NCRI

UK Parliament Hosts Conference in Support of Iranian Women’s Fight for Democracy and Against State Violence

Shamsi Saadati

On November 26, 2024, the UK Parliament hosted a landmark conference titled “Standing with the Women of Iran in the Battle for Democracy and Combating State Violence” to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The event brought together a distinguished group of cross-party lawmakers. Speakers from both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, alongside representatives of the Anglo-Iranian community and the NCRI, underscored the Iranian regime’s systemic repression of women. They voiced strong support for Iranian women’s courageous struggle for democracy, human rights, and justice.

In a keynote message to the conference, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), denounced the clerical regime’s systemic violence and misogyny. “The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is a day to expose the misogynist dictatorship ruling Iran,” Rajavi said. She detailed the regime’s oppressive policies, including the imposition of compulsory hijab by 32 government agencies, the trafficking of impoverished women and girls, and the use of sexual violence as a weapon of control.

Mrs. Rajavi also pointed to the pivotal role of Iranian women in resisting the regime. “The women of Iran are shouting: With the hijab or without it, onwards to the revolution. Their motto is, ‘Women, Resistance, Freedom,’” she declared. She underscored that young women have joined Resistance Units to overthrow the regime, which has escalated repression and executions under the presidency of Massoud Pezeshkian, with nearly 500 executions in just a few months.

In her message, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi urged UK lawmakers to take concrete actions against the Iranian regime. “I expect the honorable UK lawmakers, especially my dear sisters in both houses of Parliament, to protest against the arrests and imprisonment of women protesters in Iran and support their struggle against the regime,” she said. She called for the recognition of the Iranian people’s legitimate fight to overthrow the regime and endorsed the Resistance Units’ battle against the Revolutionary Guards (IRGC). “Governments must no longer delay the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization,” she emphasized, urging international accountability and solidarity with the Iranian people’s quest for democracy.

Azadeh Zabeti, Chair of the Anglo-Iranian Lawyers Committee, opened the conference by highlighting the bravery of Iranian women in their fight for democracy and human rights. She stressed the significance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women in exposing Iran’s state-sanctioned violence and gender-based oppression.

She called for concrete UK action to support Iranian women, condemning the regime’s threats against panelists as a sign of its fear of the Resistance. “We stand firm with the victims in their fight for justice and accountability,” Zabeti affirmed, setting the stage for actionable discussions on advancing democracy in Iran.

Baroness O’Loan‘s speech underscored the moral and strategic imperatives of supporting Iranian women in their fight against tyranny. She highlighted the absence of the rule of law in Iran, describing it as a nation where thousands have faced execution and torture under the clerical regime.

Baroness O’Loan praised Maryam Rajavi‘s leadership, stating, “Her leadership has inspired countless Iranian women to be the force for change in their country.” She emphasized the NCRI’s role as a democratic alternative, which she argued terrifies the regime to the point of orchestrating disinformation campaigns and even a 2018 bombing plot targeting an NCRI gathering in Paris. Baroness O’Loan called on the UK government to take decisive action, including prescribing the IRGC as a terrorist organization and recognizing the Iranian people’s right to self-defense against oppression. “The violence against women in Iran will only end when the regime is replaced by a democratic government. Iranian women are leading this fight, and we will stand with them until Iran is free,” she concluded.

Bob Blackman, Conservative MP for Harrow East and Co-President of the International Committee of Parliamentarians for a Democratic Iran, delivered a passionate speech advocating for firm action against the Iranian regime. He condemned the regime’s systemic oppression of women, including its state-sponsored violence and marginalization. He emphasized the role of Iranian women in spearheading the fight for democracy and human rights. “Women in Iran have stood boldly to demand their absolute rights,” he said, commending their courage and determination.

Blackman strongly criticized the UK government’s inaction in proscribing the IRGC despite years of promises. “Prescribing the IRGC as a terrorist organization is absolutely essential. Our government promised to do this when in opposition—still, we are waiting,” he stated, urging decisive measures such as seizing the IRGC’s assets to benefit the Iranian people. Highlighting the NCRI’s democratic vision, he praised Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and her Ten-Point Plan, emphasizing its promise of free and fair elections for Iran.

He also condemned international appeasement, noting, “This dangerous appeasement has emboldened the regime,” citing the release of convicted Iranian terrorists by the European Union. Blackman called for legal accountability, urging action against the regime’s crimes, including the 1988 massacre, at the International Court of Justice. “If we fail to act, the regime will soon hold the world hostage with a nuclear bomb,” he warned, concluding with a call for Western democracies to stand united with the Iranian people in their fight for freedom and democracy.

