UNICEF calls for immediate release of children detained in nationwide protests in Iran

Following the continued nationwide protests, UNICEF expressed concern about the situation of children detained in Iran, calling for their immediate release and independent monitoring of their detention conditions.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) issued an official statement expressing serious concern over the continued detention of children during the recent nationwide protests in Iran and calling for the immediate release of all persons under the age of 18 who have been detained in these events.

In this statement, "Edward Beigbeder", UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, referring to the reports received about the detention of children, stated that the exact number of detainees, as well as the conditions of their detention, remain independently verifiable. He emphasized that the international organization calls for independent monitors and mechanisms to be able to examine without delay the condition, treatment and well-being of all detained children.

The statement said that detention and deprivation of liberty for children, even in the short term, can have profound psychological, emotional and social consequences, affecting their future. UNICEF warned that the harms caused by imprisonment at a young age threaten not only the individual lives of these children, but also the future health and stability of society.

The organization also recalled that, according to international law standards, deprivation of liberty should be a measure of last resort and for the shortest possible period of time. The statement stressed that children who are detained must be treated with humanity, respect and inherent dignity, and be provided with regular access to family, lawyers and support services.

UNICEF calls on the authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran to end all forms of detention of children and ensure that their fundamental rights are respected, citing the binding obligations of States under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. According to the Convention, to which Iran is a party, every child has the right to special protection, a fair trial appropriate to their age and the preservation of human dignity.

In recent years, human rights organizations have repeatedly warned about the consequences of detaining children in the context of civil unrest. Child rights experts emphasize that the experience of detention can lead to chronic anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and disruption of the educational process. From an educational and social perspective, such experiences may form a cycle of distrust, isolation, and vulnerability in the later years of these children's lives.

For many Christian leaders and human rights advocates, protecting children is not only a legal responsibility, but also a moral one. Christian teachings also emphasize the inherent dignity of the child and the need to care for the most vulnerable in society. Observers believe that any action to ensure the safety and freedom of children is a step towards upholding human and divine values.

While concerns remain about the situation of minor detainees, UNICEF has stressed that transparent engagement with international bodies and the provision of independent monitoring can help reduce tensions and build trust. The organization said it stands ready to work with all relevant parties to protect children and their families.