Ministry Statements & Speeches:
Mr President,
Aotearoa New Zealand remains gravely concerned and dismayed with the continued violence and deteriorating human rights situation in Iran.
We stand with the people of Iran engaging in peaceful protest and advocating for their fundamental human rights. We reiterate calls for independent investigations into the death of Mahsa Amini, and the Iranian authorities’ violent and excessive use of force against protesters. The use of violence against women, girls or any other members of Iranian society, is unacceptable and must end immediately.
We are deeply concerned that Iranian courts have handed down death penalty sentences to protestors. We strongly support the Special Rapporteur’s recommendations that Iran impose an immediate moratorium on executions, commute all death sentences, and urgently amend legislation to prohibit the execution of those under 18.
As an early co-sponsor of today’s resolution, Aotearoa New Zealand strongly supports the establishment of an independent fact-finding mission to thoroughly and independently investigate alleged human rights violations in Iran, especially with respect to women and children. The creation of a fact-finding mission is a tangible step to support Iranians from all walks of life, especially the brave women and girls of Iran.
Thank you.