Masahiro Tauchi, Advisor, DEVNET JAPAN Former Ambassador of Japan to Norway
This year’s Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Ms. Narges Mohammadi, a symbol of Iran’s women’s liberation movement. For years, she has been a relentless advocate for women’s rights and a deputy representative of the Defenders of Human Rights Center in Tehran, challenging the oppression and discrimination against women under Iran’s theocratic regime. As a result, she has been arrested multiple times and subjected to severe punishments such as lashing and long-term imprisonment. Nevertheless, she never wavered, steadfastly upholding her beliefs and ideals. Her unwavering determination not only resonated within Iran but also inspired courage and hope among people worldwide.
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to individuals or organizations that have made the most significant contributions to humanity over the past year. The most remarkable event during this time was the massive civic movement in Iran. It was sparked in September 2022 when a young Kurdish woman was arrested by the moral police and tragically lost her life over the issue of wearing a headscarf. This incident led to nationwide protests against the government, with hundreds of thousands of Iranians peacefully demonstrating under the banner of “Women, Life, Freedom.” It became the largest protest movement since the rise of the theocratic regime in 1979 and demonstrated the potential to shake the established order.
Despite the government’s attempts to suppress the demonstrations, the protestors remained resolute. Many paid a heavy price, but the demonstrations persisted. At the heart of it all was Narges Mohammadi, who voiced her support from her prison cell and organized acts of solidarity with fellow inmates. She also conveyed her message to the world, shedding light on the events unfolding in Iran. She famously stated, “The more they confine us, the stronger we become.”
The Norwegian Nobel Committee acknowledged the significance of this civic movement. Committee Chair Berit Reiss-Andersen stated, “Mohammadi is a champion of freedom. She has shown courageous dedication to human rights, freedom, and democratization in Iran. And hundreds of thousands of people have demonstrated their opposition to the suppression of women by the theocratic regime. This year’s Nobel Peace Prize recognizes that.”
Iran has seen previous Nobel Peace Prize laureates, such as Shirin Ebadi from the Defenders of Human Rights Center in Tehran, but the situation for women in Iran remained largely unchanged. However, this time is different, according to the Committee Chair. “The strength of the demonstrations has grown, and more young people have shown greater courage. We hope that change is occurring at deeper levels of society. Peace takes time, but remember, it took three Nobel Peace Prizes for apartheid to crumble. The unique movement in Iran last year deserves a Peace Prize.” The Nobel Peace Prize signifies international support and solidarity for Iran’s women’s liberation movement. The objections and accusations of interference from the Iranian government can be disregarded. Recognizing the inherent dignity and inalienable rights of all members of the human community is the foundation of world peace. What is crucial is the increasing clamor for freedom and democratization within Iran. Ms. Narges Mohammadi is the spokesperson and leader of that voice. She is a hero, not only for Iran but for women worldwide. Let us pay tribute to her and express our support for the Iranian citizens’ movement.