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Marking Human Rights Day on December 7, a significant international conference titled “The Solution to the Iran Crisis and the Role of the Democratic Alternative” was held in Paris, drawing attention to the pressing human rights and political challenges in Iran. Organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), the event brought together prominent international figures, former government officials, parliamentarians, and human rights advocates.
The keynote speaker, Maryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the NCRI, presented a comprehensive roadmap for democratic change in Iran.
The panel of speakers included Guy Verhofstadt, former Prime Minister of Belgium; Dr. Herta Däubler-Gmelin, former German Justice Minister; Carsten Müller, German MP; Thomas Lutze, German MP; Leo Dautzenberg, former German MP; Dr. Rudolf G. Adam, former Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Foreign Intelligence; Hans Ulrich Seidt, former Inspector General of the German Foreign Office; Prof. Margot Käßmann, former head of the German Protestant Church; and Martin Patzelt, former German MP.
The conference also featured representatives from delegations of youth, women, and martyrs’ families, along with two video messages from Ashraf 3.
In her address, Mrs. Rajavi summarized the current state of the regime, highlighting several critical points: “First – the ruling regime is confronted with explosive societal discontent and is incapable of preventing the inevitable uprisings.
Second – the regime has not been able to quell the organized resistance, and today, the Resistance Units have become established as an effective entity in society.
Third – the regime’s regional balance of power has dramatically weakened, and its proxy forces have been crippled. And fourth – it cannot back away from its strategy of war and repression, has no capacity for even the smallest reforms, and is unable to escape its economic collapse.”
Mrs. Rajavi outlined the key elements of Iran’s regime change process. She emphasized the role of discontented citizens and the Resistance Units in preparing for an organized uprising. The NCRI, a democratic alternative with international credibility, provides leadership and a detailed plan, she said, adding that the PMOI/MEK, with its experienced members and inspirational centers like Ashraf 3, supports this effort, focusing on empowering women and youth. After regime change, NCRI President-elect stressed, the NCRI plans to establish a provisional government for six months, followed by elections for a constituent assembly. This body will draft a new constitution, approved by referendum, establishing a government that respects women’s rights, ethnic autonomy, religious equality, and the separation of church and state. The goal is a non-nuclear and peaceful Iran. She highlighted the NCRI’s platform, which advocates for:
A democratic Iran free of nuclear weapons
The abolition of the death penalty
Gender equality
Religious freedom
Rights for ethnic minorities
Separation of religion from state governance
The NCRI President-elect called on the international community to recognize the Iranian people’s struggle and the right of Resistance Units to confront the regime. She further saluted the sacrifices of countless human rights activists, marking International Human Rights Day as a testament to their enduring struggle.
This year, the history of #HumanRights in Iran was again drenched in blood. Nine political prisoners, including the heroes of the 2022 uprising, were hanged, and death sentences were issued one after another for ten members and supporters of the People’s Mojahedin of Iran… pic.twitter.com/jEdszEdvDf
— Maryam Rajavi (@Maryam_Rajavi) December 7, 2024
At the conference, Guy Verhofstadt stated, “The dominos are falling. After Syria, what comes next? The Iranian regime. As we have seen in Syria, things happen fast, and that is our hope in Iran.” He emphasized the urgent need for a dual focus on human rights and democracy in addressing the crisis in Iran. He commended the leadership of Maryam Rajavi and introduced a global call endorsed by 3,000 prominent figures, including Nobel laureates and former government officials from 87 countries. The call advocates for the abolition of the death penalty and an end to the regime’s use of executions as a political tool.
Verhofstadt criticized the policy of appeasement by Western nations, particularly Europe and the United States, towards Iran. He proposed four essential changes to Western strategy and said, “European Leadership must recognize the IRGC as a terrorist organization. The Iranian oil industry and banking system must be sanctioned. We need to recognize that there is a viable and democratic alternative in Iran and that there is a need for structural dialogue with it. It is not true that ending the appeasement of the regime will cause turmoil in the region, the Iranian regime is the source of instability and turmoil.”