Lord David Alton, Co-President of the British Committee for Iran Freedom, delivered a compelling speech emphasizing the courage of Iranian women and the urgent need for decisive international action against Tehran’s regime. Highlighting the double oppression Iranian women face under the misogynistic regime, Lord Alton pointed out their systematic exclusion from leadership and employment opportunities, with women holding only 26% of government jobs.

He praised the resilience of Iranian women, such as Maryam Akbari Monfared, who has spent 15 years in prison for seeking justice for her siblings executed during the 1988 massacre. He celebrated their role in the broader Resistance, stating, “Iranian women, even in the face of lethal violence, reflect the broader determination to secure justice and accountability.” He emphasized the NCRI’s democratic vision, led by Maryam Rajavi, whose Ten-Point Plan guarantees equality and freedom, a vision that terrifies the regime.

He called on the UK government to take action, urging it to proscribe the IRGC and formally recognize the NCRI as the democratic alternative for Iran. “What are they waiting for?” he asked. Lord Alton concluded by highlighting the global implications of Iran’s struggle, calling it “the most crucial geopolitical battle in the Middle East today” and reinforcing the need for solidarity to support the Iranian people in building a free and just republic.

Baroness Verma delivered a passionate call for action, criticizing international institutions like the United Nations and democratic governments for failing to hold oppressive regimes accountable, particularly Iran’s clerical regime. “We all talk a great game, but the delivery part is so, so poor,” she said, emphasizing the need for daily recognition of the violence and subjugation women face under tyrannical regimes like Iran’s. She highlighted the regime’s systemic abuses, including torture, imprisonment, and the denial of basic freedoms for women, such as choice in attire and mobility.

Baroness Verma stressed the urgency of proscribing the IRGC and holding the regime accountable. “It is time that we backed our words with actions,” she stated, calling on parliamentarians worldwide to stand in solidarity with Iranian women and to pressure their governments to act decisively. Praising Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and the NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan for democracy and equality, Verma noted, “If a nation cannot respect its women and girls, it is very poor as a nation.” She urged cross-party collaboration to send a clear message that true democracy and human rights must include everyone, declaring, “It is time we change our narrative and back it with actions.”

Jim Shannon, DUP MP for Strangford, delivered a heartfelt address emphasizing solidarity with the women of Iran and their struggle for freedom. He criticized international inaction in the face of Iran’s atrocities, including the 1988 massacre of political prisoners, stating that such failures have emboldened the regime. He called for decisive action, urging the UK government to proscribe the IRGC as a terrorist organization and to recognize the NCRI as the legitimate voice of the Iranian people. Praising the NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan as a “blueprint for freedom, justice, and equality,” Shannon declared, “The right strategy and moral stance is to stand with the women of Iran in their pursuit of justice and a brighter future.”

He concluded with a powerful message of hope, expressing belief in a future where Iran is free, democratic, and just. “The day will come for a freer Iran—with freedom, liberty, and democracy,” he said, saluting the strength and determination of Iranian women.

Councilor Robert Ward added his voice to the conference with a critique of decades-long inaction by global governments in addressing the Iranian regime’s atrocities. “Over four decades, governments of all stripes have found an excuse not to do anything,” he said, condemning the appeasement policies that have repeatedly failed to moderate the regime’s behavior.

Ward emphasized the malign influence of the Iranian regime, both domestically and globally, citing its support for Hezbollah and other groups causing widespread human misery. “The Iranian regime is the most malign influence on the world,” he stated, calling the UK’s recent asset freezes on Iran Air and Iran’s Shipping Organization a small but insufficient step. Urging stronger action, Ward declared, “It’s in the interests of the people of Iran, the women of Iran, and the UK government to take action now.” He concluded with a plea for decisive measures, hoping that future discussions would reflect actions taken rather than unfulfilled calls for change.

Lord Spellar, Labour member of the House of Lords and former Minister of Defense, delivered a decisive speech urging a firmer stance against the Iranian regime. He condemned Tehran’s systemic oppression of women and minorities and its destabilizing activities across the region. “The regime is waging war not just against women at home but against its citizens and others abroad, spreading death, destruction, and misery,” Lord Spellar declared, emphasizing the urgency of isolating the regime politically, diplomatically, and economically.

