and help us #FreeHomayoun for good!

For more details, visit www.freehomayoun.org.