The former Prime Minister of Belgium concluded with a moral appeal, stressing that supporting the Iranian Resistance is not merely a political choice but a moral imperative and key to restoring balance in the Middle East. He expressed optimism that, like rapid changes seen in Syria, similar swift progress toward freedom is possible in Iran.
Dr. Herta Däubler-Gmelin, delivered a powerful speech emphasizing the urgent need for democratic reform and human rights in Iran. She praised Maryam Rajavi’s leadership and her Ten-Point Plan for a democratic and lawful Iran, describing it as “excellent foundations for building a society that allows the people of Iran to shape a peaceful future.”
Referring to the death sentences for six PMOI supporters, Dr. Daubler-Gmelin added, “It is important to call for an end to executions in Iran. We need sanctions against the regime’s judicial officials who issue the death sentences. Mrs. Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan has called for the abolition of the death penalty and a non-nuclear Iran. This is a plan that needs to be supported.”
Dr. Däubler-Gmelin condemned the Iranian regime’s use of executions as tools of repression and its support for regional conflicts. She called for tougher sanctions, particularly targeting those in the judiciary who facilitate political executions, and urged Western governments to “abandon normal diplomatic relations with a criminal regime like the mullahs in Iran.”
Expressing hope for Iran’s future, she declared, “May the resistance in Syria serve as an inspiration for Iran. Achieving this would be a monumental victory and an incredible relief for the people of Iran.”
The former German Justice Minister concluded by calling for global solidarity, particularly with women’s movements, to bolster the fight for freedom and democracy in Iran.
Bundesministerin a.D. Herta Däubler-Gmelin auf der #NWRI– Konferenz in Paris: Wir fordern die Regierungen gerade auch in Europa auf, ihre Politik gegenüber dem Mullah-Regime im #Iran endlich deutlich zu revidieren. #Time4FirmIranPolicy #WomenResistanceFreedom #MaryamRajavi pic.twitter.com/YLFYYEG1mj
— Javad Dabiran (@JavadDabiran) December 9, 2024
Carsten Müller reaffirmed the strong cross-party support in Germany for a free and democratic Iran. He emphasized that the Iranian regime’s brutal oppression, particularly the nearly 1,000 executions carried out this year, underscores its criminal nature. Müller called for intensified measures, including formally designating the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization, implementing comprehensive sanctions, and downgrading diplomatic relations with the regime.
He stated, “We demand the listing of the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization, the downgrading of diplomatic relations, comprehensive sanctions, the closure of centers of fundamentalist propaganda and reactionary Islam, and the expulsion of regime agents from Germany. But we must realize that we will remain in a position of weakness in dealing with the Iranian regime as long as we do not support a solution and a democratic alternative. Without a credible alternative, we will ultimately be forced to cooperate with this regime, while we will have to block the way back to any form of dictatorship forever. Our motto should be: “Neither the dictatorship of the Shah nor the dictatorship of the mullahs – never again!”
The German MP and member of the CDU praised the courage of Iranian protesters, especially women, and expressed hope that 2025 might bring even more significant progress. “I genuinely believe that the mullahs’ regime has never been closer to collapse than it is right now,” Müller declared, urging international solidarity and decisive action to seize this critical moment for Iran’s future.
Thomas Lutze, emphasized the critical importance of human rights, calling them “indivisible and indispensable,” and asserted that Iran’s oppressive regime must be held accountable for its systematic violations. He described Iran as a nation where “arbitrariness, oppression, and terror prevail,” and expressed his hope for Iran to “finally break free from the ranks of rogue states and take the path toward freedom.”
Lutze commended Maryam Rajavi and the NCRI for their democratic vision, highlighting their commitment to values such as equality, religious freedom, and the abolition of the death penalty. “Your vision for a nuclear-free Iran is, in my opinion, a particularly crucial factor,” he noted.
Reflecting on his time in the Bundestag, the German MP from the SPD proposed a significant step: “After the next Bundestag elections, I will contact the leaders of the parliamentary groups to propose inviting you, President Rajavi, to deliver an address. I believe many representatives would gain significant insight from such an occasion.”
