DPR's Statement: UNGA 80 Initiative on Workstream 3

Iran's ambassador and deputy permanent representative has delivered a statement during an informal meeting of the plenary to hear a briefing by the Secretary-General on the initiative on Workstream 3. The full text of the statement is as follows:

 Statement by H.E. Mr. Gholamhossein Darzi

Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the UN

“Informal meeting of the plenary to hear a briefing by the Secretary-General on the UN80 Initiative on Workstream 3”

New York – 15 October 2025

 

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

 

Madam President,

Allow me to thank you for convening this meeting. We wish also to thank the Secretary-General for his efforts in preparing the first report under Workstream 3 of the UN80 Initiative.

We associate ourselves with the statement delivered by the representative of Iraq on behalf of G77 and China.

In general, my delegation underscores the need to draw lessons from the past reforms to avoid the recurrence of previous shortcomings. Moreover, we stress that all reforms must be carried out within an intergovernmental framework, in accordance with established procedures, through broad, inclusive, and transparent consultations, and through a Member State–driven process leading to the final decision by the General Assembly. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of protecting and promoting equitable geographical representation to ensure that the Organization effectively serves all people around the world.

In this regard we wish to express our preliminary viewpoints regarding the four pillars of work in this report.

On peace and security, new mechanisms including creation of centers of excellence should not add new bureaucracy, and any mergers must not weaken mandate delivery. Terms like ‘prevention,’ ‘early warning,’ and ‘anticipatory action’ need clearer distinction. Other line initiatives in this area should be taken into account.

On development, the independent identity, expertise, and institutional nature of specialized agencies, funds, and programmes must be preserved. Geopolitical tensions and unilateral coercive measures have disrupted medical supply chains and deepened health inequities, while the UN80 initiative’s focus on cost-efficiency may reduce support for countries with limited health capacities. UNAIDS remains important to achieving the goal of ending AIDS by 2030, and its proposed sunsetting by 2026 could undermine this global response.

On humanitarian issues, we welcome efforts to reduce bureaucracy. However, in clarifying roles to avoid duplication and strengthen impact, it is essential to consider the specific mandates, beneficiaries and field operations of relevant humanitarian organizations, ensuring that those in need are not adversely affected.

On human rights, we request further clarification on cross-pillar work, noting that more detailed information and analysis are required to ensure a comprehensive and informed assessment.