In an appeal to the UN Human Rights Council, Narges Mohammadi, a prominent political prisoner and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has called for sustained efforts in addressing human rights abuses in Iran.
Mohammadi's message emphasized the urgent need for international pressure on the Iranian regime, notorious for its violations of fundamental rights and perpetration of crimes against humanity.
Mohammadi, speaking from her incarceration, highlighted the nature of the Iranian regime's actions over the past four and a half decades. She underscored the importance of continued scrutiny by international bodies such as the UN fact-finding mission and the Special Rapporteur on Human Rights to reveal the multifaceted dimensions of oppression and gender apartheid perpetrated by the regime.
Formed by the UN Human Rights Council in November 2022 in the wake of widespread protests under the banner of Woman, Life, Freedom that swept across Iran, the fact-finding mission focuses primarily on investigating the nationwide protests that occurred from 2022 to 2023. Despite repeated appeals for cooperation, the mission's experts have expressed disappointment at the Iranian authorities' failure to provide substantial information.
"The despotic religious regime, which violates human rights and commits crimes against humanity, must be systematically and comprehensively pressured by the United Nations and human rights institutions worldwide," Mohammadi declared.
Her plea comes amidst ongoing protests and activism within Iran, including the Women, Life, Freedom movement, which has galvanized public outcry against the regime's repressive tactics. Mohammadi's call resonates with the growing chorus of voices demanding accountability and justice for victims of state-sponsored violence and discrimination.
As Mohammadi continues to endure persecution for her advocacy, her words serve as a reminder of the imperative to stand in solidarity with those fighting for democracy and human rights in Iran.
