Statement  By Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran  Before  The 14th Session of the Working Group on Trafficking in Persons    Agenda Item (2): Trafficking in persons for the removal of organs and related conduct.   (8 and 9 July 2024) In the name of God, the most Compassionate, the most merciful         At the outset, we would like to express our appreciation to the Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the session in a timely and efficient manner. I also seize this opportunity to express my gratitude to the esteemed panellists for their valuable contributions.    Madam person/Mr. Chairman,     The Islamic Republic of Iran is decisive in assisting international efforts to fight against human trafficking, especially the abhorrent crime of trafficking in persons for organ removal. In this regard, it is highly expected that the international community acknowledge their deep moral, ethical, and legal obligations and take concrete measures to eliminate this serious violation of human rights and human dignity.     The Islamic Republic of Iran makes all necessary efforts to fight against trafficking in person, in all its forms. As one of the first countries signed UNTOC, Iran has also taken several steps in line with the provisions of the Convention and the Protocols thereto to combat trafficking in persons for organ removal and related activities.     Enjoying        efficient       and        robust       legislative,        judicial       and administrative frameworks, the Islamic Republic of Iran has well   demonstrated its dedication to effectively combating various forms of crimes particularly trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants. To this end, the relevant Act of 2004 has been amended which underlines the importance of addressing TIP as a serious crime, the perpetration of human trafficking by organized groups, and considering the commission against minors and women as aggravating circumstances.     Considering our geopolitical position, law enforcement agencies of Iran are at the forefront of the battle against the smuggling of migrants, a crime that leaves migrants vulnerable to organized groups committing trafficking in persons. We have invested significantly in training our law enforcement personnel to identify and investigate such criminal cases, including those involving organ removal. Specialized units within the police and judiciary focus exclusively on dismantling networks of such crimes and bringing offenders to justice. Needless to say, these efforts should be bolstered by continuous capacity-building initiatives and technical assistance along with concrete measures aimed at promoting international cooperation and making collective efforts effective in addressing ever-increasing illegal human trafficking.   Madam person/Mr. Chairman,     Iran places a high priority on implementing preventive measures to combat human trafficking for the purpose of organ removal. Public   awareness campaigns,     in cooperation with non-governmental organizations, are designed to educate our citizens about the risk factors and indicators of trafficking. Stringent regulations have been implemented within the public and private health sectors to prohibit illegal organ transplants. Medical professionals and institutions are required to maintain vigilance with the latest criminal trends and also, adhere to standards in order to prevent exploitation and ensure compliance with laws and regulations.     The protection and support of victims is paramount in our anti- trafficking efforts. We provide an array of comprehensive support services, including medical treatment, psychosocial counselling, and legal assistance. Our rehabilitation and reintegration centres offer secure environments for victims to recuperate and re-establish their social activities.      Madam person/Mr. Chairman,     Iran emphasizes the significant role of international cooperation in addressing human trafficking for the purpose of organ removal, recognizing the imperative of collective action in tackling these transnational crimes. We actively engage in regional and international initiatives, including information sharing and joint operations in accordance with the principles of shared responsibility. Our commitment is rooted in the tenets of international law and underpins diligent endeavours to combat and eradicate this global scourge.     The Islamic Republic of Iran reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating trafficking in person, despite challenges and obstacles arising from the imposition of Unilateral Coercive Measures that contravene fundamental principles of international law and the UN Charter. These measures detrimentally impact the ability of the United Nations bodies to facilitate international cooperation and provide tailored, accessible, and effective technical assistance and necessary equipment, which is pivotal in addressing various aspects of combating TIP, as well as the ability of the countries to allocate sufficient resources to combat these crimes. Furthermore, these measures have far-reaching negative effects in the context of TOC on affected individuals without any discrimination as to age, gender, or status.     Last but not least, we do hope this session will help to move to a better position where a collective response to this horrific human trafficking for the purpose of organ removal is strengthened.      Thank you.                                   4