Two Italian municipalities recently held public events highlighting the struggles of women and political prisoners in Iran, coinciding with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Local officials and civil society leaders spoke out against ongoing repression under Iran’s clerical regime.

In Spoltore, the event “Women’s Voices for Peace” featured Shahid Sho’leh from the Association of Iranian Democratic Women in Italy, who shared harrowing stories of Maryam Akbari Monfared, imprisoned for 15 years with extended detention despite completing her sentence, and Hengameh Haj Hassan, who endured harsh imprisonment and physical abuse. Sho’leh emphasized that the courage of Iranian women continues to inspire the fight for freedom.

Officials in attendance included Francesca Asborja, mayoral advisor on equality, and Cinzia Renzentini, head of the municipal equality commission.

In Savigliano, a parallel event at the historic Taffini Hall, organized with the Pantarei Cultural Association, expressed solidarity with Iran’s human rights movement and endorsed Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan. The program drew participation from local and regional officials, representatives from 36 municipalities, and human rights committees, highlighting strong support for political prisoners at risk of execution.