On November 27, 2024, a pivotal conference was held in Paris, gathering prominent French parliamentarians, political leaders, and human rights advocates to address the urgent need for a democratic transition in Iran. Organized by the Parliamentary Committee for a Democratic Iran, the event highlighted regime change as a crucial step toward resolving the broader crises of terrorism and instability in the Middle East.
Keynote Address by Maryam Rajavi
Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), delivered a powerful keynote speech outlining a comprehensive plan to dismantle the current regime’s oppressive hold on Iran and support a free, democratic future. She criticized the global political community for neglecting the Iranian Resistance and called for decisive action against the regime’s terrorism and human rights abuses. “On five occasions over the past 15 years, the majority of French parliamentarians have expressed their support for the Iranian Resistance,” Rajavi stated. She emphasized that ignoring this movement constitutes a significant political blunder.
Mrs. Rajavi detailed the NCRI’s platform, which prioritizes gender equality, autonomy for ethnic minorities, and a secular, non-nuclear Iran that promotes peace in the Middle East. She also highlighted the human toll of inaction, noting that over 850 executions have been carried out in Iran this year alone. “Granting impunity to this regime of execution and massacre perpetuates its reign of terror,” she asserted. Rajavi urged European nations to adopt firm policies against the regime, including designating the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
Support from French Parliamentarians
André Chassaigne, French MP and President of the GDR group, emphasized the importance of supporting the Iranian Resistance and praised Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as a roadmap for a free Iran. “It is imperative that we recognize their bravery and the people’s natural right to resist oppression,” he added.
Bruno Macé, Mayor of Villiers-Adam, highlighted local leaders’ strong support for the Iranian Resistance. He announced that 650 mayors across France backed an appeal titled “No to Executions in Iran,” citing alarming statistics from Amnesty International regarding executions in Iran.
MP Christine Arrighi spoke about her personal connection to Iranian women’s struggles, expressing admiration for their bravery. “When I see these women standing up… I see my own daughter,” she shared emotionally.
Dominique Attias, President of the Board of Directors of the European Lawyers Foundation, passionately addressed systemic violence against women in Iran. She called for decisive action to release political prisoners like Maryam Akbari Monfared.
Hervé Saulignac, Vice President of the Parliamentary Committee for a Democratic Iran, denounced human rights violations by the regime and reaffirmed support for the Iranian Resistance. He emphasized that public executions are tools of terror used by an oppressive regime.
Jean-François Legaret, President of the Middle East Studies Foundation (FEMO), praised French parliamentarians for their unwavering support of the Iranian Resistance. He noted that public executions have risen significantly under the current president.
Jean-Pierre Brard, former French MP, emphasized solidarity with the Iranian Resistance and warned against compromises with the regime. He affirmed that it is not just about PMOI but about giving Iranians their right to self-determination.
Philippe Gosselin, French MP and Vice President of the Parliamentary Committee for a Democratic Iran, reiterated support for a free Iran while condemning brutal repression by the regime.
Senator Samantha Cazebonne shared her admiration for Iranian women’s resilience and promised to bring their voices into legislative discussions. Senator Vincent Louault echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that liberation from oppression is essential for Iran’s future stability.
The conference concluded with a unified call for international accountability regarding human rights violations in Iran. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Iranian people’s quest for democracy and freedom as essential not only for Iran but also for regional stability.
