Mr. Speaker, the Baha'is are the largest religious minority in Iran, totalling 350,000 people. Religious beliefs are the only thing that differentiate the Baha'i from the rest of the Iranian population. Iran has classified these people as unprotected infidels and has engaged in their systematic persecution on the basis of religion.
Because of their religion Baha'is are denied basic human rights, including the right of redress or protection against assault, murder or other forms of persecution. Since 1979 there have been 201 Baha'i killed and 15 are missing and presumed dead. Baha'is are denied access to education and employment. Many have also lost their homes and savings. All of this persecution is designed to force the Baha'i to recant their faith.
Canada and the international community must continue to scrutinize the human rights situation in Iran and make every effort to encourage the full recognition of religious and human rights for the Baha'i in that country.