In the heart of Sanandaj, Kurdistan, women’s rights activists and various organisations gathered to celebrate International Women’s Day despite looming security threats. Groups such as the Kurdistan Women’s Union, Mothers for Peace, and others stood united, voicing their demands for women’s rights through powerful chants against executions and “honour killings.”
During the rally, a poignant statement by three women’s rights organisations resonated deeply, acknowledging the historical struggle for women’s liberation. From the early 19th-century protests of female workers to modern movements for equality, women have fought valiantly against oppression.
In Iran, however, the regime persistently undermines women’s rights through harsh policies including compulsory hijabs and limitations on freedoms. Such oppressive measures perpetuate violence, leading to alarming rates of femicide and abuse, particularly against vulnerable groups, including Kurdish and Baluch women. In this context, various protest movements have united to challenge these injustices.
The current regime fears the presence of women, particularly highlighted since the Jina Revolution. Activists have faced severe reprisals, yet figures like Pakhshan Azizi have emerged as symbols of resistance, igniting a global movement for justice.
Women in Sanandaj commemorated International Women’s Day amid security challenges, uniting to protest against inequality and violence. Various groups conveyed a strong message of resilience and defiance against oppressive policies in Iran. The movement marks a significant turning point in the quest for women’s rights, resilience, and liberation, striving toward an inevitable victory for justice and equality.
The gathering in Sanandaj on International Women’s Day illuminated the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Iran, particularly in Kurdistan. Despite facing oppression, women continued their fight for equality and freedom, showcasing resilience and unity. The movement represents a profound shift towards justice, signalling a refusal to retreat to past injustices. Women stand firm in their demand for a future free from discrimination, embodying hope for transformation in society.
Original Source: kurdistanhumanrights.org
