12/9/2009 http://www. unhchr.ch/huricane/hurica...
UNITED NATIONS
Press Release
UN HUMAN RIGHTS CHIEF CONCERNED ABOUT
MANNER OF ARRESTS, AND POSSIBLE USE OF
EXCESSIVE FORCE IN IRAN
19 June 2009
GENEVA — The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Navi Pillay, said
Friday she is concerned about reports of an increasing number of arrests, which
may not be in conformity with the law, and the possible illegal use of excessive
force and acts of violence by some militia members in the aftermath of the
recent presidential elections held in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
“The legal basis of the arrests that have been taking place, especially those of
human rights defenders and political activists, is not clear,” Ms. Pillay said.
“What are the grounds for the arrests? Have proper warrants been issued in
accordance with Iranian law? Why have some of those who have been arrested
been denied access to lawyers and members oftheirfamilies? And why is the
whereabouts of others unknown? These are all troubling questions, and I urge
the Iranian authorities to ensure that due process is followed, since to do
otherwise may fan the feelings of injustice.”
The High Commissioner noted that freedom of expression and freedom of
assembly were fundamental human rights, and commended the largely peaceful
and dignified conduct of the huge demonstrations that have been taking place in
the Iranian capital, Teheran.
Ms. Pillay expressed particular concern about reported acts of violence by
members of the Basij militia, which may also be in contravention of international
and Iranian national law. “I strongly urge the authorities to ensure that official and
semi-official forces act strictly in accordance with the law,” she said. “It is the
responsibility of the government to ensure that militia members and regular law
enforcement agencies do not resort to illegal acts of violence. If they are
perceived to be acting outside the law, it could provoke a serious deterioration
in the security situation, which would be a great tragedy and is in nobody's
interests.”
The High Commissioner reminded the Iranian authorities of their international
obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which
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12/9/2009 http://www. unhchr.ch/huricane/hurica
states that ‘no one shall be subjected to arbitrary arrest or detention' (Article 9),
‘everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression' (Article 19), and ‘the
right of peaceful assembly shall be recognized' (Article 21).
For more information, call OHCHR Spokesperson Rupert Colville at + 41 22
917 9767
For use of inform ation media; not an official record
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