.png)
From the crowded corridors of Tehran's Evin Prison, Narges Mohammadi, a luminary in the realm of human rights, continues her relentless battle against government suppression. At 51, Mohammadi has devoted over 30 years of her life advocating for grass-roots changes, women’s rights, and a fortified civil society in Iran.
Mohammadi's unwavering spirit has been the bedrock of her advocacy. Despite her current 10-year incarceration for alleged "anti-state propaganda," her activism refuses to dim. Indeed, even the thick walls of prison haven't deterred her spirit. Last year, she orchestrated protests and initiated sit-ins as part of the women-led uprising that shook Iran's very core. Additionally, her commitment towards women empowerment echoes through the weekly workshops she organizes, enlightening fellow female inmates about their inherent rights.
Her family's narrative is equally poignant. Taghi Rahmani, her husband and co-rights activist, and their twin children, Ali and Kiana, have sought refuge in France. The heart-wrenching reality is that Mohammadi hasn’t held her children in her arms for the last eight years. Yet, Mr. Rahmani's sentiments reveal a broader perspective. In a recent conversation, he emphasized that recognizing Mohammadi's relentless efforts would not only spotlight her but also illuminate the entire spectrum of human rights activists in Iran. He mentioned, "It's a recognition of the Women, Life, Freedom movement in Iran."
History was mirrored when Mohammadi became the second Iranian woman to clinch the Nobel Peace Prize, following in the footsteps of her mentor and colleague, Shirin Ebadi, who received the accolade in 2003. Both women previously collaborated at the Defenders of Human Rights Center in Iran, an establishment that faced an unfortunate shutdown in 2009.
Delving into Mohammadi's past, she was born in Zanjan, Iran, in 1972. The echo of activism began early in her life. Vivid memories include her mother, with a basket filled with fruits, visiting her incarcerated brother and anxiously waiting by the television to learn about the fate of prisoners. As a university student, her involvement in activism burgeoned, leading her to establish a women's hiking group and another centering on civic engagement. The intertwined paths of her and her husband's activism meant that their lives oscillated between moments of freedom and incarceration.
Narges Mohammadi's name resonates globally. This year, she was bestowed with the PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award in New York, and the United Nations honored her with the World Press Freedom Prize in May. In a profound interaction with The Times, Mohammadi expressed, "I have to keep my eyes on the horizon and the future even though the prison walls are tall and near and blocking my view."
The Nobel Peace Prize this year shines a spotlight on imprisoned activists, emphasizing their significance. Narges Mohammadi's story, her undying spirit, and unyielding resolve make her not only the 19th woman to receive the award but also a symbol of hope and perseverance for many across the world.