On 8 December 2022, UNESCO officials called on H. E. Mr. Ahmad Pakatchi, Ambassador and Permanent Delegate of the Islamic Republic of Iran to UNESCO, to discuss the situation in the country.
UNESCO is following closely the situation in Iran within the framework of its mandate, and is alarmed by reports of violence against learners, journalists and artists.
In particular, UNESCO is concerned by reports of limitations to freedom of expression, including press, artistic and academic freedom, as well as reports of the arbitrary detention of journalists and blockages to internet access, which undermine citizens' right to access information.
UNESCO wishes to reaffirm that universities and schools should be safe places for students and educators, in particular girls and women.
UNESCO echoes the United Nations Secretary-General, who has called for security forces "to refrain from using unnecessary or disproportionate force" and stressed "the need to respect human rights, including freedom of expression".
