UN Rights Chief Alarmed by Protest Violence in Iran

Tehran, the capital of Iran

The UN human rights chief has called for an independent and transparent investigation into reports of deaths and widespread arrests during ongoing nationwide protests in Iran, amid mounting concerns over the use of force by security personnel.

In a statement issued on Friday, Volker Türk said he was “deeply disturbed” by the violence reported over nearly two weeks of demonstrations, stressing that those responsible for any violations must be held accountable in line with international human rights standards.

People took to the streets in the capital, Tehran, in the final days of December 2025, fuelled by the country’s cost-of-living crisis. Rights groups have reported that nearly 50 people have been killed and hundreds arrested.

To prevent further escalation, Mr Türk said it is essential to address underlying grievances through “inclusive and meaningful dialogue.”

Information blackout

Multiple news outlets have reported nationwide internet and communication shutdowns in Iran since Thursday night.

Mr Türk said such actions undermine freedom of expression and access to information. A near-total news blackout was reported on Friday.

He added that the shutdowns also adversely affect the work of those documenting human rights violations and limit access to essential and emergency services.

Responding to a question during Friday’s noon briefing, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said UN staff on the ground are “safe and accounted for.”

Right to protest under international law

When the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) was adopted in 1948, the international community agreed that “everyone has the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and association,” as stated in Article 20 of the Declaration.

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights also recognises the right to peaceful assembly under Article 21. A clarifying document, General Comment No. 37, published in 2020 by the UN Human Rights Committee, provides further interpretation of this right.

Both Mr Türk and Mr Dujarric reiterated on Friday that peaceful protest is a fundamental human right.