Statement by

Ms. Fatemeh Arab Bafrani

Second Secretary

Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations

Before the Third Committee of the 77th Session of the General Assembly

On Agenda Item 64: “Rights of Indigenous Peoples”

Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

New York, 12 October 2022

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful

Mr. Chair,

I thank Mr. Special Rapporteur for his briefing.

Iran Agrees with the Special Rapporteur that despite international commitments to protect the rights of indigenous people, their rights are still being violated. Their rights in case of access to land, health, education, IT, and freedom in practicing their own language and culture should be promoted and protected.

The Islamic Republic of Iran is appalled by systematic discrimination levied against Indigenous Populations in the United States, Canada, and including but not limited to, colonies of the UK. In particular, we are gravely concerned about reports about the Indian Act of Canada and its failure to recognize the status of future generations of indigenous people. Such legislations are emblematic of a longstanding policy of disenfranchisement toward the native populations.

These States are obliged to redouble their efforts to ensure the rights of their indigenous peoples, particularly indigenous women and girls.

My question to the Special Rapporteur is, how can we ensure the rights of indigenous peoples are protected and promoted in the countries that historically violate the rights of indigenous peoples?

Thank you.