UN Special Rapporteur Hears Heartbreaking Stories of Iranian Patients’ Struggles

The recent interactive dialogue with NGOs and the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, Ms. Heba Hagrass, highlighted the pressing issues faced by individuals with disabilities across various regions, especially in Iran and Palestine. This vital discussion took place on March 14 from 10 to 11 AM local time in Geneva, organized by various institutions. The dialogue featured representatives from the Iranian Thalassemia Society and the Iranian Autism Association, alongside a Palestinian activist residing in the Netherlands, who brought attention to the multifaceted challenges confronting persons with disabilities.

Challenges Faced by Thalassemia Patients Under Sanctions

During the meeting, Dr. Maryam Akhavan Tavakoli, the representative of the Iranian Thalassemia Society, elaborated on the severe challenges confronting thalassemia patients. She pinpointed sanctions as a major contributor to the escalating risk of secondary complications among these patients. Key points highlighted include:

• Lack of Access to Medications: Patients are struggling due to the unavailability of high-quality iron-chelating medications.
• Health Complications: Many thalassemia patients are experiencing serious health issues including osteoporosis, diabetes, heart problems, and neurological complications.
• Increased Disability Rates: The aforementioned health complications have led to a rise in disability rates and premature deaths among thalassemia patients.

Dr. Akhavan Tavakoli’s remarks shed light on the urgent need for international support to alleviate the hardships faced by thalassemia patients in Iran.

Addressing Challenges Faced by Autism Patients

Furthermore, Dr. Reza Hajati and Dr. Mahmoud Karimi, representatives from the Iranian Autism Association, addressed the plight of individuals with autism. They articulated that:

“In Iran, tens of thousands of people live with autism; however, many of them are deprived of essential services due to a lack of diagnostic and therapeutic facilities. The government faces challenges in implementing the National Comprehensive Autism Program, as well as in providing necessary resources and social services.”

To address these pressing issues, they advocated for:

• International Cooperation: Enhancing teacher training and services for individuals with autism.
• Employment Programs: Increasing opportunities for individuals with autism within the job market.
• Financial Support: Boosting financial and technical assistance for autism-related services and public awareness campaigns.

The representatives urged special attention to the hurdles faced by individuals with autism, particularly in countries facing sanctions, and requested the Special Rapporteur to include these concerns in future reports.

Human Rights Violations in Gaza

Mustafa Bataree, a Palestinian activist based in the Netherlands, shared poignant insights on the dire conditions of persons with disabilities in Gaza and Palestine. He stated:

“There is no medical or therapeutic support for Palestinian children, and many of them suffer from severe physical and psychological crises due to war and harsh living conditions. In the past year, as a result of the Zionist regime’s war on Gaza, the number of disabilities caused by war injuries has increased significantly.”

Bataree highlighted that since October 7, the occupying forces have breached human rights conventions safeguarding persons with disabilities during armed conflicts. The alarming statistics reveal:

• Over 1,000 children in Gaza have lost their limbs since the onset of hostilities, translating to approximately ten children per day suffering amputations.
• Nearly 500 children per month have sustained severe disabilities due to the ongoing conflict.
• More than 5,000 Palestinians injured since October 7 are now living with debilitating conditions.

This emphasis on the plight of persons with disabilities in conflict zones underscores the urgent need for humanitarian support and intervention.

Conclusion of the Interactive Dialogue

At the conclusion of this crucial dialogue, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities expressed her gratitude for the insightful presentations and constructive perspectives shared by NGO representatives. She reaffirmed the vital role these organizations play in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities and stressed the importance of:

• Continuous Engagement: Building effective collaborations between civil society and official institutions.
• Monitoring Commitments: Ensuring that commitments are upheld and supportive policies are enforced.
• Facilitating Future Interactions: Continuing such dialogues to develop and implement effective measures aimed at improving the lives of individuals with disabilities.

By fostering these discussions and partnerships, there is hope for significant advancements in ensuring the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities globally.