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International Conference: Women, Force for Change – Free Iran 2025

Written by Shamsi Saadati
Female Leaders Rally for Democratic Renewal at "Women, Force for Change – Free Iran 2025
Female Leaders Rally for Democratic Renewal at “Women, Force for Change – Free Iran 2025

On February 22, 2025, in Paris, the international conference “Women, Force for Change – Free Iran 2025” convened a diverse assembly of global leaders, activists, and human rights advocates. Held ahead of International Women’s Day, the event focused on exposing decades of systemic oppression and discussing the urgent need for democratic renewal and gender equality in Iran.

Speakers highlighted the resilience of Iranian women who have fought for freedom despite severe restrictions, including compulsory hijab, enforced religion, and political disenfranchisement. With passionate addresses from former government officials, sitting members of parliaments, women’s rights activists, and international dignitaries, the conference urged concrete global action to hold the Iranian regime accountable and to support the struggle for a just and democratic future in Iran. Together, they demanded swift, transformative global action.

Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, delivered a searing keynote address at the conference. In her speech, she paid homage to the countless heroines of Iran’s long struggle for freedom, asserting that the fight against compulsory hijab, enforced religion, and repressive governance is fundamentally a battle for human dignity. She vividly described the persistent resistance that has spanned nearly 44 years—a struggle marked by arrests, torture, and execution—and warned that the regime’s reliance on religious fascism, bolstered by nuclear threats, would not withstand the determined will of its people. Her words served as a rallying cry for a future where Iranian women lead the charge toward a free, democratic society.

NCRI Women’s Committee Chair Sarvenaz Chitsaz emphasized that the quest for women’s rights in Iran is inseparable from the broader struggle against misogyny. She argued that true transformation requires elevating women into leadership roles to redefine power itself. Highlighting the systematic oppression embedded in the regime’s practices, she called for an emancipatory development that dismantles structures of inequality. Her message was clear: by harnessing the strength of collective resistance and insisting on gender parity, Iranian women can overturn decades of repression and build a society founded on justice and equality.

Former French Minister of State Michele Alliot‐Marie issued an uncompromising call to action against Iran’s oppressive regime. “Discrimination against women is enshrined in law and will remain so until the regime changes,” she declared, urging Iranians to rise up. Alliot‐Marie condemned the regime’s nuclear recklessness, stating the government is “creating enriched uranium thirty times above the permitted limit,” and warned that its actions pose “the principal strategic and security challenge in the world.” She stressed that true change “can only come from within” the Iranian people, calling for a bold uprising to dismantle a regime that threatens both regional stability and global peace.

Former Ecuadorian President Rosalía Arteaga Serrano underscored the struggle against Iran’s oppressive regime by lauding Maryam Rajavi’s transformative work. “I really hope to visit free Iran soon,” she declared, expressing solidarity with Iranian women and the opposition led by Mrs. Rajavi. Serrano emphasized that “the women with a vision, led by Maryam Rajavi, can make the difference and can make it possible to reestablish a democratic government in Iran.” She reinforced her support by affirming, “We say no to execution, no to exclusion,” and reiterated her commitment to Mrs. Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan and 12-point human rights framework to restore dignity and liberty in Iran.

Former Finnish Prime Minister Anneli Jäätteenmäki offered a reflective account of the long history of discrimination faced by Iranian women. She detailed the pervasive inequalities in education, employment, legal rights, and political participation, noting that these challenges have persisted for 46 years despite the women’s relentless resistance. Anneli Jäätteenmäki underscored that the protests, particularly those led by women since 2022, are a powerful testament to their determination to secure full social, economic, and political freedoms. Her message was one of hope and urgency, urging both national and international communities to support the struggle for a democratic Iran—a nation where equality and justice prevail for future generations.

Ingrid Betancourt, a former Colombian Senator, honored Iranian women by highlighting their enduring fight against oppression. “There’s no place on earth I would like to celebrate Women’s Day than here,” she declared, lauding the Iranian Resistance for being “the only organization where women are at the core of leadership.” Betancourt recalled a poignant conversation with Maryam Rajavi about the symbolic use of scarves during the Shah’s tyranny, noting, “Two tyrannies working against women.” She underscored Rajavi’s decades-long work—embodied in her enduring 10-point framework—that challenges systemic misogyny and champions human rights. “Love will free Iran,” Betancourt affirmed, emphasizing that the resilience and solidarity of Iranian women can transform not only their nation but the world.

