HRC52 - NB8 statement - SR on Islamic Republic of Iran

Item 4: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Islamic Republic of Iran

Statement by Estonia on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries

20 March 2023

Mr. President,

I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic countries.

We would like to thank the Special Rapporteur for his report.

For months, the brave people of Iran, especially women and girls, have faced extreme and unjustified violence and crackdown by the Iranian authorities for exercising their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.

We strongly condemn the use of violence, harassment and detentions against peaceful protesters. Perpetrators of torture, killings and violence, including sexual and gender-based violence, must be held accountable. We urge Iran to release all persons who were imprisoned or detained for exercising their right to peacefully protest. We strongly oppose the death penalty at all times and in all circumstances and call on the Iranian authorities to impose an immediate moratorium on executions.

We are also concerned about press freedom and safety of journalists in Iran. Journalists and media workers are threatened, harassed and detained. Families of Iranians working for foreign media outlets are intimidated and persecuted. We call on Iran to release all arbitrarily detained, including journalist, media workers and their family members and to ensure freedom of opinion and expression and access to information, both online and offline.

Finally, we urge Iran to fully cooperate with the Special Rapporteur, including by granting full and unhindered access to the country.

Mr. Special Rapporteur,

What more can the international community do to support the people of Iran fighting for their human rights?

Thank you.