On March 9, 2021, the issue of human right violations in Iran was discussed in the United Nations Human Rights Council. Dr. Illir Nezaj from the Albanian Embassy in Geneva representing Albania, expressed the his countrie’s concern about the human rights violations in Iran. He also made remarks in response the Iranian regime’s allegations that Albania is hosting terrorists. The same allegations against Albania is also expressed the Iranian regime’s agents in Albania.
Madame President,
Albania welcomes rapporteur Rahman for his report on the human rights situation in Iran, and supports his mandate.
Albania shares the concerns of the rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran which is marked by violence, intimidation, detention, torture and systematic murder of those who dare to oppose regime, specifically discrimination against ethnic, religious and sexual minorities remains very troubling in Iran.
Albania opposes the death penalty in all circumstances, and remains deeply concerned about high level of executions, including of children, in Iran, in violation of international law.
In addition, the report describes a deplorable situation regarding the conditions of detention in Iran,
We also share the deep concern of the rapporteur by the persistent discrimination against women and girls in the public and private life, in particular with regard to the early and forced marriages.
Finally, to respond to Iran on why Albania is hosing members of the Iranian People’s Mojahedin Organization PMOI: The positions of the Albanian government, if of a sovereign country, which aim to protect the rights of the people wherever they are violated. Albania does not host any terrorists but is part of a big international coalition that fights terrorist groups wherever they appear and operate. Albania has accepted the PMOI in full compliance with Albanian law and international law, on a humanitarian basis and this should not be construed as an action threatening targeting a specific country, including Iran.
