The UN Human Rights Council session revealed serious violations of human rights in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela. Reports detail state repression, arbitrary detentions, and the absence of judicial accountability, particularly in relation to the aftermath of protests in these countries. The need for international intervention and support for victims is critical.
During the recent session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, reports highlighted serious human rights violations in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela, according to independent experts. These experts underscored the ongoing repression in Iran, particularly following the protests ignited by the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.
Sara Hossein, chair of the Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, detailed how peaceful protests led to atrocious outcomes, where children were targeted by law enforcement, resulting in fatalities and severe injuries. Additionally, detainees reportedly faced horrific treatment, including torture and rape, indicating a grave humanitarian crisis.
Hossein stated, “For two years, Iran has refused to adequately acknowledge the demands for equality and justice that fuelled the protests in 2022.” She expressed deep concerns regarding the state-led suppression of basic freedoms and the harassment of victims and their families.
Shaheen Ali, another member of the Fact-Finding Mission, emphasized that victims lack trust in Iran’s judicial system to deliver justice and appropriate reparations, asserting the necessity for accountability measures to be pursued externally.
The report also focused on Syria, where Paulo Pinheiro, head of the Commission of Inquiry, advocated for uncovering the fates of the thousands who have disappeared due to the actions of the Assad regime. He noted some willingness from new authorities to cooperate but cautioned that Syria’s humanitarian situation remains dire.
Pinheiro stated that the revelation of missing persons’ fates demands a collective effort, involving technical support from human rights entities and Syrian civil society. He offered his team’s assistance in gathering and preserving evidence crucial for this initiative.
Marta Valiñas, chair of the Fact-Finding Mission on Venezuela, highlighted an array of human rights violations, including political repression and arbitrary arrests. Concerns arose regarding the 2024 presidential election process, which lack transparency as the National Electoral Council did not disclose crucial data.
Valiñas noted credible reports of predetermined electoral outcomes and highlighted a surge in arbitrary detentions ahead of the presidential inauguration scheduled for January 10, 2025. The investigation also confirmed the military’s aggression against protesters, resulting in several fatalities.
Moreover, the conditions of detainees raised alarms, as multiple deaths attributed to “health complications” occurred, with allegations of brutal treatment during interrogations. The Venezuelan Government, however, rejected these conclusions, asserting that they were politically motivated and devoid of scientific validity.
The reports presented during the UN Human Rights Council sessions underscore alarming human rights violations in Iran, Syria, and Venezuela. Efforts to address these issues highlight systemic repression, arbitrary detentions, and a lack of accountability. The international community’s consistent scrutiny is essential for supporting victims and facilitating justice in these nations.
Original Source: news.un.org
