Iran’s Deputy FM set to speak at UN amid calls for diplomatic boycott

According to the list of speakers published by the UN Human Rights Council, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi is scheduled to address the council session on February 23. Human rights activist Gissou Nia shared the information on X on February 13.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was initially slated to speak at the session, but his name was removed from the list following an activist-led campaign of pressure on the UN. The decision to include Gharibabadi has sparked renewed calls for diplomats to walk out in protest.

"Although there's no Islamic Republic of Iran official currently listed on the updated schedule of speakers for the UN Human Rights Council session on Feb 23, they may still turn up. So visit http://regimeout.com/araghchi to urge diplomats to walk out if anyone from the IR speaks," Nia wrote.

The 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council (HRC61) is scheduled to begin on February 23 amid growing pressures on the international human rights system. Delegates will convene while ongoing conflicts, questions over the application of international law, and financial strains on the UN continue to challenge the council’s credibility.

Civil society groups and analysts have pointed to the conflict in Gaza, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and military actions in Venezuela as examples of situations that have undermined confidence in multilateral institutions. Critics have also highlighted concerns over the selective enforcement of international law and impunity for powerful states.

Financial pressures on the UN add to the council’s challenges. The UN Secretary-General has warned of a “potential financial collapse” as member states continue to withhold or delay contributions. So far, only 61 member states have paid their regular 2026 budget contributions, leaving a significant shortfall, with the United States accounting for 95% of the $1.6 billion deficit in the 2025 budget.

Human rights organisations stress the importance of a multilateral system that upholds universal human rights, equality among states, and effective mechanisms with adequate resources to respond to violations. The HRC61 session will address these issues through dialogue, reports, and the consideration of resolutions.

By Tamilla Hasanova