UN Women statement on the death of Mahsa Amini

The death of any young person, any young woman, is a tragedy beyond measure. The circumstances surrounding this series of events, are cause for particular concern.

Reports suggest that Mahsa Amini was detained by authorities enforcing strict rules on women’s dress, on 13 September, and that she died, still in custody, three days later.

The precise causes and circumstances of her death are unclear. What is clear is that she was detained and treated in violation of the most basic human rights. The incident also underscores the abuses experienced by women and girls worldwide.

In this context, we echo the call of our colleagues at the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, for a prompt, impartial, and effective investigation by an independent competent authority.

May Mahsa Amini rest in peace.