UN Human Rights Council 43: interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran
International Ambassador for Human Rights, Rita French, delivers UK statement for the Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Madam President,
The United Kingdom remains deeply concerned by the human rights situation in Iran. In November 2019, we witnessed the most deadly crackdown against internal unrest for decades, alongside an unprecedented near-total shutdown of the internet. Foreign-based media outlets reporting on the unrest received threats to their staff and relatives in Iran, and had assets frozen in retaliation.
The UK remains concerned about the persecution and discrimination of religious minorities in Iran, particularly towards Baha’is and Christian converts. We have grave concerns about the deterioration of freedom of expression. Legitimate organisations, such as the British Council, continue to face false accusations.
Iran remains a prolific user of the death penalty, including against juvenile offenders, which runs contrary to its international treaty obligations. We share the Special Rapporteur’s concern about unfair trials, ongoing arbitrary detention, and mistreatment of detainees, especially dual nationals. We welcome the temporary release of 54,000 detainees following the COVID-19 outbreak, and urge the Iranian authorities to ensure all detainees are afforded suitable healthcare and a transparent judicial process.
Mr Rehman,
What steps could Iran take to ensure religious minorities do not face discrimination as a result of the new identification card process?
Thank you.