He concluded with a hopeful note, envisioning a future visit to Tehran, “a Tehran that is democratic, under a different government,” and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Iranian people’s struggle for freedom and justice.
MdB Thomas Lutze auf der #NWRI Konferenz in Paris: Wir brauchen einen neuen Ansatz. Die Unterstützung des iranischen Widerstands ist nicht nur eine moralische Pflicht, sondern auch eine politische und historische Notwendigkeit. Die demokratische Alternative, die der Nationale… pic.twitter.com/fumbrqUp4e
— Javad Dabiran (@JavadDabiran) December 9, 2024
Hans Ulrich Seidt, provided a detailed analysis of the challenges facing Iran and the international community’s role in supporting democratic change. He identified three existential risks to the Iranian regime: domestic instability, regional consequences of its expansive policies, and mounting global pressure. Seidt highlighted the regime’s internal vulnerabilities, including growing dissent and uncertainties surrounding Khamenei’s succession.
Criticizing past European diplomacy, he pointed out that the JCPOA failed to address critical issues such as human rights and Iran’s regional aggression. He emphasized the need for a new, unified European policy that incorporates the concerns of Iran’s democratic opposition and the global Iranian exile community. “It is essential to include non-state actors and the democratic opposition in shaping the European Union’s stance,” he stated.
The former Inspector General of the German Foreign Office commended Germany’s recent actions, such as closing Iranian consulates, as clear signals to Tehran. He called for targeted sanctions addressing Iran’s economic sectors, nuclear program, and human rights abuses. Concluding with a hopeful outlook, he said, “The path to a peaceful future of freedom and self-determination for Iran is not easy, but it is possible, and we should pursue this path together.”
Martin Patzelt, reflected on the sacrifices and perseverance of the Iranian Resistance, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping a democratic Iran. He paid tribute to Professor Kazem Rajavi, calling his statement, “We write the history of human rights with our blood,” a powerful message to the world. Patzelt described Rajavi as a beacon of the resistance, whose ultimate sacrifice symbolizes the fight for freedom and human rights.
He condemned Western governments for prioritizing economic interests over human rights in Iran, stating, “This is a blatant betrayal of our convictions, our democratic values, and human rights.” Highlighting the importance of democracy, he asserted, “Democracy requires strength, understanding, patience, and even blood.”
The former German MP urged the international community, particularly Germany, to actively support the Iranian Resistance, as their struggle aligns with the preservation of global democracy. He envisioned a future where Iran, as part of a democratic world, becomes a bridge of hope, declaring, “You have seen our sacrifices and unyielding hope. Democracy is the greatest gift we can give our people.”
Concluding with a call to action, he stressed the need for continued solidarity, recognizing the Iranian Resistance as a testament to the endurance and strength required to uphold democracy.
Dr. Rudolf G. Adam, highlighted the destructive role of the Iranian regime in regional and global instability, stating, “At the center of this crisis lies Iran, a state from which terror, violence, and oppression emanate.” He condemned the regime’s involvement in wars across Gaza, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen, noting that the regime’s policies block pathways to peace.
The former Deputy Director of the Federal Bureau of Foreign Intelligence stressed the urgency of change within Iran, declaring, “The time for change is ripe. This change must come from the Iranian people themselves.” He praised Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as a solid foundation for building a democratic Iran, describing the need for a regime that fosters the nation’s “enormous intellectual, cultural, and economic potential.”
Criticizing appeasement policies, he urged the international community to increase pressure on Tehran: “We must not sacrifice long-term strategic objectives for short-term economic or financial gains.” Adam emphasized the importance of establishing communication with the Iranian people to promote alternatives to the current regime, concluding, “We share your vision for a new, free, and democratic Iran and support the goals of a fresh start.”
It was a great honour to host the event “Solution to the #Iran Crisis and the Role of the Democratic Alternative” in #Paris.
