18 December 2009

U.N. Calls on Iran to Address Serious Human Rights Violations

U.S. welcomes resolution, calls on Iran to respect human rights obligations

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
December 18, 2009

STATEMENT BY ROBERT WOOD, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN

UN Again Calls on Iran to Address Serious Human Rights Violations

The United States welcomes the United Nations’ final passage of the resolution calling upon the Government of Iran to respect its human rights obligations fully.  In passing this resolution, the international community has demonstrated once again its deep concern about the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran and the government’s failure to uphold its obligations under its own constitution and international human rights law.

The resolution, first adopted last month by the UN Third Committee, expresses deep concern over the brutal response of Iranian authorities to peaceful demonstrations in the wake of the June 12 election.  It calls on the Government of Iran to abolish torture and arbitrary imprisonment, as well as any executions carried out without due process of law.  Furthermore, it calls for the end of execution of minors, as well as the use of stoning as a means of execution.  The resolution also calls on Iran to release political prisoners, including those detained following the June election.  Finally, the resolution calls on Iran to cooperate fully with and admit entry to the UN Special Rapporteur on torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, and the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance.

Those in Iran who are trying to exercise their universal rights should know that their voices are being heard.