PRESS RELEASE : UN HRC53 – Statement on Independent Fact-Finding Mission on Iran [July 2023]

The press release issued by the Foreign Office on 5 July 2023.

Interactive Dialogue with the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Islamic Republic of Iran. Delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador Rita French.

Thank you to the Fact-Finding Mission for their valuable update.

Over 500 people were killed during Iran’s brutal crackdown last year, following the killing of Mahsa Amini.

The use of the death penalty has continued unabated this year. Reports of unfair trials and torture in Iranian prisons… media and internet censorship… restrictions on freedoms of speech, expression, religion, and belief. Anything to stifle dissent.

Mr President,

Last November’s Special Session of this Council sent a clear signal that the world was watching and that we would not be a silent witness to the brutal repression of the Iranian people. To the plight of women and girls.

Yet, seven months later they continue to live in fear. Of violence. Of oppression. Still unable to enjoy some of their most basic human rights.

It is time for the government of Iran to listen. It is time for the perpetrators of these violations to be held to account. It is time for justice for the Iranian people. And for the women and girls of Iran, it’s time for freedom.

Members of the FFM can you confirm your report will cover the important issue of the targeting and persecution of journalists, their sources, and families, for their reporting on the protests?

Thank you Mr Vice President.