"Cohabitation between same-sex couples should not be recognised as family."
Dr. Nasirzadeh added that contradictory scientific research on LGBTQ issues further complicates the debate. "Same-sex families do not understand the basic needs of children or gender roles of the opposite sex," she added.
Iran's Ambassador to Kenya, Dr. Ali Gholampour, echoed these sentiments, arguing that same-sex practices go against the values upheld in both Islamic and Christian societies.
"This lifestyle threatens the basic foundations of families and cannot be considered a human right, as it undermines family integrity and the role of women," he said.
He added that Iran has consistently opposed LGBTQ rights in international forums.
Lack of chastity
Chastity violations, including unfaithfulness in marriage, were also cited as a leading cause of rising divorce rates and broken families.
In some Muslim countries, adultery is punishable by severe penalties, including stoning or imprisonment.
The conference, held on the Prophet Mohammed's birthday, provided a platform to share insights on the state of family life in Iran.
It also explored the evolving role of women in modern society, where gender equality is increasingly championed.
Lecturers and scholars from the University of Nairobi, St. Paul's University, Kenyatta University, and Maendeleo Ya Wanawake discussed why gender equality is critical for achieving peaceful societies and sustainable development.
Dr. Ali Pourmarjan, the Cultural Counsellor at the Iranian Embassy, averred that families worldwide, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Europe, face significant challenges.
"We felt it necessary to bring together Islamic and Christian scholars to discuss family and women's rights in today's world," he said, adding that the conference was the first of several planned on these issues.
Muiu also highlighted other threats to families, such as poverty and interference from relatives, particularly when a husband dies, leading to disputes over property.
"Mother-in-laws, in some cases, have become a threat to family stability, and this must be addressed," she said.