Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr Vice-President,
New Zealand thanks the Fact-Finding Mission for its oral update. We reiterate our strong support for the mission’s establishment which was a tangible step towards supporting all Iranians, especially the brave Iranian women and girls who have been loudly calling for their rights to be respected.
New Zealand recalls the FFM’s 19 May statement expressing its deep alarm and profound concern at the continued executions of protesters in Iran. Tragically, Iranian authorities have continued to conduct many further executions, including of protesters. New Zealand strongly opposes the death penalty in all cases, and Iran should immediately end this practise.
New Zealand is deeply disappointed that the Fact-Finding Mission has not been permitted to enter Iran. A call for full cooperation with the mission by Iran, including providing unhindered access without delay and all information necessary, was a key element of Resolution S35/1. We continue to urge Iran to respect the mandate granted to the Mission by this Council, including by granting its members access to the country.
We look forward to the provision of the Fact-Finding Mission’s comprehensive report, and the interactive dialogue on that report at the Human Rights Council in March next year. That report will be a vital contribution to ensuring accountability for human rights violations, in line with Iran’s international obligations.
Thank you.