UN Resolution on Violation of Human Rights, a Political Move

November 21, 1998 - 0:0
UNITED NATIONS, New York -- Iran on Wednesday rejected a resolution which was sponsored by the European Union and the United States, on violation of human rights in Iran and said it is against the existing realities in Iran. Iran's Representative at the United Nations Mostafa Alaei told the Third Committee of the United Nations General Assembly that the resolution is a political move which aims to put political interests above human rights considerations.

Addressing the Third Committee session before adopting the resolution, Alaei stressed that the government of the Islamic Republic including its Judiciary are doing their best, in line with the Islamic teachings and the ancient Iranian civilization, to promote national institutions for protection of human rights. He said that the government of Iran strives to promote basic freedoms, encourage people's political participation, upgrade status of women, institutionalize law and guarantee fair trials.

Alaei added that the resolution proposed by a group of countries against Iran is far from the realities of the Iranian society and ignorant of the recent positive developments in Iran. Furthermore, he stressed, the resolution is totally ignorant of the local mechanisms for protection and promotion of human rights in Iran, adding that it has unfairly neglected Iran's initiatives and efforts for promotion of the human rights.

Adoption or rejection of the resolution, will not affect Iran's determination to step up its continues efforts for advancement of human rights in Iran. Advancement of human rights is a sacred goal, but using it for political objectives is harmful, he said adding that ends should not justify the means. The resolution, adopted by the Third Committee, expressed concern over the alleged human rights violations in Iran. It was put forward by European countries, the U.S., Canada, the Zionist regime and Australia. The resolution which was passed by 63 votes in favor, 35 against and 60 abstentions, is to be approved next month by the 185-nation General Assembly. The UN General Assembly committee in its resolution also welcomed moves towards openness by the Iranian government.

The resolution welcomed a series of commitments by government of President Mohammad Khatami aimed at opening up Iranian society.