Under the auspices of Ms. Lucia Vuolo, a Member of the European Parliament from Italy, the European Parliament in Brussels hosted a session titled “Advancing Human Rights: Supporting Iranian Women and Youth in the Pursuit of Freedom and Democracy.” Notable speakers included Members of the European Parliament Gianna Gancia, Stefania Zambelli, and Maria Angela Danzì, all representing Italy, along with representatives of Iranian resistance associations in Italy.
Chairing the session, MEP Lucia Vuolo extended a warm welcome, stressing the significance of the gathering and her eagerness to engage in discussions on the Iranian Resistance and the struggle against authoritarianism. She emphasized the importance of providing a platform for Iranian association representatives in Italy to share their experiences, expressing surprise at the extent of censorship obscuring the reality of repression in Iran.
MEP Gianna Gancia, in her address, highlighted her longstanding engagement with the Iranian Resistance and her numerous meetings with Mrs. Maryam Rajavi and her admiration for its resilience, particularly emphasizing the role of women. She urged European governments to take concrete steps in support of the Iranian Resistance.
MEP Stefania Zambelli shared her perspective, acknowledging her reliance on various sources for insights into Iran. She stressed the importance of staying informed about conditions in Iran and providing space for Iranian associations in parliamentary discussions.
Reflecting on her activism, MEP Maria Angela Danzì urged Europe to maintain impartial vigilance regarding developments in Iran and adopt an independent policy.
Dr. Khosro Nikzad, representing the Association of Democratic Physicians and Pharmacists in Italy, emphasized the imperative of removing the clerical regime for regional and global peace and security. He advocated for recognizing the Iranian people’s legitimate right to self-defense and presented statistical data illustrating the alarming rise in executions in Iran.
Ghazal Afshar, representing the Democratic Youth Association in Italy, paid tribute to the sacrifices made by Iranians in the fight for freedom and criticized individuals distorting the movement’s purpose.
Esmaeil Mohadeth, representing the Iranian Graduates and Professionals Society in Italy, highlighted widespread international support for the Iranian Resistance, emphasizing its commitment to sovereignty and economic development.
Dr. Youssef Lesani, from the Free and Democratic Iran Association in Italy, outlined the association’s objectives during the uprising and condemned ongoing human rights violations in Iran.
Dr. Virginia Pishbin, representing the Iranian Youth Association in Italy, expressed her desire to see the oppressive regime overthrown and highlighted the recognition of Iranian women in the resistance movement.
Ali Afshar concluded the session by commemorating the martyrs of Iran’s freedom struggle, symbolizing the sacrifices made by Iranians in their quest for freedom.
