European Parliament Hosts Landmark Conference on Women’s Rights in Iran

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Staff Writer
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On Tuesday, April 9, a pivotal conference was held at the European Parliament in Brussels, titled “Torch-bearers of Change: Supporting the Long Struggle of Women in Iran.”
On Tuesday, April 9, a pivotal conference was held at the European Parliament in Brussels, titled “Torch-bearers of Change: Supporting the Long Struggle of Women in Iran.”

On Tuesday, April 9, a pivotal conference was held at the European Parliament in Brussels, titled “Torch-bearers of Change: Supporting the Long Struggle of Women in Iran.”

 

This gathering, chaired by MEP Radka Maxová, Deputy Chair of the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality Committee, highlighted the ongoing struggle for women’s rights and freedom in Iran.

The conference welcomed representatives from the Iranian European Association across various European nations, underscoring the critical role of international solidarity in advancing the cause of Iranian women. Remote participation by Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), added a potent voice to the proceedings. Rajavi delivered a stirring message: “Rebellious women in Iran address the regime: We are your nightmare and know that you will be overthrown.”

 

 

Mrs. Rajavi elaborated on the dire situation faced by Iranian women under the regime, noting that the past 45 years have seen tens of thousands suffer torture or execution in their quest for freedom. She emphasized the vital role women have played at the forefront of organized resistance, both domestically and internationally, describing their leadership as essential for liberating all people from authoritarianism and fundamentalism.

Highlighting recent events, Mrs. Rajavi pointed to the “sham elections,” which she claimed embarrassed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei due to a nationwide boycott and minimal voter turnout. She also condemned Western governments’ attempts to appease the regime, accusing them of enabling Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and exacerbating conflicts in the Middle East.

MEP Radka Maxová emphasized the oppression faced by women and girls in Iran, citing reports from the UN special rapporteur and the UN FACT mission, which documented executions, human rights violations, and crimes against humanity, particularly targeting women and girls.

 

 

The conference also heard from MEP Javier Zarzalejos, head of the Friends of a Free Iran Intergroup, who praised Mrs. Rajavi’s leadership and her comprehensive Ten-Point Plan for a democratic republic. He affirmed the plan’s alignment with democratic values, emphasizing the growing global awareness of the oppressive nature of the Iranian regime.

Dutch MEP Dorien Rookmaker spoke about the inspiring role of Mrs. Rajavi and other Iranian women in leading resistance movements. Bookmaker highlighted the case of Maryam Akbari-Monfared, calling for international solidarity in advocating for justice for those unjustly imprisoned by the regime.

 

 

In closing, MEPs from across the spectrum reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Iranian opposition’s goals and enhancing its international standing. They called for concrete actions to back the aspirations of Iranian women and recognized the critical role the European community plays in supporting their fight for justice, equality, and democracy.

This conference not only served as a platform for discussing the grim realities faced by Iranian women but also underscored the powerful resilience and the global support that fuels their quest for freedom.

 

 

 

MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI  (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu

 

 

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