During the fifty-fourth regular session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, representatives from various countries strongly condemned the gross human rights violations taking place in Iran. The focus was particularly on the wave of executions and the oppressive treatment of women and girls.
The representative from the United Kingdom criticized the Iranian regime for its continued suppression of women and girls, highlighting the “Chastity and Hijab” bill as a perpetuation of this oppression. Belgium’s representative expressed concern over the use of violence by Iranian officials against human rights advocates and the ongoing discrimination against women and girls. They also highlighted the heavy sentences and use of the death penalty for protesters.
Finland’s representative emphasized that the Iranian regime has no justification for the death penalty, especially against those fighting for freedom. Sweden’s representative echoed these concerns, emphasizing the brutal suppression of protests, the increasing use of the death penalty, and arbitrary detentions in Iran. They called for the release of all Swedish and European citizens who have been arbitrarily detained.
The United States representative criticized the Iranian regime for responding to people’s desire for freedom with increased suppression. Norway’s representative expressed deep concern over attempts to control women and girls in Iran, particularly through legislation like the compulsory hijab bill.
The representative of Spain, speaking on behalf of the European Union, highlighted serious apprehensions about the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran. They mentioned increasing restrictions on freedom of thought, expression, civil liberties, and the rights of ethnic and religious minorities.
The Netherlands’ representative reiterated deep concern about severe suppression in Iran, particularly against women and minorities. They called on the Iranian regime to halt the suppression and allow access to special rapporteurs and truth-finding missions, emphasizing the importance of full cooperation.
The fifty-fourth session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, which started on September 11 and will continue until October 13, serves as a platform for countries to express their concerns and condemnations of the human rights violations taking place in Iran.