Linda Chavez, former director of the White House Office of Public Liaison, praised the Iranian resistance and Maryam Rajavi for their unwavering leadership. “It is going to come from the people of Iran rising up and choosing their own leader,” she emphasized, stressing that true change cannot come from outside interference. Chavez applauded Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, comparing it to the American Bill of Rights, as a vision that empowers the Iranian people to reclaim their rights. She also expressed hope for a future where the current regime faces accountability, saying, “Next year, I hope we will say that it was not just Assad who fled his country but Khamenei and the mullahs who fled Tehran.”

Italian Senator Elisa Pirro delivered a powerful speech reaffirming Italy’s solidarity with the Iranian people’s fight for democracy, justice, and women’s rights. She condemned the clerical regime in Tehran, describing it as a “fundamentalist regime that has made misogyny a state policy” and continues to suppress fundamental freedoms.

“Iranian women cannot freely choose their clothing, cannot access positions of power, and do not have the same legal rights as men,” Senator Pirro stated. “Yet, despite this oppression, they are at the forefront of the resistance, showing the world that freedom cannot be crushed by violence.” She cited the 2022 uprising, led by women, as proof that “the Iranian people no longer want to live under tyranny.”

Senator Pirro praised NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi and her Ten-Point Plan, calling it “a clear vision for democracy, human rights, and gender equality.” She urged Europe, especially Italy, to stand firmly against the regime’s injustices. “No dictatorship is eternal,” she declared. “The sacrifice of Iranian women and men will not be in vain. Iran’s freedom is a battle for all of us.”

Dominique Attias, Chair of the European Lawyers Foundation, honored imprisoned activist Mariam Akbari Monfared as a symbol of Iranian women’s relentless courage. “She has sacrificed your life for freedom, for Iran,” she declared, recalling Monfared’s over fifteen years behind bars in one of the country’s harshest women’s prisons. A mother of three, Monfared has endured prolonged isolation, extended sentences, and asset confiscation for daring to protest. Attias affirmed, “Nothing will weaken the resistance of women,” highlighting weekly protests—singing, hunger strikes—and the unified struggle against systemic misogyny. She also hailed Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as “a magnificent roadmap towards democracy,” uniting Iranian women of all backgrounds in their fight for liberation.

Former Canadian Conservative Party leader Candice Bergen denounced Iran’s repressive, misogynistic regime and its “Chastity and Hijab mandatory law.” “Iran is a land overflowing with opportunity,” she declared, envisioning a future rebuilt by its resilient people. Citing a major statement that was handed over to Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, Bergen announced that over 650 female leaders from 80 countries—including heads of state, former ministers, and a Nobel laureate—have united in solidarity with Iranian women. “We must pressure international institutions to demand the abolition of these inhumane laws,” she urged, challenging global voices to amplify the message of those risking everything for democracy and human rights. Her remarks called on the international community to stand firmly with Iran’s fighters for a just, liberated future.

Cherie Blair, CBE, president of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, delivered a powerful video message, focusing on the dire struggles of Iranian women. Blair recounted the plight of Maryam Akbari Monfared, emphasizing that she “has been imprisoned for fifteen years because she’s been fighting for accountability” following the tragic loss of her siblings during the massacre of 30,000 political prisoners in 1988. Blair highlighted how the strict enforcement of the hijab and other restrictions strip Iranian women of basic freedoms, even as the 2022 uprising—largely led by women—“shows their strength and determination.” Urging global solidarity, she declared, “Let’s stand with them demanding freedom and equality for all women,” envisioning an Iran where “freedom and justice” prevail.

Baroness O’Loan delivered a powerful tribute to the many murdered and oppressed women of Iran, highlighting the brutal reality of a regime that exploits religious pretexts to justify its cruelty. She recalled the systematic use of executions, torture, and imprisonment as tools to silence dissent and maintain misogynistic rule. By contrasting this dark history with the organized resistance led by Iranian women—especially the courageous fighters in Ashraf—she affirmed that the struggle is not only against oppressive mandates but against a broader system of tyranny. Her address celebrated the enduring spirit of resistance, championing the Ten-Point and Twelve-Point Plan as viable blueprints for replacing dictatorship with a democratic republic based on gender equality and justice.

