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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, DC – The National Iranian American Council (NIAC) welcomes this week’s passage by the Third Committee of the United Nations of a draft resolution on the human rights situation in Iran. NIAC reiterates its call for the Iranian government to comply with its human rights obligations, release all prisoners of conscience, and cooperate with the UN human rights monitor established earlier this year. NIAC also supports the UN resolution’s call for Iran to grant access to independent monitors for parliamentary elections being held early next year. Such a step can help protect rule of law and ensure the events of the 2009 election are not repeated. “Supporters of human rights should be heartened that this year’s Iran resolution was supported broadly and advanced by an overwhelming margin,” said NIAC Policy Director Jamal Abdi. “The UN’s actions this year on Iran’s human rights situation sends a clear message to Iranian authorities that the international community is united on this issue.” The resolution will be formally adopted by the UN in December and will be followed at next year’s meeting of the UN Human Rights Council where the Iran human rights monitor, Ahmed Shaheed, will present his first report. This could set up further action to press Iran on its human rights violations. “Multilateral efforts like this are the best means to address our serious concerns with Iran,” said Abdi. “This week’s efforts stand in stark contrast to the threats of military confrontation and untargeted sanctions that only undermine Iranian human rights defenders.” ### |
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