The statement made by the Islamic Republic of Iran On the seventh session Forum on minority issue 25-26 November 2014 Mr. Chairman In responses to some of the references made by certain groups to my government, my delegation would like to make the following points: Based on Article 19 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran "the people of Iran from any ethnicity or tribe have equal rights, and the color of their skin, race, language and so forth will not give them any advantages. Also Article 20 clearly stipulates that, all the people of the nation whether they are men or women are protected equally by the law, and they can enjoy all human, political, social and cultural rights with the observation of Islamic principles." Mr. Chairman Iranian society is a multiethnic society with ancient assortment of cultures and religions. In this regard, my delegation would like to emphasize the high and effective position of ethnic groups in all national decision-makings, including in the parliament, leading national and religious institutions and Assembly of Experts. Furthermore, one of the new established mechanisms in the promotion and protection of minority rights is the appointment of the President's special assistant for ethnic groups and religious minorities which to act under his direct supervision, in 2013. 1