The United Nations social development commission has controversially appointed Abbas Tajiki, a representative of the Iranian regime, as vice-chair. His role will involve promoting social inclusion and reducing poverty, which are critical issues within the commission's agenda. This appointment has raised eyebrows among human rights advocates due to Iran's long history of severe human rights violations, including the recent crackdown on widespread protests within the country.

Tajiki will share the vice-chair position with Azerbaijan's representative, Shahriyar Hajiyev, under the leadership of Stefano Guerra from Portugal. The commission is part of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is tasked with overseeing various social development agendas. The selection of a representative from the Iranian regime is particularly contentious given the regime’s track record, which includes numerous allegations of systemic repression and violence against its own citizens.

Human rights defenders are vocal against the decision, arguing that having an Iranian representative in a position to influence discussions on social issues undermines the integrity of the commission. The critics point to the recent violent responses to protests in Iran as a reflection of the regime's oppressive tactics, emphasizing that the elevation of such a representative at the UN may legitimize actions that contradict the ideals of human rights and social justice that the commission purports to promote.