Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Assistant Professor of Criminal Law and Criminology, Roshdiyeh Institute of Higher Education, Tabriz, Iran.
2
MA in Criminal Law and Criminology, Farabi College, University of Tehran, Qom, Iran.
3
MA in Criminal Law and Criminology, Islamic Azad University of Tabriz.
Abstract
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) represent one of the most pressing modern threats to public health. Among these, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is globally prevalent, distinguished by its association with various malignancies, its highly contagious nature, and the difficulty of detecting asymptomatic carriers. These characteristics necessitate the design and implementation of comprehensive, efficient, and nationally coordinated preventive strategies. Adopting a descriptive-analytical methodology, this study addresses the social and legal challenges posed by the spread of STIs—focusing on HPV—and evaluates the capacity of both criminal and non-criminal preventive measures to control their proliferation within Iranian society. Findings indicate that the Iranian legal system suffers from significant legislative and executive lacunae regarding these viruses. Specifically, it lacks explicit criminalization of high-risk behaviors related to the intentional transmission of STIs, as well as clear policies and programs to counter their spread; a deficiency that severely undermines the effectiveness of control efforts. Conversely, comparative international experiences suggest that a combination of proportionate criminal sanctions, comprehensive sexual health education, public vaccination programs, and transparent media communication can be effective. Consequently, it is essential to formulate a multidimensional, integrated, and justice-oriented criminal policy that prioritizes awareness, empathy, and equal access to healthcare alongside law and order. A dual approach is proposed: Legal Prevention, achieved through transparent and proportionate criminalization aligned with the principles of criminal law; and Social Prevention, fostered through science-based education, public awareness campaigns, strategic media engagement, and nationwide vaccination programs. By drawing on the experiences of advanced legal systems and revising existing statutes, Iran’s criminal justice system can establish a suitable framework for coherent preventive strategies. The success of such policies hinges upon effective intersectoral cooperation among the health, education, and criminal justice systems.
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