On Saturday, February 21, 2026, on the eve of 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.
At this conference, Soodeh Abbasi a member of central council of PMOI and a resident of Ashraf 3 delivered a speech.
Soodeh Abbasi: The beauty of life lies in striving for others
Good evening, everyone. It is a great honor to speak today in the presence of my dear Mrs. Rajavi and among such extraordinary people. My name is Soodeh. For more than 25 years, I have stood with the struggle against Iran’s clerical regime.
The fight of Iranian women for equality has always been connected to the 120-year struggle of the Iranian people for freedom. I chose this path with awareness, reflection, and careful thought. It was not simple and it was not impulsive. It was a choice shaped by responsibility, responsibility to my people.
Life for everyone, not just for yourself
But Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s answer opened a new window for me. Yes, we love life. We love it so much that we will not keep it just for ourselves. We want it for everyone. That changed everything for me. The beauty of life lies in striving for others, in fighting for the freedom of others, not just for yourself.
Today, after decades of suffering and bloodshed, with the January killings being the most recent example, the remnants of the Shah and his son are trying to take our country back to monarchy and dictatorship. Through propaganda, manipulated images, and false numbers, they claim to offer a ready-made alternative.
But everyone knows the truth. A genuine alternative is built on a connection to the people inside the country, a history of sacrifice and struggle, clear boundaries with both the Shah and the Mullahs, and a real plan for the future.
Our mission, our responsibility, and our goal is to take power from dictatorship and return it to the free vote of the people. This is our commitment, and we will continue until victory.
