In a recent interview, Dr. Hesamuddin Boroumand, an Iranian human rights expert, voiced concerns regarding the political motivations behind the UN’s human rights interventions in Iran. He critiqued the UN’s Special Rapporteur and fact-finding missions, arguing that they follow a biased Western agenda rather than legitimate human rights concerns. The extension of the Special Rapporteur’s mandate, he claims, serves merely to perpetuate pressure on Iran, detracting from its genuine human rights efforts through avenues like the Universal Periodic Review.
Dr. Boroumand argues that the current Special Rapporteur, Mai Sato, emphasises capital punishment without recognising critical distinctions, such as between execution and “qisas” (retributive justice). This, he believes, perpetuates a distorted narrative that paints Iran as turbulent and violent while neglecting the rationale behind its legal measures against crime. He criticises this portrayal as an unfair condemnation of Iran for lawful actions aimed at public safety.
Sato’s appointment represents a clear shift in the UN’s approach, as she is not from a Muslim background like her predecessors, suggesting a departure from previous guidelines. Dr. Boroumand notes that her representation underlines a narrative aimed at amplifying a perceived women’s rights crisis, thus furthering an agenda that serves Western powers’ interests over Iran’s traditional values.
The expert highlights concerns about the fact-finding mission’s claims of a “climate of fear” in Iran. Initiated after the 2022 unrest, he views it as a politically motivated undertaking rather than a sincere human rights investigation. He underscores the hypocrisy of Western nations, which have remained silent on their own human rights abuses, particularly in Gaza, while simultaneously criticizing Iran.
To counter these accusations, Dr. Boroumand advocates for Iran’s proactive stance on human rights. He stresses the importance of establishing a robust global narrative that champions the oppressed and challenges the biased Western framing of human rights, suggesting that Iran’s foreign affairs and human rights institutions need to collaborate on effective strategies.
Dr. Hesamuddin Boroumand critiques the UN’s human rights efforts in Iran as politically motivated and biased. He argues that the renewal of the Special Rapporteur’s mandate is designed to maintain pressure on Iran while misrepresenting its legal frameworks. He calls for a proactive Iranian response to human rights accusations, aiming to shift the narrative in international forums.
Dr. Boroumand’s insights shed light on the intertwined nature of politics and human rights narratives at the UN concerning Iran. He posits that Western powers employ such narratives to undermine Iran’s governance and deflect from their own actions. By rejecting passive responses and proposing proactive measures, Iran can redefine its human rights image globally while counteracting biased portrayals.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
