On February 22, 2025, Paris hosted the international conference, “Women, the Driving Force of Change – Free Iran 2025,” bringing together a distinguished gathering of global leaders, human rights advocates, and activists. Taking place in the lead-up to International Women’s Day, the conference aimed to shed light on decades of systematic oppression in Iran while emphasizing the urgent need for democratic transformation and gender equality.

The event featured compelling speeches that underscored the courage of Iranian women, who have continuously fought for freedom despite enduring oppressive laws, such as mandatory hijab, religious coercion, and political marginalization. High-profile figures, including former government officials, sitting parliamentarians, women’s rights activists, and international dignitaries, called for decisive global action to hold Iran’s regime accountable. The conference concluded with a united demand for immediate and transformative global intervention.

The keynote speaker, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), delivered a powerful address, honoring the countless Iranian women who have fought for freedom. She emphasized that resistance against forced hijab, religious imposition, and autocratic rule is, at its core, a battle for human dignity. Mrs. Rajavi chronicled the Iranian people’s unrelenting struggle spanning more than four decades, marked by imprisonment, torture, and executions. She warned that the regime’s reliance on religious fascism, coupled with its nuclear ambitions, cannot outlast the unwavering determination of the Iranian people. Her words served as an impassioned call for a future where Iranian women spearhead the movement towards democracy and freedom.

Sarvenaz Chitsaz, Chair of the NCRI Women’s Committee, reinforced that the fight for women’s rights in Iran is deeply intertwined with the broader struggle against institutionalized misogyny. She stressed that genuine change requires elevating women into leadership roles to dismantle long-standing power structures of oppression. By highlighting the systematic discrimination embedded in the regime’s laws and policies, she called for a revolutionary shift that empowers women to take their rightful place in shaping Iran’s democratic future.

Former French Minister of State Michèle Alliot-Marie delivered a resolute call to action against Iran’s oppressive government. “Discrimination against women is written into law, and it will remain so until this regime is overthrown,” she declared, urging the Iranian people to rise up. She denounced the regime’s nuclear recklessness, noting its uranium enrichment levels exceed permitted limits by thirtyfold, thereby posing a major global security threat. Emphasizing that true change can only be driven by the Iranian people, she called for a bold and decisive uprising to dismantle the regime and restore regional and international stability.

Former Ecuadorian President Rosalía Arteaga Serrano expressed admiration for Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and vision, stating, “I truly hope to visit a free Iran soon.” She emphasized that Iranian women, under Rajavi’s leadership, have the power to reclaim their rights and reinstate democracy. Highlighting her unwavering support, Serrano rejected all forms of repression, asserting, “We say no to execution, no to exclusion,” and endorsed Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as a comprehensive framework for securing justice and freedom in Iran.

Former Finnish Prime Minister Anneli Jäätteenmäki provided a historical overview of the systemic discrimination Iranian women have faced. She detailed persistent inequalities in education, employment, and political participation, noting that despite over four decades of oppression, Iranian women have remained steadfast in their resistance. She pointed to the widespread protests since 2022, particularly those led by women, as proof of their determination to achieve full social and political rights. Jäätteenmäki urged both national and international communities to rally behind Iranian women in their pursuit of a just and democratic society.

Former Colombian Senator Ingrid Betancourt paid tribute to the resilience of Iranian women, stating, “There is no better place to celebrate Women’s Day than here.” She praised the Iranian Resistance for being an organization where women hold central leadership roles. Reflecting on a conversation with Maryam Rajavi, she recalled how both the Shah’s and the current regime have worked against women, underscoring Rajavi’s enduring commitment to fighting misogyny. She concluded her speech with a powerful statement: “Love will free Iran,” emphasizing that the solidarity and resilience of Iranian women have the potential to transform the nation and beyond.

Linda Chavez, former Director of the White House Office of Public Liaison, commended the Iranian Resistance and Maryam Rajavi for their steadfast leadership. She highlighted that lasting change in Iran must come from within, led by its people. Drawing parallels between Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan and the American Bill of Rights, Chavez expressed hope that in the near future, Iran’s leaders will be held accountable. “Next year, I hope to say that not only Assad but also Khamenei and the mullahs have fled Tehran,” she remarked.

