Following the tragic death of Mahsa (Jina) Amini, who was arrested by Iranian authorities because of how she was dressed, thousands of young and brave Iranians have taken to the streets to demand respect for their human rights, including something most women in the world take for granted: To wear what you want. To express your opinion.
The uprising we have seen in response seems to be more than just about the hijab. It is clear that many Iranians will no longer accept the oppression of women, or the authorities’ brutality.
Norway fully supports the peaceful demonstrators in their demand for the full respect for their human rights. We condemn the use of violence against peaceful demonstrators, and echo the Secretary-General in his call for a prompt, impartial and effective investigation of Mahsa Amini’s death.
While condemning the regime’s brutality, we also must demand that Iran respects and implements its human rights obligations. This we must do both in direct talks, and through the UN system.
We are deeply concerned about the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran.
We call on the Iranian regime to stop suppressing the right of peaceful assembly, and the freedom of association and expression. We are deeply alarmed by the measures undertaken by Iran to restrict access to the Internet. This is limiting the ability of journalists, human rights defenders, and others, to report on human rights violations.
And we remain concerned by the situation for LGBTI-persons and the ongoing prosecution and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. Authorities have a responsibility to promote and protect the human rights of all persons.
Iran is currently member of the UN’s Commission on the Status of Women. Iran has a responsibility to improve the situation of women, not only in Iran, but globally. Iran must show that it is able and willing to take that responsibility seriously.
Norway will continue to listen to the voices of the Iranian people. We will do our best to support them in their tireless efforts to have their human rights ensured and respected.