Evidence of meeting #2 for Subcommittee on International Human Rights in the 39th Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was iranian.
A recording is available from Parliament.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Scott Reid
We have exactly two minutes left before we have to excuse our guests. So we have time for—
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Scott Reid
Thank you.
I have one question. Madam Ebadi, in response to an earlier question from our colleague, Madame St-Hilaire, you said, “When women are arrested, please protest”. I'm assuming you're saying that because it is your belief that protests in the international community can have some practical impact back at home in Iran. Would a similar impact occur from protests relating to other types of human rights violations--for example, the executions of homosexuals or perhaps some kinds of religious persecution against the Baha'i minority, that kind of thing?
Interpretation
I want to ask you to protest against those laws in Iran that are against human rights. One of them is a different type of punishment that you have in Iran. This is not only about the homosexuals.
Two months ago in one of the western cities of Iran five people were punished. They cut off their right hands and left legs. They were supporting separation.
In my view, I'm not in favour of those who are in favour of separation, but it is not justifiable to punish people in this way in the 21st century. If someone is in favour of separation, this is a political view, and the answer to that is dialogue and talks, not by punishment and not in such a way of punishment. Therefore you can see there are worse situations than the situation of those who are homosexuals.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Scott Reid
Thank you very much.
We've used up all the time we had. We are very grateful you have been as generous as you have been. I think I'm correct in expressing the appreciation of the entire committee.
I'm going to declare a brief recess while we allow our guests to leave. We'll go in camera when we resume.
Interpretation
I told you that the Iranian people have some criticism of the government, but that does not mean we are willing to attack militarily here. We would never let any foreign soldier come to Iran. We love Iran. We want Iran to be free and we don't want to make another Iraq. Please remember. I criticize--I'm in opposition--but, believe me, Iranian people won't allow a military attack here.
Thank you.
Conservative