Dominique Attias, Chair of the European Lawyers Foundation, honored imprisoned activist Maryam Akbari Monfared, highlighting her sacrifice for Iran’s freedom. She described the activist’s fifteen years of imprisonment under brutal conditions, reinforcing that Iranian women’s resistance remains unbroken. Attias hailed Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as “a magnificent roadmap towards democracy” and emphasized that Iranian women, through their collective struggle, will bring about transformative change.

Former 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.

Check out Simay Azadi’s interview with @CandiceBergen_ on the sidelines of the conference in Paris on the #IWD2025 #FreeIran2025 pic.twitter.com/zau07G8IUA

— SIMAY AZADI TV (@en_simayazadi) February 24, 2025

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.

In a powerful statement, over 650 women leaders from 80 countries, condemned Iran’s misogynist regime, hailed the struggle of brave Iranian women and girls, and supported @Maryam_Rajavi‘s ten-points plan. @CandiceBergen_ presented this to Mrs. Rajavi on Feb. 22. pic.twitter.com/Cd9m3VnXiO

— SIMAY AZADI TV (@en_simayazadi) February 25, 2025

Cherie Blair, CBE, president of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, delivered a compelling video message addressing the dire conditions Iranian women face. She shared the story of Maryam Akbari Monfared, who has been imprisoned for 15 years after fighting for accountability over the massacre of 30,000 political prisoners in 1988. Blair stressed how women in Iran suffer under strict hijab enforcement and other restrictions but remain resilient, as shown in the 2022 uprising. She urged global solidarity for freedom and equality for all women, envisioning a future of justice in Iran.

Baroness O’Loan offered a tribute to the countless women murdered or oppressed by the Iranian regime. She condemned the use of executions, torture, and imprisonment as tools of political control and highlighted the role of Iranian women, particularly the brave fighters in Ashraf, in challenging this tyranny. O’Loan emphasized the Ten-Point and Twelve-Point Plans as frameworks for a future Iran based on democracy and gender equality.

Theresa Villiers, former UK MP, criticized the Iranian regime for the oppression of women, pointing out the cruel restrictions on marriage, divorce, and inheritance. She condemned the inadequate response to domestic violence and mourned the death of Mahsa Amini. Villiers praised the strength of the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement and expressed full support for the NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan for a democratic Iran.

Anna Firth, former UK MP, condemned the brutal enforcement of Sharia laws in Iran, emphasizing their impact on the global community. She called for the regime’s accountability and supported Maryam Rajavi as the leader who can unite opposition for a free and democratic Iran. Firth also urged the referral of the Iranian human rights dossier to the UN Security Council.

🏊‍♀️Amazing speech by ⁦@sharrond62⁩ at ⁦@iran_policy⁩ conference for #InternationalWoman’sDay. Such a national treasure.🇬🇧 pic.twitter.com/yfklYFGyGr

— Anna Firth (@Anna_Firth) February 22, 2025

Italian Senator Dolores Bevilacqua spoke passionately in Italian, expressing her pride in Italy’s freedoms and contrasting them with the plight of Iranian women. She honored the resilience of those fighting for dignity and self-determination, echoing the conference’s rallying cry, “Donna, Resistenza, Libertà” (Woman, Resistance, Freedom), and urged continued global solidarity to empower women in the fight for justice.

Viva la donna, viva la resistenza, viva la libertà ✌️ https://t.co/eXr5g09Asz

— Dolores Bevilacqua (@DoBevilacqua) February 23, 2025

Helen Goodman, former UK Shadow Minister for Justice, sharply criticized Iran’s oppressive policies, especially the new hijab law and the harsh punishment for defiance. She warned of the regime’s totalitarian aims and called for global solidarity to stand against the oppression of women in Iran.

Dorien Rookmaker, former Dutch MEP, shared her personal experience of threats related to her support for Iranian women’s rights and urged more decisive online activism. She emphasized Maryam Rajavi as the leader capable of organizing a strong opposition and advocated for the global support of NCRI’s Ten-Point Plan.

In Parijs op de PMOI vrouwen-conferentie, De Britse delegatie o.l.v. de Baroness O’Loan, lid van het House of Lords, vertellen dat de Britse regering het IRGC op de zwarte lijst, de lijst voor terroristische organisaties heeft gezet. Nu Nederland nog. ⁦@MinPres⁩ pic.twitter.com/H9LMqDKFTm

— Dorien Rookmaker (@RookmakerDorien) February 22, 2025

Katja Adler, German MP, voiced her strong support for Iranian women, emphasizing that their struggle goes beyond personal rights and is a fight for a democratic and just future. She condemned the Iranian regime’s misogyny and reinforced the international community’s responsibility to support Iranian resistance.

