Meeting at the European Parliament on the Situation in Iran
On Thursday, January 22, 2026, a meeting was held at the European Parliament to discuss the situation in Iran. The meeting took place at the request of the Kurdistan Democratic Party of Iran and with the cooperation of the Social Democrat group at the European Parliament and was attended by several Members of the European Parliament.
The PDKI delegation included Hesam Dastpish and Aso Azizi. Iranian activists and human rights figures, including Negin Shiraghaei, Kambiz Ghafouri, and Awyar Shekhi from the Hengaw Human Rights Organization, also participated.
The meeting was chaired by MEP Evin Incir, who opened the session with remarks on the current situation in Iran and invited the speakers to present their views.
Hesam Dastpish, speaking on behalf of the PDKI, emphasized that Iran is undergoing a critical period of change. He called on European countries to support progressive and democratic forces, stressing that unity around the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement is the most effective path forward.
Negin Shiraghaei, a women’s rights and democracy activist, highlighted the importance of civil society and the key role of women and democratic forces in building a pluralistic and democratic future for Iran. She stressed that international support is important, not to impose agendas, but to strengthen democratic movements.
Journalist and political activist Kambiz Ghafouri stated that change in Iran belongs to the people, not to any single individual or group. He warned against media-driven efforts to promote specific figures and emphasized the need to genuinely support democratic movements.
Awyar Shekhi, representing Hengaw Human Rights Organization, presented a report on the worsening human rights situation, describing severe and systematic repression. He referred to incidents in Ilam as crimes against humanity and outlined ways the international community can provide support.
In closing, several prominent MEPs from the Social Democrats, the Greens, and other political groups raised questions and emphasized the need to support the opposition and freedom-seeking peoples of Iran. This marked the first time a dedicated meeting on Iran’s situation was held at the European Parliament.
