Foreign and Commonwealth Office – 2019 Press Release on the Islamic Republic of Iran

Below is a press release issued by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office on 08/11/2019.

Statement by Miriam Shearman, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, during Iran’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR).

Mr President,

The United Kingdom appreciates Iran’s engagement with the UPR.

We remain concerned by discrimination against persons belonging to minority religious groups, particularly the Baha’i and Christians.

We remain deeply concerned by Iran’s failure to uphold international legal obligations, and its arbitrary detention of citizens and dual nationals arrested on unclear charges, denied due process and subject to mistreatment.

We recommend that Iran:

Immediately demonstrates that all detainees in prison are neither tortured nor subject to cruel or inhumane treatment or punishment.

Promptly allows an impartial trial process that weighs evidence and ensures defendants, and lawyers of their choosing, can have timely access to the charges and evidence.

Investigates sexual exploitation of children aged under 18, including through forced, early and temporary marriage, and develop a national plan to protect at risk children.

Thank you.