Sandra Weeser, German MP, stressed that Iran’s fight for freedom is a global issue, warning that the Iranian regime poses a threat beyond its borders. She called for concrete actions in response to the repression of women.

Naike Gruppioni, Italian MP, honored those who have sacrificed for freedom, particularly the women in Ashraf 3 in Albania, and reiterated her support for Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan for a democratic, secular Iran.

Watch Simay Azadi’s interview with @naike_gruppioni at the Paris conference for International Women’s Day 2025. A powerful voice for freedom in Iran. #FreeIran2025 pic.twitter.com/2BNlrXDMqh

— SIMAY AZADI TV (@en_simayazadi) February 25, 2025

Kathleen Depoorter, Belgian Representative, announced Belgium’s commitment to changing its policy toward Iran, including blacklisting the IRGC as a terrorist organization. She envisioned an Iran free from compulsory hijab laws and discrimination, urging action toward a free Iran in 2025.

Helena Carreiras, former Minister of National Defense of Portugal, honored the Iranian women’s struggle for freedom, underscoring the global importance of empowering women. She supported the NCRI’s Twelve-Point Plan for a democratic, egalitarian Iran.

Edita Tahiri, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Deputy Prime Minister of Kosovo, praised the Iranian people’s struggle for freedom, particularly the role of women. She emphasized the need to remove Khamenei and all oppressors for a free, democratic, and secular Iran.

Sharron Davies, former British Olympic champion, championed Iranian women’s rights, particularly in sports, urging solidarity for women’s dreams. She reiterated support for Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, envisioning a future where Iranian women lead and thrive.

Hear a powerful excerpt from @sharrond62’s moving speech in support of the brave Resistance Units and her sisters in Iran. She honors Froozan Abdi, captain of Iran’s national volleyball team, who gave her life for freedom in the #1988Massacre. #WomenForce4Change pic.twitter.com/4ctEHP4GIg

— SIMAY AZADI TV (@en_simayazadi) February 22, 2025

Rosa Zaraei, NCRI supporter, emphasized that Iranian women have long led the fight for independence and equality. She lauded Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and the Ten-Point Plan as the path to equality and democracy in Iran.

Katya de Giovanni, Maltese MP, called for action, urging global leaders to support Iranian women in their fight for freedom. She condemned the regime’s oppressive laws and reaffirmed her commitment to the NCRI’s vision for a future based on gender equality and justice.

Sihem Badi, former Tunisian Minister of Women’s Affairs, celebrated the resilience of women worldwide and honored the courage of Iranian women, urging solidarity for a future free from oppression.

Carmen Quintanilla, former Spanish Senator, emphasized solidarity with Iranian women, praising Maryam Rajavi as a leader for a future free from oppression. She expressed full support for the NCRI’s Twelve-Point Plan as a roadmap for democratic reform.

Catherine Noone, former Irish deputy leader, shared her experiences with political resilience, emphasizing that sustained activism and international pressure are crucial to hold the Iranian regime accountable for its oppression of women.

Excerpts from my speech in Paris about Human Rights abuses in Iran & our own Irish record on human rights

It was a conference focused on Iran. Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Libya are also horrific places to be a woman

Full speech: https://t.co/ceQlslXz5s#WomenForce4Change pic.twitter.com/L0q2ejZs3v

— Catherine Noone (@catherineanoone) February 24, 2025

Mahnaz Mohabbatkar, a member of the PMOI, emphasized the importance of unity and organization in the Iranian resistance, stressing the goal of overthrowing the regime for a democratic and equal Iran.

Mahnaz Farahani, PMOI member, highlighted the importance of the fight for freedom, not just reforms, in Iran. She praised the role of young women in the 2022 uprising and called for unity in the struggle for a free Iran.

Iulia Dascalu, Moldovan Parliament member, condemned the Iranian regime for its repression, particularly against women, and emphasized the importance of global solidarity. She supported Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and Ten-Point Plan for a future of freedom.

Izabela Konopacka, former president of the European Bar Federation, emphasized the importance of fighting for basic human rights, particularly for Iranian women, and called on European leaders to amplify their voices in support of the resistance.