ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has firmly voted against a United Nations Human RightsCouncil resolution addressing the critical human rights situation in theIslamic Republic of Iran, underscoring its longstanding friendship withTehran and opposition to external interference. The decision came duringthe 39th Special Session of the Council in Geneva on 23 January 2026,convened to examine the deteriorating conditions following widespreadprotests and a violent crackdown. Pakistani Counsellor Muneeb Ahmeddelivered a statement emphasizing solidarity with Iran, highlighting sharedhistorical bonds and concerns over unilateral sanctions and regionalaggressions as contributing factors to unrest.
The resolution, which extended mandates for fact-finding and scrutiny ofIran’s human rights practices, passed with 25 votes in favor, sevenagainst, and 14 abstentions. Pakistan joined other nations in opposition,arguing that such measures reflect selectivity and undermine the Council’suniversal mandate. The session focused on allegations of brutal repressionduring protests that erupted in late 2025, resulting in significant loss oflife, including among protesters, security forces, and civilians. Reportsindicate thousands affected by the crackdown, prompting internationalconcern and calls for accountability.
In his address, Mr. Muneeb Ahmed stressed Pakistan’s unwavering friendshipwith Iran, noting that Tehran was the first country to recognize Pakistan’sindependence in 1947. He described the bilateral relationship as rooted inshared culture, history, and faith, which has endured despite domestic andregional challenges. The statement expressed deep regret over tragic deathsof first responders, medical staff, policemen, protesters, and bystandersduring the unrest, while condemning rioting, arson, and attacks ongovernment offices and places of worship.
Pakistan welcomed the reported cessation of violence and gradual return tonormalcy in Iran, along with Tehran’s commitment to due process. Thedelegation argued that international human rights law acknowledges publicsafety and order as essential for rights enjoyment. Maintaining peace andstability was presented as the optimal safeguard for human rights in Iranand the broader region, particularly in light of prior regional militaryattacks in June that caused extensive loss and destruction among Iranians.
A key element of Pakistan’s position involved criticism of unilateralsanctions imposed on Iran, which the statement described as aggravatingfactors underlying the protests. The High Commissioner for Human Rights andvarious Special Procedures have repeatedly warned that such measures impairthe dignity and rights of ordinary Iranians while constraining thegovernment’s capacity to fulfill human rights obligations. Pakistanasserted that sanctions, military actions, and external interference haveonly exacerbated suffering.
The statement questioned the efficacy of the special session, suggestingthat imposed mandates without Iran’s consent hold dubious value. Itadvocated for dialogue and cooperation as time-tested instruments toimprove human rights situations, rather than confrontation driven bygeopolitical considerations. Sponsors of the resolution were invited toreflect on how such approaches reduce space for genuine engagement andexpose the Council to accusations of selectivity, ultimately harming theIranian people.
Pakistan’s vote aligns with its consistent foreign policy ofnon-interference in internal affairs of sovereign states and preference fordiplomatic solutions. By opposing the resolution, Islamabad sought toprotect bilateral relations with Iran while promoting regional stability.The position drew appreciation from Iranian officials, who publicly thankedPakistan for its support and historic stance at the Council.
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The broader context includes ongoing tensions in the region, where protestsin Iran have been linked to economic pressures, sanctions, and externalevents. Pakistan emphasized that true progress in human rights requiresconstructive dialogue rather than politicized mandates. The Council’sdecision to deepen scrutiny through extended fact-finding mechanismshighlights divisions among member states on addressing such issues.
This development reinforces Pakistan’s role as a proponent ofmultilateralism balanced with respect for sovereignty. Observers note thatthe vote reflects alliances among certain nations wary of perceivedWestern-led initiatives in human rights forums. Iran’s government hasmaintained that protests stem from external provocations and internalsabotage, while committing to internal investigations.
Pakistan’s principled stand underscores the complexities of human rightsdebates in international bodies, where geopolitical alignments ofteninfluence outcomes. The emphasis on dialogue over confrontation mayencourage future engagements focused on cooperation rather thancondemnation.
Source:https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/hrc/special-sessions/session39/39-special-session
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