Jina Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman, tragically lost her life in September 2022 after being arrested by the police in Tehran for allegedly defying Iran's strict veiling laws. Her death became a catalyst for widespread women-led demonstrations across Iran, with protesters rallying against discriminatory laws, including the mandatory hijab rule.
In her announcement, President Metsola emphasized the European Parliament's solidarity with those striving for equality, dignity, and freedom in Iran. She underscored the resilience of the Woman, Life, Freedom movement, even in the face of harsh repression, and reaffirmed the Parliament's commitment to upholding the struggle for fundamental liberties.
The Sakharov Prize, established in 1988, is awarded annually to individuals and organizations championing human rights and freedom of thought. It serves as a tribute to the legacy of Soviet physicist and human rights activist Andrei Sakharov, with a monetary award of 50,000 euros. The award ceremony is scheduled to take place on December 13, 2023, at the European Parliament's hemicycle in Strasbourg.
The European Parliament has consistently condemned the human rights abuses in Iran, calling for sanctions against the perpetrators and extending unwavering support to the peaceful protest movement in the country. With this year's Sakharov Prize, the European Union reaffirms its commitment to championing the rights and freedoms of individuals and organizations at the forefront of the struggle for human dignity and equality.
