Source: European Parliament
The EU strongly supports the fundamental aspiration of the people of Iran for a future where their universal human rights and fundamental freedoms are respected, protected and fulfilled.
The EU continuously engages and supports civil society both inside and outside Iran through the Commission, the High Representative/Vice-President, in cooperation with the European Parliament.
In the December 2022 Council conclusions[1], the EU reconfirmed its resolute commitment to human rights in its policy towards Iran. Fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, both online and offline, freedom of assembly and freedom of association must be respected in all circumstances, and this can only be ensured by the existence of a strong and free civil society.
The EU has reacted promptly, both publicly and privately, to human rights violations in Iran, including by strongly supporting United Nations accountability mechanisms.
The EU’s humanitarian assistance has been instrumental in supporting the lifesaving needs of displaced Afghans in Iran, the world’s largest host country for refugees.
In 2024, the EU allocated EUR 12.45 million[2] for humanitarian programmes to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable, notably women and children, focusing on food security, health and education, among other areas.
The humanitarian assistance funded by the EU is delivered in partnership with United Nation’s agencies, international organisations and non-governmental organisations.