UN removes Iranian FM from Human Rights Council speakers list PHOTO

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been removed from the list of speakers at the opening of the United Nations Human Rights Council session on February 23.

“Iran Regime Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is now REMOVED from speakers list of U.N. Human Rights Council opening on Feb. 23," said international human rights lawyer Hillel C. Noyer on social media platform X.

"This follows our 100,000 signatures demanding to disinvite the murderer, and calling on Swiss police to arrest him for crimes against humanity”.

The decision comes after an online campaign urging the UN to withdraw Araghchi’s invitation. Some delegations had threatened to leave the chamber if he or any other Iranian representative spoke.

The 61st session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC61) is scheduled to begin on 23 February, taking place at a time of significant pressure on the international human rights system. Delegates will meet amid ongoing conflicts, questions over the application of international law, and financial strains affecting the UN.

Civil society groups and analysts point to situations such as the conflict in Gaza, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and military action in Venezuela as examples of challenges that have eroded confidence in multilateral institutions. Critics say the selective enforcement of international law and impunity for powerful states have compounded these concerns.

The UN Secretary‑General has warned of a “potential financial collapse” as Member States continue to withhold or delay their contributions. Only 61 Member States have paid their regular budget contributions for 2026 so far, leaving a significant shortfall, with the United States accounting for 95 per cent 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, adequately resourced mechanisms to respond to violations. The upcoming HRC61 session will address these issues through dialogue, reports, and consideration of resolutions.

By Aghakazim Guliyev