Statement by Robert Wood, Deputy Spokesman, UN Calls on Iran to Address Serious Human Rights Violations

Robert Wood
Deputy  Spokesman 

Washington, DC

November 20, 2009

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

For Immediate Release                                                                                                                     November 20, 2009

Statement by Robert Wood, Deputy Spokesman

UN Calls on Iran to Address Serious Human Rights Violations

The United States welcomes the resolution passed today by the United Nations calling upon the Government of Iran to respect its human rights obligations fully. In addition to longstanding concerns about the human rights situation in Iran, the resolution expresses deep concern about the brutal response of Iranian authorities to peaceful demonstrations in the wake of the June 12 election. It calls on the Government of Iran to abolish torture and arbitrary imprisonment, as well as any executions, including stoning, carried out without due process of law. The resolution also calls on Iran to cooperate fully with and admit entry to the UN Special Rapporteur on torture or other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, and the Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance

This resolution demonstrates that the international community is deeply concerned over the deteriorating human rights situation in Iran and the government’s failure to uphold its obligations under its own constitution and international human rights law. Those in Iran who are trying to exercise their universal rights should know that the world continues to bear witness and their voices are being heard.

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