He criticized the West’s conciliatory approach, warning that expecting the regime to reform through diplomacy alone is futile. “Hoping that diplomacy alone will convince the regime to give up its tyranny is tantamount to expecting it to commit institutional suicide,” he argued. Instead, he advocated for a strategy of pressure and isolation until the regime changes or is replaced by the Iranian people. Highlighting the critical role of the NCRI as a viable democratic alternative, Lord Spellar emphasized, “There is no doubt that the UK must prefer a free, democratic, and non-nuclear Iran over this religious tyranny.”

Calling for concrete measures, he urged the UK government to proscribe the IRGC as a terrorist organization and impose sanctions on Supreme Leader Khamenei. “The IRGC acts as a private army for repression at home and as an exporter of terrorism and organized crime abroad,” he stated.

Dowlat Nowruzi, the NCRI Representative in the UK, delivered a powerful call for accountability and international action against the Iranian regime. Highlighting the regime’s crimes, Nowruzi stated, “This regime is not only the main enemy of humanity, justice, and democracy in Iran, but it is an ultimate threat to the global community.” She emphasized that the Iranian regime uses executions as a tool of repression, with nearly 500 people executed within 100 days of the new president taking office, including 17 women. “This has always been the regime’s main policy, supported by its IRGC, which is the main pillar of its survival,” she said.

Nowruzi called for concrete measures, including blacklisting the IRGC as a terrorist organization, reactivating the snapback mechanism for UN sanctions, and prosecuting Iranian leaders for crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court. “Millions of Iranian people, especially courageous women, are risking their lives to demand justice and a democratic future,” she declared, urging international solidarity to support the Iranian people’s fight for freedom.

Baroness Foster delivered a pointed critique of both international institutions and Western leadership in addressing Iran’s actions and supporting its people. She emphasized the failure of the United Nations to confront Tehran’s systemic abuses. “The UN is going to be one of the biggest challenges,” she said, pointing out the absurdity of allowing Iran’s representatives to chair human rights groups while their regime violates those very principles.

Baroness Foster called for practical actions, including sanctions on the regime in Iran and a ban on Iran Air flights into the UK and other countries. She also urged the UK to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization, dismissing government arguments about keeping “backdoor communication” open.

She criticized weak Western leadership for lifting sanctions and enabling Iran’s access to billions of dollars, which she said has fueled instability. “We now need some action,” she said. “There are solutions, but they are very difficult indeed.”

Lord Dholakia reiterated his long-standing support for human rights and democracy in Iran, emphasizing his collaboration with Maryam Rajavi and the NCRI. Reflecting on his participation in the Free Iran gathering in Paris earlier this year, Lord Dholakia praised Mrs. Rajavi’s 10-Point Plan, calling it “a beacon of hope” for a democratic Iran. He highlighted the bravery of Resistance Units inside Iran, noting their willingness to risk torture and death to challenge the regime.

He condemned the regime’s misplaced priorities, such as spending on the IRGC and nuclear ambitions while neglecting citizens’ welfare. Referencing protests by retired teachers, mostly women, he said, “The regime prioritizes its terrorist proxies over the basic needs of its people.” Lord Dholakia also criticized the new president’s record, stating, “500 executions since August 2024 show the regime’s continued brutality.”

Urging the UK government to adopt a firm policy, he called for the IRGC to be proscribed as a terrorist organization and for the regime’s atrocities to be referred to the UN Security Council. “This failed policy must change to shift the balance of power in favor of the people, the women, and the NCRI,” he declared, advocating support for the Iranian Resistance as the pathway to a democratic republic.

Doctor Leyla Hannbeck, a fellow of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and former Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate, delivered an impassioned speech drawing from her personal experiences as an Iranian-born woman. Recalling her imprisonment as a child alongside her mother under the mullahs’ regime, she highlighted the courage and defiance of Iranian women in the face of one of the world’s most brutal regimes. “The mullah regime of Iran is truly scared of women. They are truly scared of girls,” she said, emphasizing the transformative power of Iranian women in driving change.

Dr. Hannbeck praised the resilience of Iranian women, who, despite the regime’s violence—including shooting protesters in the eyes—continue to risk their lives for freedom. She urged the UK and other democracies to take decisive action. “As a country that is pioneering and championing democracy, we need to back these women who are putting their lives at risk,” she stated. Dr. Hannbeck called for tangible actions, not just words, to support Iranian women in their fight for justice and democracy. “The women of Iran have demonstrated they’re ready to achieve change. We just need to back them and allow them to get there,” she concluded.