Theresa Villiers, former UK MP and minister, condemned the Iranian regime, drawing attention to the oppression faced by women in the country. “It is disgraceful that women in Iran are denied so many basic rights,” she stated, referencing the cruel restrictions on marriage, divorce, custody, and inheritance. Highlighting the suffering of women, Villiers remarked, “It is appalling that punishments for domestic violence remain inadequate” and recalled the tragic death of Mahsa Amini. She praised the powerful defiance of the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement, declaring, “These evil men cannot prevail forever,” and expressed unwavering support for the NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan toward a free, democratic Iran.

Former British MP Anna Firth brought an international perspective, passionately condemning the brutal enforcement of Sharia laws that institutionalize the oppression of Iranian women. She stressed that every act of violence, every instance of torture, affects the global community and must not be ignored. Anna Firth lauded Mrs. Rajavi as the bravest Muslim woman championing women’s rights, urging the international community to hold the regime accountable. She called for the referral of the human rights dossier to the UN Security Council and demanded support for NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan as the definitive roadmap toward a free, secular, and democratic Iran. Her call to action emphasized that silence is not an option when human rights are at stake.

Italian Senator Dolores Bevilacqua delivered an impromptu address in Italian, blending personal reflection with national pride. Speaking as a mother and a public servant, she contrasted the freedoms enjoyed in her homeland with the harsh realities faced by Iranian women. Dolores Bevilacqua celebrated the resilience of those fighting for dignity and self-determination, echoing the conference’s rallying cry—“Donna, Resistenza, Libertà” (Woman, Resistance, Freedom). Her heartfelt words reinforced that true liberation comes through unity and the courage to challenge oppression. She urged the audience to carry forward the spirit of the day, reminding everyone that empowering women is essential for building a just and democratic society.

Former UK Shadow Minister for Justice Helen Goodman delivered a blistering critique of Iran’s oppressive policies. “Women in Iran truly are the first victims of the regime,” she declared, highlighting that “for boys, the age of criminal responsibility is 15, but for girls, it’s nine.” Goodman condemned the brutal new hijab law, where defiance can mean “imprisonment for ten years, fines, washing dead bodies in the morgue, or fifty lashes.” Invoking Hannah Arendt’s definition of totalitarianism, she warned that the regime seeks “to dominate every aspect of everyone’s life.” Her impassioned remarks underscored an urgent call for solidarity: “Women, Resistance, Freedom.”

Former Dutch MEP Dorien Rookmaker emphasized both the struggle of Iranian women and the pivotal role of social media in today’s activism. “I’m rather active on social media and I get threats from supporters of the mullahs or even agents of the Shah,” she revealed, urging that decisive engagement online is essential to overcome intimidation. Rookmaker recounted how critics questioned her right to speak on Iran’s governance, to which she firmly responded that the Iranian people must decide their future. She underscored that the only leader capable of organizing a powerful opposition is Maryam Rajavi, praising her as a beacon of hope for a democratic Iran. Her remarks highlighted the transformative power of digital activism and the need for global solidarity in the fight for freedom and equality.

Katja Adler, German MP, passionately voiced her unwavering support for Iranian women in their struggle for freedom. “Courageous Iranian women have proven their will for a life of freedom,” she stated, emphasizing their role as the driving force for change. Adler highlighted that the fight goes beyond personal rights, with women fighting for “a democratic and just future for society.” She strongly condemned the Iranian regime, calling it “a misogynistic regime” and underscoring that the women’s resistance has been crucial in challenging religious dictatorship. “The international community cannot remain indifferent,” she urged, reaffirming her commitment to amplifying the voices of Iranian women across the globe. She concluded by noting that the resistance is evolving, with the slogan shifting from “Women, Life, Freedom” to “Women, Resistance, Freedom”—a powerful statement of defiance.

German MP Sandra Weeser delivered an impassioned address, declaring that “since the tragic death of Jina Mahsa Amini, we in Germany and the entire Western world have a moral obligation” to support those fighting for freedom in Iran. She warned, “lip service is not enough,” calling instead for clear strategies and decisive action. Weeser highlighted that the struggle of Iranian women is not merely an internal affair, noting that “the regime is a threat not only to its own people but also to the entire free world.”

