55th session of the Human Rights Council (February 26 to April 5, 2024)
Oral statement from the Zagros Center for Human Rights
Item 3: General debate on the promotion and protection of all human, civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights, including the right to development
March 14, 2024
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I would like to draw your attention to the precarious situation of minorities in several countries in the Middle East, specifically Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey.
In Iraq, a recent ruling by the Federal Supreme Court has been issued to abolish quotas for minorities in the Parliament of the Kurdistan Federal Region, raising deep concerns. This measure risks exacerbating the marginalization of minority voices, jeopardizing their political participation and fundamental rights.
Regarding Syria, Iran, and Turkey, the fundamental rights of Kurds continue to be violated. They face systemic discrimination in various aspects of their daily lives, thereby compromising their civil, political, and economic participation.
In Iran, members of the Baha’i and Yarsan minorities still endure persecution and discrimination due to their faith. Their religious, cultural, and social rights are regularly violated, and they are often deprived of access to education, employment, and other essential public services.
It is crucial for the international community to strengthen its efforts to ensure respect for the human rights of all minorities in the region. The concerned governments must be held accountable for their obligations under international law and human rights standards.
Thank you