Lord Hacking, a Labour member of the House of Lords, expressed his admiration for the courage and resilience of Iranian women, particularly under the oppressive regime in Tehran. “It’s very fitting that we recognize the courage and endurance of Iranian women at this meeting,” he stated, highlighting their role in resisting the regime’s widespread brutality. Lord Hacking also commended Maryam Rajavi for her leadership and the work of the NCRI, describing her vision of a provisional government transitioning to a democratic assembly as an inspiring plan for Iran’s future.

He underscored the regime’s role as a global threat, actively supporting terrorist groups, and condemned its systemic policies of repression, particularly against women. “We all know the wickedness of the current Iran regime,” he said, emphasizing the need for coordinated opposition.

In addition to praising the NCRI, Lord Hacking proposed the creation of a “government in waiting” to provide a clear and credible alternative to the current regime. “This will provide enormous support for the people in Iran if we can identify a respectable grouping of people ready to take over from this terrible regime,” he argued. His call for a defined opposition framework underscored the importance of offering hope and structure to the Iranian people in their fight for freedom.

Lord Maurice Morrow shared a candid reflection on his growing awareness of the atrocities committed by the Iranian regime, expressing alignment with the statements made during the meeting. “I have listened to something quite horrific and horrendous,” he admitted, acknowledging that he had not fully grasped the extent of the struggles faced by the Iranian people, particularly women, prior to engaging with the British Committee for Iran Freedom.

Calling the situation in Iran “repulsive” and likely “an understatement,” Lord Morrow emphasized the urgency of action over continued dialogue. “There comes a time in the affairs of man when talking has to stop, and something has to happen,” he stated, urging stronger and more decisive measures. “We all seem to know what needs to be done, but it’s time to insist on it being done.” Lord Morrow concluded with a call for collective resolve to move beyond words and take concrete action in support of the Iranian people.

Sir Roger Gale, Conservative MP for Herne Bay and Sandwich, delivered a powerful speech emphasizing the urgency of supporting Iran’s women and girls in their fight for democracy. Praising their courage, Sir Gale remarked, “The most minor demonstrations of freedom and democracy have been repressed, up to and including repression by execution. This is completely unacceptable in what is supposed to be a civilized world.”

Sir Gale criticized the continued failure of the UK government to proscribe the IRGC as a terrorist organization, stating, “It is way beyond time that that was done.” He also expressed strong support for Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, describing it as “a democratic and achievable road map to democracy.” Sir Gale urged for Rajavi to be formally invited to the UK to present her case, emphasizing her role as a democrat and leader of the NCRI.

Concluding with a message of solidarity, the British MP reassured the NCRI and Iranian women that UK parliamentarians stand with them. “We believe the women and girls of Iran have a right to enjoy the same democracy that we enjoy, and we shall go on working for it for as long as it takes,” he affirmed.

William Powell, former Welsh Senator, delivered a reflective speech emphasizing solidarity with Iranian women and the urgent need for action against gender-based violence. He highlighted the plight of countless Iranian women who have suffered under the regime.

Acknowledging the strong cross-party collaboration evident in the session, Powell commended the involvement of both new and seasoned UK parliamentarians, including representatives from Northern Ireland and Wales. “It’s great to hear a Celtic voice from Northern Ireland, and I pledge to do whatever I can in the Welsh campaign and cross-party group in the Senate,” he stated, reaffirming his commitment to the cause. Powell concluded with a call for decisive action: “The time for talking alone has passed. We need to commit ourselves to further action to support the women of Iran and their fight for freedom.”

Neda Zabeti, a law student and women’s rights activist spoke passionately about the plight of the Iranian people and the need for immediate action. “I am here for two very simple reasons: I am a woman, and I am a supporter of democracy,” she began, emphasizing the nonnegotiable demands of the Iranian people: the removal of the regime, respect for fundamental freedoms, economic stability, and an end to the regime’s global sponsorship of terrorism.

Highlighting the 1988 massacre of 30,000 political prisoners, recently classified as genocide by Dr. Javaid Rehman, she called this a “turning point” for justice. Zabeti criticized Western governments for their inaction, asking, “At what point is it enough people for the British government to finally do something?” She stressed the regime’s global threats, from supporting terrorism in the Middle East to providing drones and missiles to Russia. “Talk is cheap,” she declared, urging decisive action, including blacklisting the IRGC and ending appeasement. She concluded with a resolute message: “Freedom is in sight, but it is our responsibility to accelerate its arrival.”

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