In her speech, Italian MP Naike Gruppioni honored those who have sacrificed everything for freedom and equality. “I want to express my solidarity to the women of the Iranian Resistance,” she declared, paying special tribute to “over a thousand courageous women” in Ashraf 3 in Albania who, despite enduring torture and long years of imprisonment, defend every woman’s right “to choose.” Gruppioni emphasized that these women are not victims but leaders, fighting to dismantle a theocratic dictatorship and build a democratic, secular Iran. She affirmed, “The freedom of Iranian women is also our freedom,” lauding Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as a progressive vision for human rights, gender equality, and democracy, and concluded with: “donne, resistenza e libertà.”

Speaking amid praise for Iranian women’s resilience, Belgian Representative Kathleen Depoorter announced that Belgium’s newly formed coalition has committed to “fundamentally change policy towards Iran.” She vowed to push for the blacklisting of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organization, insisting that the IRGC’s actions “destabilize the Middle East and far beyond.” Depoorter envisioned an Iran where “compulsory hijab and discrimination are abolished” and concluded by urging that “2025 be the year of a free Iran,” underscoring her unwavering support for the nation’s freedom fighters.

Helena Carreiras, former Minister of National Defense of Portugal, honored Iranian women’s unwavering struggle for freedom and justice. She stressed that “nations that neglect women ultimately fail,” emphasizing that the oppression of women harms entire societies. Recalling her own challenges as Portugal’s first female defense minister, Carreiras praised the resolute spirit of Iranian women who have endured nearly half a century of misogynistic brutality. “Resistance is not merely a choice but a necessity,” she declared, lauding the NCRI’s Twelve-Point Plan as a progressive vision for a democratic, egalitarian Iran. Carreiras urged global action to “amplify their voices, raise their flags,” calling on all to defend the fundamental values of freedom and justice.

Edita Tahiri, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo delivered an impassioned address in which she lauded the Iranian people’s enduring struggle for freedom. Speaking to Maryam Rajavi, she declared, “I feel the power of freedom. I feel the power of patriotism that comes from the people of Iran oppressed for so long.” Tahiri emphasized the critical role of women, stating, “Every nation that has empowered women is very strong,” and urged decisive action by remarking, “Get rid of Khamenei and all the wrongdoers.” Drawing on her own experience in Kosovo, she affirmed that unity and visionary leadership—exemplified by Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan—are essential for a free, democratic, secular Iran led by women.

Former British Olympic champion Sharron Davies delivered an impassioned speech on International Women’s Day, championing the rights of Iranian women and athletes. “I’m not a politician, but I’m here because I refuse to see another generation lose out on their dreams,” she declared, recalling the systemic oppression that once deprived young girls of fair competition. Davies highlighted the stark disparity in sports funding, noting that “women’s sport gets only 4% of the money.” Recounting the tragic fate of Iranian volleyball captain Furouzan Abdi—“who could have been me”—she urged global solidarity: “Every sports movement around the world is Furouzan. Keep fighting.” Davies reaffirmed her support for Mrs. Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, envisioning a future where Iranian women lead, compete, and thrive.

Rosa Zaraei, an NCRI supporter and master’s graduate in international politics, delivered a stirring address highlighting Iranian women’s enduring fight for freedom. “For over a century, Iranian women have led movements for independence, democracy, and equality,” she declared, emphasizing that “their defiance is not just an act of protest—it is an assertion of hope, determination, and the fight for a better future.” Zaraei recalled the sacrifices of tens of thousands imprisoned and tortured over the past 46 years, asserting that today “women are not just part of Iran’s resistance, they are its heartbeats.” She lauded Maryam Rajavi’s pivotal leadership and Ten-Point Plan, which she described as “a beacon of hope” ensuring full rights and political participation for women, urging solidarity with the brave resistance units.

Maltese MP Katya de Giovanni, Chair of the Social Affairs Committee, delivered a resolute address in strong support of the Iranian Resistance. She stressed that “this day is not just for passive reflection, but for action,” urging global leaders to stand with the brave women fighting for a future free from tyranny. De Giovanni condemned the regime’s “Chastity and Hijab Law” as a tool of oppression designed “to instill fear” and “destroy lives.” She lauded Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and the NCRI’s vision, emphasizing that her “10 points and 12 plans envision a future free from discrimination, where gender equality prevails and religion is truly separated from the state.” In closing, de Giovanni called on world leaders to “hold the regime accountable for its crimes against humanity” and echoed the rallying cry: “Women, Resistance, Freedom.”

