Tom Hayes
Question:87 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the human rights situation in Iran; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10003/04]
View answerWednesday, 31 March 2004
Questions (104)
Written answers
I regret that overall there has been little improvement in the human rights situation in Iran. Although some limited positive measures have been adopted in certain areas, violations of human rights continue to be widespread. These include arbitrary detention, disappearances following arrest, and torture, as well as the continuing practice of public executions. The de facto moratorium on amputations has not been respected. Members of the Baha’i faith, in particular, continue to suffer discrimination and violations of their rights.
There is an on-going pattern of closure of newspapers, arrests and interrogation of journalists and blocking of pro-reform websites. The recent interference in the electoral process represents a major setback for democracy and a general trend toward even more restrictions on the exercise of political rights and freedoms. In addition, the fourth round of the EU-Iran human rights dialogue has not taken place due to Iran's failure to confirm the dates agreed.