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.
Sandra Weeser is a German-French politician of the Free Democratic Party (FDP) who served as a member of the Bundestag from 2017 to 2025.
Sandra Weeser delivered a speech at the IWD 2025 event in Paris, excerpts of which are presented below.
Sandra Weeser: Lip Service Is Not Enough, Action Is Needed
Dear Maryam Rajavi, ladies and gentlemen,
Since the tragic death of Jina Mahsa Amini and the subsequent protests in Iran, we in Germany and across the Western world have a moral obligation. We must support the brave women and men who are fighting for freedom, democracy, and equality.
Mere words are not sufficient. Their protest continually reminds us of the gravity of the situation in Iran and the urgent need for political action. Clear strategies and decisive measures are essential. The brutal oppression of Iranian women has proven to be a grave mistake by the regime.
What began as an attempt to terrorize and subjugate women has transformed into a historic resistance—a resistance for freedom and equality. And the slogan “Woman, Life, Freedom” has now evolved into “Woman, Resistance, Freedom.” As Katja just mentioned, this is a clear sign that these courageous Iranian women will not be stopped.
Beyond the Veil—A Fight for Political Transformation
Iranian women are not merely fighting against compulsory veiling. They are fighting for complete political transformation, for a democratic republic, for the separation of religion and state, and for equal rights in all aspects of life.
However, their struggle is not just an internal issue of Iran. The regime poses a threat not only to its own people but to the entire free world.
A New Iran Policy Is Urgently Needed
If we are truly committed to democracy, human rights, and international stability, we must fundamentally realign our Iran policy. The regime must be treated for what it is—a threat to our free world.
For years, the European Union has imposed sanctions on Iran for severe human rights violations and for supporting terrorism. In fact, Iran is one of the most heavily sanctioned nations in the world. Yet, while the people suffer, the mullahs continue to profit.
A key pillar of the regime’s power is the Revolutionary Guards. They control the economy, finance terrorism, and destabilize the region. And they have long been operating in Europe as well.
A Clear Demand: List the Revolutionary Guards as a Terrorist Organization
That is why I call on the European Council: List the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization. This is not symbolic politics. This is a crucial step to weaken the regime’s power structures.
Standing with Iran’s Women—A Shared Responsibility
The women of Iran are fighting for their freedom. Let us now work together to ensure that their voices are heard and that our actions do justice to their courage.
Thank you.
Woman, Resistance, Freedom!
