Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was scheduled to attend the United Nations Global Refugee Forum in Geneva, Switzerland on December 13. The forum was promoted as the “world’s largest gathering in support of refugees and the communities that host them.”
Raisi has never “supported” any refugees, but has been linked to the creation of a large number of refugees through the Iranian regime’s oppressive tactics, violence, and judicial executions. He was allegedly involved in the massacre of thousands of political prisoners in 1988, and was part of the ‘Death Committee’ that carried out a fatwa issued by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. However, just before his arrival in Geneva, Raisi canceled his attendance, with Iran still being represented at the forum by Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
It is speculated that Raisi pulled out due to concerns of potential arrest, as a legal complaint was filed against him in Switzerland just before the forum, urging the Swiss federal public prosecutor to arrest and charge Raisi with crimes against humanity related to the 1988 massacre.
Iran’s participation at the forum has been criticized by human rights groups, particularly in light of the regime’s recent surge in executions and Iran’s appointment as chair of the United Nations Human Rights Council Social Forum.
The increase in executions has been linked to the 2022 uprising and protests, as the regime uses fear and insecurity to maintain control. Raisi’s defense of his role in the 1988 mass executions has added to the controversy surrounding his attendance at the forum, even though he ultimately canceled his participation.
The UN’s willingness to allow Raisi to address the refugee forum has raised questions about the institution’s integrity and its commitment to representing and defending vulnerable populations. The presence of Iran at the forum also comes at a time when the regime’s oppressive tactics against women and political dissidents have led to widespread condemnation.