On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the Women’s Committee of the National Council of Resistance of Iran hosted a conference to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD 2025). The event gathered distinguished political leaders, human rights advocates, and supporters of the Iranian Resistance from over 80 countries.
Naike Gruppioni is an Italian politician, serving as a deputy since 13 October 2022. She is a member of the Foreign Relations Committee.
Naike Gruppioni delivered a speech at the IWD 2025 event in Paris, excerpts of which are presented below.
Naike Gruppioni: Honoring the Women Who Sacrificed for Freedom
Dear friends, dear President Rajavi,
On the eve of International Women’s Day, I wish to pay tribute to all the women who have sacrificed their lives for freedom and equality. A special thought goes to the Iranian women who have been courageously fighting for their rights for years, willing to pay any price.
Solidarity with the Women of the Iranian Resistance
As a liberal Western woman, I deeply believe in the principles of individual freedom and equality. For this reason, I want to express my solidarity with the women of the Iranian Resistance—especially the more than a thousand brave women in Ashraf-3 in Albania. These are Muslim women who wear the veil and staunchly defend every woman’s right to choose. Many of them have endured torture and long years of imprisonment—first under the Shah and then under the mullahs’ regime.
A Struggle for Freedom and Democracy
Yet their goal has never changed: freedom and democracy for their country. These women are not victims—they are leaders. They are at the forefront of the struggle to overthrow a theocratic dictatorship and build a democratic and secular Iran.
The Free World Must Stand with Them
We in the free world must support them through every political and institutional means. Change is already underway, and the voice of this revolution is that of Mrs. Maryam Rajavi. Her leadership has ignited hope and charted a clear path toward a future free from oppression. Her ten-point plan represents a progressive vision based on human rights, gender equality, and democracy.
Women: The Backbone of the Resistance
The central role of women in this resistance is not an exception—it is an established reality. Behind every initiative, behind every action in this struggle, there are determined, capable women ready to sacrifice themselves for the future of their nation.
The Fight for Iranian Women Is a Fight for Global Freedom
The freedom of Iranian women is also our freedom. If we want a world where no woman is forced into silence, submission, or fear, then we must support this battle.
Celebrating Courage, Honoring the Future
Today, we celebrate women around the world, but above all, we honor those who continue to fight—because their courage is the hope of a free future for all.
I conclude, dear friends, by extending my best wishes for our celebration in three words: Women, Resistance, and Freedom.
