Do not forget the women who rebelled

Iran has a long and painful history of protests. Election fraud, economic struggles, and civil liberties have all sparked revolts over the years. However, the most recent movement represents something unprecedented. A revolution led by women, supported by men, and deeply rooted in a demand for fundamental human rights.

The Persian song Baraye (Because of) by Shervin Hajipour has become the anthem of this movement, touching millions worldwide and even leading to Hajipour’s temporary release after his arrest. The lyrics capture the grievances of an entire generation that has reached its breaking point, unable to afford even the basic necessities while being forced to obey the oppressive rules of a religious dictatorship.

What could be more dangerous than a people who have nothing to lose? The French Revolution serves as a historical reminder that when desperation and oppression collide, the result is a force powerful enough to overthrow regimes.

This is different

Iran has seen waves of protests in recent years, mainly over a long-running economic crisis exacerbated by Western sanctions linked to the country's nuclear program and human rights abuses. However, in almost all cases, the authorities have succeeded in suppressing the protests with violence and with no international organization being able to stop this nightmare.

The Regime usually creates the narrative of the "Evil" enemy, the United States, who will always try to bring down "the glorious theocratic revolution". Unfortunately, this narrative has been held for quite a while, justified to a lesser extent, since Western governments have been keen on implementing harsh economic sanctions against Iran. Affecting the people but having no actual plan of helping the people of Iran to rebel.

Their response

As for what Iranian women themselves think about what they have been experiencing for nearly half a century? Looking back at social networks even before the violent internet shutdowns and social media bans, what one finds is that they do not see themselves as powerless victims, as they are often portrayed outside of Iran. They have deeply believed for years that they are agents of social change. They are always on the front lines fighting.

A survey published in The Conversation among 391 Iranian women aged 18-35 from the city of Shiraz revealed a powerful truth: Iranian women grow up learning to fight for their basic freedoms. Many develop multiple identities—one for their public life, another for social networks, and yet another within private circles—to survive within the rigid constraints of their society.

Social media has played a crucial role in raising awareness and widening the ideological gap between younger and older generations. A recent study found that 58% of Iranians do not support mandatory hijab laws, while only 23% actively support the government’s strict regulations. This statistic reveals that the majority of the population does not wish to abolish the hijab itself—they simply want the freedom to choose.

Our respons(e)ibility

Economic sanctions alone are not enough. In some cases, they may even be counterproductive, particularly when they disproportionately affect the working class and strengthen the regime’s anti-Western narrative.

So, what should the international community do? This is a question I have wrestled with myself. A more active approach is necessary—though not in the form of military intervention. Instead, we must support Iran’s pro-democracy movements through diplomatic recognition, financial assistance, and public visibility.

International organizations should empower Iranian activists, ensuring that their voices are heard on the global stage. At the same time, democratic nations must be prepared to offer asylum to those fleeing persecution and to amplify the stories of those who remain and resist.

Some may find this idea extreme, but if the time comes when democratic movements in Iran see armed resistance as their only path forward, then the world should consider supporting them. Just as history has shown in past revolutions, authoritarian regimes do not fall without struggle.

A Revolution Worth Remembering

The women of Iran are not just protesting; they are leading a movement that challenges one of the most repressive governments in the world. They are demanding the right to exist freely, to live without fear, and to shape their own futures.

If we fail to support them, history will judge us for our silence. Let us not forget the women who rebelled.

Written and Published by Sergios Saropoulos.