Meeting of Academics in Exile Association with UK Parliament Members Date: 19th March 2024

Participants: Academics in Exile Association, Various Anglo-Iranian Associations, Cross-Party Members of UK Parliament

Venue: House of Lords, UK Parliament

Purpose: Discussion on the targeting of students and universities in Iran by the regime, and announcement regarding the extension of the UN investigation group's mandate.

The Academics in Exile Association, in collaboration with several Anglo-Iranian associations, convened a meeting with cross-party Members of the UK Parliament at the House of Lords on 19th March 2024. The primary focus of the meeting was to address the alarming trend of the Iranian regime targeting students and universities.

During the discussions, it was emphasized that students and universities in Iran have historically played a significant role in leading anti-regime protests and advocating for a free and democratic republic. However, the regime's systematic targeting of these institutions poses a grave threat to academic freedom and the right to education in Iran.

Furthermore, the meeting included deliberations on advancing the culture of resistance against the oppressive regime. Participants underscored the importance of supporting Iranian students and academics in their pursuit of freedom of expression and intellectual inquiry.

Of notable significance, the Public Relations Director of the Academic in Exile Association made an announcement regarding the extension of the mandate of the UN investigation group and the special rapporteur for Iran. It was declared that the mandate would be prolonged by another year during the upcoming session of the UN Human Rights Council. This decision reflects the ongoing commitment to scrutinizing human rights violations in Iran and holding the regime accountable for its actions.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a platform for robust dialogue between academia, political representatives, and advocacy groups, highlighting the urgent need to address the targeting of students and universities in Iran. The announcement of the extension of the UN investigation group's mandate underscores international efforts to uphold human rights and promote accountability in Iran.