In a compelling meeting titled “Championing Change: Supporting the Journey of Iranian Women,” Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), human rights activists, and representatives of various European women’s and youth associations gathered to discuss the pressing issue of women’s rights in Iran, one year after the vast protests that swept the streets of Iran, with women at the forefront. The event, held on April 9, 2024, was a significant platform for addressing the challenges faced by Iranian women under a repressive regime and exploring avenues for international support.

The meeting was spearheaded by Mrs. Radka Maxová, a Member of the European Parliament from the Czech Republic, representing the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats (S&D) and serving as the Vice-Chair of the EP FEMM Committee.

In her opening remarks, Mrs. Maxová welcomed the attendees and underscored the critical nature of the discussion, particularly considering the ongoing protests by Iranian women and girls fighting for their rights and a brighter future.

“Thank you for joining us for a timely discussion on what the EU and we in this parliament should do to support the brave women and girls of Iran who are protesting for their rights and a better future,” Maxová began. She highlighted the brutal regime’s domestic repression, deeply rooted in misogyny, against which Iranian women are courageously standing.

Maxová painted a grim picture of the current situation in Iran, where women and girls, who make up over half of the population, are treated as second-class citizens. Citing a report from the UN Special Rapporteur for Iran, she noted the alarming rate of executions, including those of women and juvenile offenders, with over 853 executions carried out last year, the highest number since 2015. The UN fact-finding mission also reported on institutional discrimination and gender-based violence against women and girls, particularly in the context of the recent protests.

Despite these challenges, Iranian women continue to protest fearlessly and lead the charge for a democratic republic.

Maxová called for increased efforts to end impunity in Iran by ensuring that those responsible for human rights violations are prosecuted under existing UN mechanisms.

The meeting saw participation from various European countries, with representatives from women’s and youth associations in France, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg. Their presence underscored the solidarity and support from European civil society for the Iranian women’s struggle.

The gathering not only highlighted the dire situation in Iran but also showcased the resilience and determination of Iranian women. It served as a powerful reminder of the international community’s role in supporting their journey towards freedom and equality.