Statement on the International Day of Children’s Rights and the Elimination of Violence Against Women  On this International Day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the rights of children and eradicating violence against women. This day reminds us of the systemic inequalities and injustices that disproportionately harm the most vulnerable—women and children—around the world. These interconnected challenges demand collective action from our governments and institutions.  Women’s Rights in Iran  In Iran, women face profound legal and systemic inequalities that deny them basic freedoms and perpetuate cycles of injustice. Discriminatory laws, such as unequal custody rights in divorce cases, deprive women of agency and disproportionately affect their lives. These structural barriers erode women’s dignity and opportunities.  On the other hand, U.S. sanctions worsen human suffering by restricting access to life-saving medications, including treatments for rare diseases; These sanctions disproportionately harm women and children, further marginalizing the most vulnerable.  Global Economic and Systemic Violence Economic violence is the most widespread and harmful form of violence and oppression against women and children. Globally, poverty, labor exploitation, and unequal access to resources deprive billions of their dignity and fundamental rights—including in Iran and even in countries like Canada.  In Gaza, for the past 14 months, women and children have endured unimaginable suffering amidst what can only be described as a genocide. Relentless bombardments and a devastating blockade have claimed tens of thousands of lives and destroyed homes, schools, and hospitals. Over 70% of casualties are women and children. The denial of basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care has created a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale. Yet, international bodies, including the United Nations, fail to enforce laws that could stop this carnage and protect people.  Let us use this day as a call to action of our governments and institutions to address these urgent needs and commit to building a future rooted in justice, dignity, and equality where every woman and child can live and thrive in peace and freedom. 

Closing Submissions by Iranian Canadian Congress Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and DemocraticInstitutions