KHRD at the 18th UN Forum
Kurdistan Human Rights Development (KHRD) proudly participated in the 18th United Nations Forum on Minority Issues, held on 27–28 November at the Palais des Nations. Our delegation included three representatives: Hazher Ghadery, Co-Founder & Executive Director of KHRD, who delivered an official speech to the Forum’s Chair addressing ongoing human rights violations against minorities in Iran, Iraq, and Syria, as well as the challenges faced by Christians and Kakais in the region; Lukman Aliassi, Co-Founder & Chairperson; and Edris Aliassi, Head of Communications. Their engagement reflects KHRD’s continued commitment to advocating for the rights, protection, and dignity of all minority communities.
15th UN Forum on Minorities
15th UN Forum on Minorities
Over half of the total number of victims during the nationwide protests in Iran are from ethnic minority groups, particularly the Baluchis and Kurds. This stark statistic reflects the Iranian regime’s disproportionate and often lethal use of force in minority-populated regions, where systemic discrimination and militarisation have long been entrenched.
The Kurdish minority in Iran has faced a particularly brutal crackdown. In cities such as Mahabad, Piranshahr, Bukan, and Javanrud, the government has deployed heavily armed security and military forces. These regions remain under siege, and civilians, men, women, and even children, face a constant threat of violence, arbitrary detention, and death. Credible reports indicate the use of live ammunition against peaceful protesters, house raids, and enforced disappearances.
Beyond protest-related violence, Kurdish political and civil rights activists continue to be subjected to harsh prison sentences and executions following unfair trials. Dozens of Kurdish prisoners, including juveniles and political detainees, have been executed in recent years. These actions are part of a broader pattern of state repression that targets ethnic identity, cultural expression, and demands for autonomy or basic human rights. The international community must hold the Iranian government accountable for these grave human rights violations. The plight of the Kurds, along with other persecuted minorities such as the Baluchis, Ahwazi Arabs, and Turkmen, must not be overlooked in discussions on justice, accountability, and minority rights in Iran.
