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 Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights Defenders

New York, 14 October 2021

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

Mr. Chair,

Pursuant to national and cultural obligations assigned thereto, the Islamic Republic of Iran deeply believes in supporting human rights and preparing a proper and fair ground for human rights defenders, operating within constitutions. Having been envisaged in the Charter of Citizens’ Rights, this could facilitate governments’ promotion and protection of human rights in an absolutely non-discriminatory manner.

Lawyers and human rights activists in Iran discharge their professional responsibilities without let or hindrance. It, however, goes without saying that committing any illegal acts can – under no circumstances whatsoever – negate judicial responsibilities thereof. Bestowing the title of human rights defender upon those who, irrespective of their anti-social behavior, shut their eyes to the very fundamental norms of society and break the law constitutes an insult to true human rights defenders.

An old-age phenomenon that has been ravaging the Middle East in recent years, terrorism has deprived nations of true democracy and proved to be a seemingly insurmountable obstacle in the path of strengthening civil society; therefore, counter-terrorism efforts must be redoubled. Those who stand up against terrorists and exhaust all endeavours to secure freedom and reinforce civil society should be considered as human rights defenders. Unfortunately, the international community has turned a blind eye to the U.S. assassination of General Soleimani who was, and will ever remain, a transregional hero and one of the greatest human rights defenders of all time, proof of which is his unflinching support to protection of dignity and rights of all people.

The term “Human Rights Defenders” sounds very general. It contains broad meanings, many of which do not have any clear link thereto. Introducing a crystal-clear definition of “Human Rights Defenders” could prevent anyone from exploiting this title and conducting false flag operations in any country. The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran is of the view that an internationally agreed definition of this term would help guarantee the efforts of true human rights defenders across the world.

I thank you.