Statement by
Mr. Ali Karimi Magham
Political Attaché
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran
Before the Third Committee, UNGA 76
On Item 74: “Promotion and Protection of Human Rights
The High Commissionaire for Human Rights”
New York, 13 October 2021
In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful.
Mr. Chair, Madam Commissioner,
We deeply believe that human rights should be seen as a common heritage of humanity, and it must be inclusive rather than exclusive. All human rights – civil, political, economic, social and cultural – are inter-linked and mutually reinforcing. Human rights must be treated in a fair and equal manner on the same footing with the same emphasis.
In spite of the fact that my country has been the target of a sustained disinformation and propaganda campaign, I would like to reiterate that the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran has continued its constructive cooperation with the United Nations human rights mechanisms, especially with the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights, and remains committed to promoting and protecting human rights both at national and international levels.
As a matter of profound regret, the Human Rights Council has distanced itself from its lofty objectives and turned into a racing field where certain States compete against one another to put pressure on other countries through weaponization of human rights.
Turning a blind eye to their own human rights problems, certain countries especially the United States – out of political purposes – continue to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries under the pretext of human rights in an attempt to impose their own values on others. This mere politicization of human rights seriously undermines the sovereignty and independence of other countries as well as international solidarity and cooperation, and causes persistent damage to the international efforts to promote and protect human rights.
The Islamic Republic of Iran calls on all nations to remain open and inclusive, respect the diversity of civilizations and the development paths independently chosen by countries, and refrain from imposing one’s own social system and model on others or creating division and confrontation.
I thank you.