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.
Elisa Pirro is an Italian politician. Since March 23, 2018, she has served as a Senator of the Republic for the Five Star Movement.
Elisa Pirro delivered a speech at the IWD 2025 event in Paris, excerpts of which are presented below.
Elisa Pirro: A Global Battle for Freedom
Distinguished members of the National Council of Resistance of Iran,
Esteemed President Rajavi,
It is an honor for me to be here today to reaffirm our support for the struggle of Iranian women—and of the entire Iranian people—for freedom, justice, and democracy.
Today’s Iran symbolizes a battle that concerns us all.
It is ruled by a fundamentalist regime that has made misogyny a state policy and continues to suppress basic freedoms.
Iranian women are denied the freedom to choose their clothing, are barred from positions of power, and do not enjoy equal legal rights with men. And yet, despite this oppression, they stand at the forefront of resistance, showing the world that freedom cannot be crushed by violence.
The Uprising of 2022: A Turning Point
The 2022 uprising, led by women, revealed an undeniable truth: The Iranian people no longer wish to live under tyranny.
The National Council of Resistance of Iran, with President Rajavi at its helm, represents a concrete hope for a different future. Her Ten-Point Plan for a Free Iran offers a clear vision of democracy, human rights, and gender equality.
No Dictatorship Lasts Forever
We firmly believe that every country must pursue a path to freedom grounded in popular sovereignty, the separation of religion and state, and respect for women’s rights.
Europe—Italy in particular—cannot remain silent in the face of such injustice.
History teaches us that no dictatorship is eternal. The sacrifices of Iranian women and men will not be in vain. We will continue to stand with you so that the international community may recognize and support the struggle for the freedom of Iranian women and the entire Iranian people.
Because the freedom of Iran is a battle for the freedom of us all.
And for this, together with you, we say: Woman, Resistance, Freedom.