Former Tunisian Minister of Women’s Affairs Sihem Badi delivered an impassioned speech on International Women’s Day, celebrating the strength and resilience of women worldwide. Speaking with deep emotion, she honored the courageous women who, despite facing imprisonment, censorship, and oppression, continue to fight for freedom and justice. “When I saw all these beautiful, intelligent, and militant women, I understood why some men fear us,” she declared. Badi recalled her own years of political exile and paid tribute to the brave women of Iran and beyond who risk everything to defend democracy. She stressed that repression knows no borders, while solidarity is universal, urging everyone to unite their voices so that being a woman becomes a symbol of strength, not a target. “Dictatorships fall, but our struggle for freedom endures.”

Former Spanish Senator Carmen Quintanilla emphasized solidarity with Iranian women on behalf of millions of women in Spain. She praised Mrs. Rajavi as a beacon of hope and a leader who embodies the possibility of a future free from oppression. Carmen Quintanilla recalled the historic uprising following Mahsa Amini’s tragic death, stressing that the struggle for freedom is a shared battle for justice and dignity. She affirmed her commitment to Mrs. Rajavi’s Twelve-Point Plan as a roadmap for democratic reform, urging international unity in amplifying the voices of Iranian women. Her impassioned plea underscored that the cause of Iranian women is a universal fight for human rights.

Former Deputy leader of the Irish Seanad Catherine Noone offered a personal account of political resilience and the power of solidarity, drawing parallels between Ireland’s own journey from oppression to democracy and the current struggle in Iran. She recounted the challenges and gendered abuse faced in Irish politics, emphasizing that support and persistent activism are vital for change. Noone stressed that every supportive voice matters and that sustained international pressure is crucial to hold the Iranian regime accountable. Her message of hope and determination underscored the importance of collective action, urging everyone to contribute to the movement for a free, just, and democratic Iran.

Mahnaz Mohabbatkar, a member of the People’s Mujahideen Organization of Iran, delivered a stirring International Women’s Day address from Ashraf 3. Speaking on behalf of her sisters in the Resistance, she emphasized that despite numerous challenges, the movement’s strength lies in its cohesion and organization. Mohabbatkar stressed that the ultimate political goal is the overthrow of the Iranian regime to establish a democratic Iran where equality is a reality. Drawing inspiration from Maryam Rajavi, she highlighted the importance of collective strength—putting the group’s interest above individual preferences—as the cornerstone of their unified organization.

Mahnaz Farahani, a PMOI member from Ashraf 3, delivered a stirring speech detailing her personal journey from an architecture student to a freedom fighter. “We don’t just need outstanding architects. We need freedom fighters,” she declared, emphasizing that the struggle in Iran is not for mere reforms but for the complete overthrow of a regime that denies basic rights. Farahani painted a stark picture of life under tyranny—where even choosing what to wear or speaking freely is criminalized—and highlighted the courageous role of young women who led the 2022 uprising. “Together we are unstoppable,” she affirmed, urging unity and resilience in the fight for a free Iran.

Iulia Dascalu, a member of the Moldovan Parliament, expressed unwavering solidarity with the Iranian Resistance. She condemned the worsening repression in Iran, noting that many women have been executed under a regime built on misogyny. She stressed that this oppression is not merely a matter of numbers but a grave violation of human lives and freedoms. Dascalu lauded the courageous Iranian women whose decades-long resistance has ignited a movement for equality and democracy. Highlighting Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and her Ten-Point Plan, she urged global support for a future where all Iranians—women and men alike—can live freely and prosperously.

Former president of the European Bar Federation and vice dean of the Polish Bar Association, Izabela Konopacka, emphasized that Iranian women are fighting not for equal pay but for basic human rights: freedom of speech, work, and education. Sharing a personal anecdote about her niece Emma’s innocent question on gender inequality, Konopacka highlighted the absurdity of discrimination. “The struggle for freedom is universal,” she declared, urging European leaders to amplify the voices of Iranian women. Her call to support the resistance is a step toward a freer, more just world for all.

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