On Saturday, February 21, 2026, on the eve of March 8, International Women’s Day, the NCRI Women’s Committee hosted an international conference in Paris entitled “Women’s Leadership: An Imperative for a Free Iran and a Democratic Republic.” The conference, attended by women legislators, academics, thinkers, and prominent political figures, focused on women’s political participation and leadership as a decisive element in a democratic society. Rosalía Arteaga Serrano, former President of Ecuador (1997), attended this conference and delivered a speech. The full text is provided below.
Rosalía Arteaga Serrano: Separation of Religion and State: A Fundamental Principle
Good afternoon, dear ladies, dear Madame Rajavi, dear colleagues, dear friends in Ashraf, and the people in Iran who are listening to this message.
After reflecting on history and hearing what Carla Sands said about the Shah’s interviews conducted by Oriana Fallaci, one of my favorites, and by Barbara Walters, we must say loudly and repeatedly: No to the Shah, No to the mullahs.
As we approach International Women’s Day, I want to draw attention to some important points. First, we must celebrate Maryam Rajavi as an icon of women worldwide. She has been exceptionally brave, persistent, and inspiring in her efforts to preserve the memory and drive for a free Iran.
There are two other points I want to highlight today, based on two of the ten points that Madame Rajavi has advocated over the years. The first is the separation of religion and state, which is especially important today. I remember, when I was Minister of Education in my country, that when Congress tried to merge religion and government, I chose to resign from my position because I could not agree with combining them.
We must express our solidarity with the people of Ashraf 3. But we must also stand with the women who, in recent months, have been killed or massacred. From the bottom of my heart, I extend solidarity to their families and to the movement striving to bring liberty to Iran.
The second point I want to emphasize concerns the nuclear issue. In this fragile world, as global conflicts and belligerence increase, we must pay attention to the nuclear capabilities that Iran is attempting to develop. We strongly oppose this, and we support Maryam Rajavi, who has repeatedly spoken out against Iran’s nuclear program and nuclear army.
In this fragile world, we must preserve peace. Women are true guardians of peace worldwide. Again, we must express our solidarity, apply our wisdom for success, and remain vigilant to prevent the dangers that may arise in the coming days, weeks, and months. We must protect the role of women and the presence of Maryam Rajavi in a future Iranian government. No to the mullahs, no to the Shah.
