Iranian Foreign Minister Removed from UN Human Rights Council Speakers List After Online Campaign
GENEVA, Switzerland 13 -02- 2026
The name of Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi was removed from the updated list of speakers for the upcoming United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session on February 23, 2026, following sustained online pressure from activists and rights groups.
Invitation Cancelled After Public Outcry
Araghchi’s removal came after a widespread online campaign urging the United Nations to withdraw his invitation to speak at the UNHRC session. Petitioners and human rights advocates argued that granting a platform to Iran’s top diplomat would undermine the credibility of the council amid ongoing concerns about Tehran’s record on human rights. The digital petition reportedly gathered significant signatures before the decision.
The removal represents a rare reversal of an invitation to speak at a major UN rights forum and highlights growing global tensions over Iran’s internal policies and international diplomatic engagements.
Background: Human Rights Concerns and UN Sessions
Iran has faced mounting criticism from Western governments, international NGOs and rights organisations over alleged abuses linked to its domestic response to protests and crackdowns. Earlier this year, the UN Human Rights Council held a special session focusing on “alarming violence” used against civilians during nationwide unrest.
Activists had called on other delegations to walk out or protest if Araghchi appeared on the speakers list — a move reminiscent of past diplomatic walkouts at UN sessions when Iranian officials have addressed human rights issues.
UN Response and Next Steps
UN officials have not publicly commented on the specific reasons behind the removal, beyond updating the official speaker list for the Feb. 23 session. Araghchi remains Iran’s foreign minister and is expected to continue representing Tehran in other diplomatic forums.
Observers say the decision may deepen debates over how international organisations balance diplomatic engagement with accountability and moral credibility on human rights matters.
Paris Telegraph Geneva Correspondent
