UN Human Rights Council 49: UK statement for the interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran

Mr. President,

The United Kingdom thanks the Special Rapporteur for his work and his most recent report.

As set out in this latest report, it is clear that the Government of Iran has continued to violate human rights, including the rights of human rights defenders, persons from marginalised minorities, lawyers, dual and foreign nationals, activists and journalists. Iran reportedly executed over 275 people in 2021. This includes juvenile offenders. Excessive use of violence and lethal force against peaceful protestors continued.

Last night, British Nationals Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and Anoosheh Ashoori arrived in the UK following years of unfair detention by the Government of Iran and Morad Tahbaz is out of prison. We continue to work closely with others, including those whose nationals are detained in Iran and urge Iran to end its practice of unfair detention.

Women do not enjoy the same legal rights and privileges as men and continue to face discrimination in Iran. Tens of thousands of young girls continued to be married under the age of 15. Persecution of religious minorities continues unabated, particularly towards Christian converts and the Baha’is, who also face further land expropriation.

The UK continues to demand that Iran improve its human rights situation and we are committed to work with partners to help achieve this.

Special Rapporteur we ask what more can States do to hold Iran accountable and to ensure you are afforded the proper in-country access to allow fulfilment of your mandate?

Thank you.