Special thanks to the distinguished speakers @guyverhofstadt @MdbMuller @thlutze @patzelt_ma905 and the President of @iran_policy Mrs. @Maryam_Rajavi https://t.co/6kv54RpFQr pic.twitter.com/L12YHrS2HT
— Farbod Mah (@farbodmah) December 9, 2024
Leo Dautzenberg expressed strong support for the Iranian Resistance, calling it “our Resistance Movement.” He praised Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan as a democratic alternative and a progressive roadmap for Iran’s future, emphasizing its global support: “Thousands of political leaders and parliamentarians worldwide support this program.”
Dautzenberg condemned the regime’s judicial brutality, highlighting the death sentences of six political prisoners and the systematic oppression of women: “The hijab is merely a pretext. The real goal is to silence women, the driving force for change, and subjugate the population.” He applauded the bravery of prisoners who continue to protest, chanting slogans like “Down with Khamenei.”
The former German MP and Chairman of the German Solidarity Committee for a Free Iran criticized the regime’s economic failures, citing “five consecutive years of forty percent inflation” and its inability to ensure basic utilities in an energy-rich country. Addressing the regime’s misuse of resources, he asked: “Why do you spend your country’s revenues on terrorism and wars instead of your people?”
Concluding with optimism, he declared, “We will succeed. In solidarity with my friends in Ashraf 3, I want to say: I am an Ashrafi.”
Prof. Margot Käßmann provided a theological perspective on the Iranian regime, condemning its fundamentalist practices. She asserted, “Violation of human rights, executions, and the denial of women’s equality cannot align with any belief in God, as all religions affirm that every human being is created equal.”
Käßmann criticized the Iranian theocracy’s patriarchal nature, particularly its oppressive dress codes for women. On a personal note, she remarked, *“If a woman’s skin and hair are so dangerous to men, why don’t the men stay at home? Iranian women are beautiful, and God created them that way.”
The former head of the German Protestant Church praised Maryam Rajavi’s leadership, stating, “Maryam Rajavi emphasizes that Islam is a religion of compassion, equality, and freedom, advocating for justice, coexistence, and respect for diverse faiths.” Käßmann highlighted the necessity of separating religion and state, calling Rajavi’s democratic interpretation of Islam “essential and deeply respectful.”
Reflecting on her experience in interfaith dialogue, Käßmann expressed hope for peace-building through religion, while acknowledging that dialogue with the current Iranian regime is impossible. She concluded, “With the convictions of the opposition led by Maryam Rajavi, I believe dialogue is possible. Together, we can build bridges to democratic societies where faith is practiced with respect for others.”
Zolal Habibi and the Women’s Delegation
A delegation of women took to the stage, where Zolal Habibi highlighted the ongoing oppression in Iran, particularly the regime’s targeting of women. She reported, “Over 500 people have been executed in just the past four months,” emphasizing that repression pervades every aspect of life under the mullahs. She condemned the Hijab and Chastity Law as a “direct attack on the dignity, identity, and freedom of Iranian women.”
Habibi praised the leadership of Maryam Rajavi and Iranian women within the MEK and NCRI, stating, “For over three decades, this movement has been led by brave women. Glass ceilings have been shattered, and cement walls broken.” Quoting Rajavi, she affirmed, “The suppressed women of today are the vanguards of tomorrow.”
She underscored the resilience of Iranian women, adding, “History bears testament to this fact. Tens of thousands of women have been executed, tortured, and imprisoned in their fight for freedom.” Habibi asserted that Iranian women are fighting not just against the compulsory hijab but against all forms of tyranny, demanding equality and full inclusion in leadership.
Concluding with hope, she declared, “The future of Iran will be written by its people and its women. A free Iran is inevitable and within reach.”
Behrouz Maqsoudi and the Youth Delegation:
Behrouz Maqsoudi shared his personal story at the conference. He recounted the harrowing experiences of his family, many of whom have suffered greatly under the Iranian regime.
