By Armita Rohani
Source: The New York Times
Iran marks the first time a country has been removed from the U.N. women’s body after the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) dismissed them from the Commission on the Status of Women. 29 members voted in favor for such expulsion, while 8 states rejected and 16 abstained. Of these eight were some of Iran’s political and economic allies, as they condemned the fact that the decision was based on politics rather than their behavior towards women. Iran’s government has commented that the decision is unruly and an “illegal request” as mass protests continue. A representative from Iran’s UN delegation responded that “my delegation condemns any politicization of women’s rights and rejects all accusations made in particular by US and certain EU members.”
Iran is irresponsibly reacting to this decision, blaming American relations instead of the violence and massacre they have directed towards Iranian women. Considering the U.S.-led effort and decades of hostility, it is no surprise this accusation was made. Since the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, millions of Iranians have flooded the streets protesting her murder. Thousands have been killed and tortured under this regime; this movement is a significant representation of international and UN support for Iranian women. Thomas-Greenfield, a U.S. representative ambassador, added that, “The Commision is the premier UN body for promoting gender equality and empowering women. It cannot do its important work if it is being undermined within. Iran’s membership at this moment is an ugly stain on the Commission’s credibility.” Iran should not be in an organization they mock and are a hypocrisy of their values and mission. This decision establishes where Iran stands internationally for their violence, as well as their allies.
