The UN General Assembly discussed Iran’s worsening human rights abuses, spotlighting a surge in executions and systemic discrimination against women and minorities. Special Rapporteur Mai Sato highlighted these issues, leading to strong condemnations from various nations, including the EU, US, and Norway. Calls for ending the death penalty and protecting citizens’ rights dominated the dialogue, emphasizing the need for accountability and urgent reforms in Iran.
During the 79th session of the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee, concerns over Iran’s human rights have been underscored by reports from Special Rapporteur Mai Sato. She highlighted alarming patterns of systemic abuses, discriminatory practices, and a troubling rise in executions under the current regime, drawing attention to how these issues disproportionately affect ethnic and religious minorities. “The solution to tension cannot simply be subjecting human rights to cultural and religious preferences,” Sato emphasized, advocating for universal respect for human rights. The European Union voiced profound concerns about ongoing human rights abuses in Iran, citing discrimination against women, girls, and minority groups. In a strong statement, they condemned all executions, particularly in cases involving minors and dissenters, while urging Iranian authorities to cease the criminalization of individuals exercising their rights. The Czech Republic echoed these sentiments, warning about the rising trend of death sentences against female activists. The United States representative condemned the Iranian regime for arbitrary arrests, torture, and violent repression of dissenters. They pointed to a pattern of human rights violations in the country, such as gender-based violence and unjust detentions, while also highlighting Tehran’s targeted actions against opposition figures abroad. Norway emphasized its opposition to the death penalty, calling for its abolishment and restoring justice and accountability in Iran’s justice system. Iceland praised the UN Special Rapporteur’s comprehensive approach to addressing human rights violations in Iran, advocating for urgent action to address the worsening situation. Meanwhile, Ukraine condemned Iran’s human rights abuses and linked them to international implications, urging the clerical regime to halt its support for Russia’s conflict while prioritizing its citizens’ welfare. Switzerland expressed alarm regarding the increasing number of executions—over 600 reported in 2024 alone—and appealed for restrictions on the death penalty. They called for the repeal of discriminatory laws affecting women and girls, reinforcing the need for collaboration with international human rights organizations. Australia voiced similar concerns, particularly about the application of the death penalty against vulnerable groups such as women, children, and political opponents, urging an end to executions altogether.
The article highlights the troubling human rights situation in Iran, especially concerning the significant increase in executions and the harsh treatment of women and minority groups. This discussion took place during the 79th session of the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee, where various countries expressed their outrage towards Iran’s pervasive human rights violations. The reports presented emphasize the need for international attention and action to safeguard fundamental human rights in Iran.
Overall, multiple countries have condemned Iran’s escalating human rights violations, focusing particularly on the rise in executions and the treatment of women and minorities. The discussions during the UN session reflect a growing consensus on the need for action to uphold human rights in Iran, with calls for the abolition of the death penalty and respect for universal rights. The international community is urged to respond decisively to these alarming trends.
Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org
