UNGA Third Committee

Special Rapporteur Interactive dialogue on Iran

National Statement delivered on 25 October 2021

Australia commends the work of the Special Rapporteur to highlight the situation of human rights in Iran.

We share the Special Rapporteur’s serious concern with the overall situation of human rights in Iran, and reports that no meaningful efforts have been made by Iran to improve compliance with international human rights law.

Australia is deeply troubled by continued executions in Iran, including of juvenile offenders, and notes that Iran continues to carry out the death penalty at one of the highest rates in the world. We urge Iran to impose a moratorium on the death penalty.

Australia is concerned that LGBTI persons continue to face human rights violations. We strongly urge Iran to end the discrimination and intimidation of ethnic and religious minorities, and to protect the rights of all individuals.

Australia is concerned that Iranian women and girls continue to face significant discrimination. We note Iranian authorities continue to criminally prosecute and harass women and men who advocate for the rights of women. We remain concerned that Iran has not ratified the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women.

We are troubled by reports of the targeting of human rights defenders and lawyers, and their relatives. Australia calls on Iran to uphold international standards, including fair trials and due process.

Australia asks the Special Rapporteur: what further active measures can Iran take to protect the rights of women and girls?

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