“Three of my uncles were executed simply for supporting and being members of the PMOI. Two of them were killed during the 1988 massacre, in which over 90% of the victims were members of the PMOI. To this day, we do not know where they are buried,” he said. Maqsoudi shared a poignant memory from his childhood: “When I was 12, my mother and I tried to leave Iran, but because of my father’s activities, we were banned from leaving. A Ministry of Intelligence agent openly told my mother, ‘It’s better for you to stay in Iran and let your son become addicted to drugs rather than leave the country, where he might get closer to the PMOI and join them.’”
Reflecting on this experience, he added: “From a young age, I understood that the regime fears nothing more than the PMOI. The regime exerts enormous pressure on everyone to stay away from them. The reason for this fear is clear: the PMOI is the only organized, determined, and motivated force that thinks of nothing but overthrowing the regime and is willing to pay the price to achieve it.”
Nasrollah Marandi and the Delegation of Martyrs’ Families:
Nasrollah Marandi, a former political prisoner and a witness to the 1988 massacre of political prisoners, delivered a speech on behalf of the families of martyrs and political prisoners. Marandi, who spent ten years in Iran’s prisons, recounted his experiences of torture and the execution of inmates, shedding light on the horrors of the 1988 massacre and the resilience of political prisoners.
He spoke of the courage and steadfastness of political prisoners, naming many who resisted the regime under the most harrowing conditions. Marandi highlighted how the regime has survived through internal repression and external warmongering, further enabled by the policy of appeasement from Western governments.
Marandi expressed his outrage at the international community’s silence regarding human rights violations in Iran. “In just the past few weeks, nine members of the Mojahedin’s Resistance Units have been sentenced to death,” he reported.
He also referred to the findings of Javaid Rehman, the UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Iran, emphasizing that the continuation of these crimes is a direct result of the lack of accountability for the regime’s officials.
Video messages from Ashraf 3
Sending a video message to the conference, Sahar Senobari shared her journey from growing up and studying in Germany to joining the Iranian Resistance. Despite having a normal life with aspirations of becoming a lawyer, she felt compelled to act, stating, “As an Iranian woman, I could not ignore the situation of women and young girls in Iran under a misogynistic regime.”
Senobari contrasted the oppression of women in Iran with their empowering role in the resistance, emphasizing, “Women across Iran are at the forefront of the resistance and uprisings. Iranian women are the driving force behind the freedom of Iran.” She praised Maryam Rajavi’s leadership, quoting her motto: “We can, and we must.”
She highlighted the values of democracy, justice, and full participation of women in political leadership as central to the resistance. Senobari expressed her determination alongside her fellow women in the resistance, stating, “We are firmly determined to overthrow this dictatorial regime and create a new, beautiful, and inspiring future for the Iranian people.”
Ehsan Sharifi, also sending a video message, shared his journey from pursuing an education in Cologne, Germany, to dedicating his life to the Iranian Resistance. Initially torn between studying psychology and becoming a photojournalist, he chose a different path: “The fight for Iran’s freedom, in the heart of the Iraqi desert.”
Despite encountering criticism of the PMOI in Germany, Sharifi reflected on his childhood memories of the organization, which he described as “characterized by respect and solidarity.” A pivotal moment came when a supporter asked him, “The real question is not whether the PMOI are perfect. The question is whether anyone else is willing to actively advance the cause of freedom for the Iranian people. And are you ready to do it?”
This question led Sharifi to confront his own fears of leaving his comfort zone. He decided to join the PMOI in 1998. He admitted the journey was fraught with challenges but affirmed, “I have never regretted it. On the contrary, I am proud of my choice.”
Although he didn’t become a photojournalist or psychologist, he emphasized that his experiences with the PMOI taught him invaluable lessons about humanity, sacrifice, and sincerity. Sharifi concluded with hope, stating his desire to document and share his experiences with the world.
Tune in live:
NCRI meeting in Paris, France
Topic: Solution to the Iran Crisis & The Role of the Democratic Alternative
December 7, 2024- 3:25 PM CEThttps://t.co/jYFvcJgvH6
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) December 7, 2024