« Narges Mohammadi, an advocate for women’s rights in Iran, was awarded the 2023 Nobel Peace Prize in Oslo on Friday ‘for her fight against the oppression of women in Iran and her fight to promote human rights and freedom for all.’
This prestigious recognition spotlights Mohammadi’s tireless commitment to gender equality and human rights, a commitment that has deeply impacted her personal life.
“Narges Mohammadi’s brave struggle has come with tremendous personal costs. Altogether, the regime has arrested her 13 times, convicted her five times, and sentenced her to a total of 31 years in prison and 154 lashes. Ms Mohammadi is still in prison as I speak,” said Berit Reiss-Andersen, head of the Norwegian Nobel Committee in Oslo.
Reiss-Andersen emphasised that Ms Mohammadi’s advocacy goes beyond gender, echoing the sentiments of Iranian demonstrators who chant ‘Woman – Life – Freedom.’ This phrase captures the core of Mohammadi’s mission.
« The motto adopted by the demonstrators – ‘Woman – Life – Freedom’ – suitably expresses the dedication and work of Narges Mohammadi. Woman. She fights for women against systematic discrimination and oppression. Life. She supports women’s struggle for the right to live full and dignified lives. This struggle across Iran has been met with persecution, imprisonment, torture, and even death. Freedom. She fights for freedom of expression and the right of independence, and against rules requiring women to remain out of sight and to cover their bodies. The freedom demands expressed by demonstrators apply not only to women, but to the entire population,” she added.
Narges Safie Mohammadi, born on April 21, 1972, is an Iranian human rights activist, scientist, and the vice president of the Defenders of Human Rights Center (DHRC), an organization led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi.
Narges Mohammadi’s remarkable journey stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who strive for justice and equality in the face of adversity. Her unwavering commitment to human rights has brought her international recognition, shining a spotlight on the urgent need for change in Iran and beyond. »
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