19 October 2011, New York; The Third Committee of the United Nations heard separate reports from Special Rapporteurs on the Human Rights situations in Iran, Myanmar, and the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK). Maldives has been a staunch advocate for international human rights and has made the promotion of human rights the main focus of its foreign policy goals. As such, Maldives called on the three countries to engage with the international community and advance the basic human rights for their citizens.
Former Foreign Minister of Maldives, Dr. Ahmed Shaheed, delivered the report on Iran in his role as Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran. He stressed the need for cooperation by the mandate countries in order to provide a complete picture of their human rights situations. Expressing deep concern over the continued human rights abuses found within these countries, including the use of capital punishment on juveniles in Iran, the continued detention of political prisoners in Myanmar, and trafficking and exploitation of refugees in DPRK, Maldives also called on them to fully cooperate with the international community and the Special Rapporteurs.
In addition, however, Maldives expressed optimism for the human rights situations within Iran, Myranmar, and DPRK, referencing its own recent transition and current position as a respected member of the United Nations Human Rights Council. Finally, Maldives offered its assistance to the three countries based on its own experiences, if they were willing to engage with the international community.
Ms. Thilmeeza Hussain, Deputy Permanent Representative to the Permanent Mission to the United Nations delivered the statement on Iran; Ms. Rishfa Rasheed, Assistant Director at the Foreign Ministry, spoke on Myanmar; and Mr. Javed Faizal, Second Secretary to the Permanent Mission to the United Nations spoke on DPRK.. The Third Committee of the United Nations focuses on social, humanitarian, and cultural affairs. The work of the Third Committee is scheduled to continue until Tuesday 22 November.
