39th special session of the human rights council to address the deteriorating human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Statement delivered by H.E. Minister of Foreign Affairs of Iceland, Ms. Þorgerður Katrín Gunnarsdóttir on behalf of group of countries.

23 January 2026

Mr. Vice-President, 

This statement is on behalf of North-Macedonia, Moldova, the United Kingdom, Germany and my country Iceland.

Once again, the people of Iran have taken to the streets to demand a better life for themselves and their loved ones.  

In doing so they are exercising their rights to freedom of expression, and freedom of peaceful assembly and of association – nothing more.  

Once again, the Iranian authorities have responded in a brutal and violent way, leaving thousand dead and many more injured and arbitrarily arrested.  

It is the obligation of states to uphold the human rights of their citizens, but when a government itself becomes the perpetrator of violations, it is our collective responsibility to act.  

This Council, and the world, cannot look away. Violence against peaceful protesters and mass killings must stop.

The Fact-Finding Mission is the only independent mechanism collecting and preserving evidence to ensure accountability. With the people of Iran being increasingly cut off from the outside world through internet and communication closures, this task is even more urgent.

We must stand firmly with the people of Iran. I therefore urge all Council Members to support the adoption of today’s resolution. 

We owe it to the brave people of Iran peacefully demanding dignity, justice and freedom. 

I thank you.