Two years after the death of Jina Mahsa Amini in the custody of Iran’s morality police, thousands have taken to the streets in Europe, demanding justice and women’s rights under the now global slogan “Jin Jiyan Azadî” (Woman, Life, Freedom).
Protests across Europe
Demonstrations took place in cities including Berlin, Frankfurt, Stockholm, Brussels and Amsterdam, with protestors decrying the Iranian government’s treatment of women and minorities. Organisers described Amini’s death as a symbol of resistance for Kurdish women and oppressed groups worldwide. Demonstrators held banners with Amini’s image and chanted “Jin Jiyan Azadî”, as they condemned the ongoing repression in Iran.
In Berlin, thousands gathered at Hermannplatz, demanding justice for Amini and other victims of state violence in Iran. Kurdish and feminist groups organised the event, highlighting the great numbers of political prisoners and executions. Iranian human rights defenders spoke at a demonstration in Frankfurt, where organisers too criticised Iran’s policies against women and political activists. In Stockholm’s Norrabantorget Square, the Ronak and Amara Women’s Assemblies called for global action against Iran’s persecution of women and minorities.
Calls for action in Turkey
In Turkey, women’s organisations and human rights groups called for solidarity with the Iranian women’s movement. The Women’s Assemblies of the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM) shared videos urging action on the anniversary of Amini’s death, while hashtags such as #JinJiyanAzadi and #MahsaAmini fuelled social media campaigns.
Iran: General strikes
Meanwhile, in Iranian Kurdistan, known as Rojhilat, activists and trade unions called for a general strike. In anticipation of protests, security was tightened, and Amini’s parents were placed under house arrest. Access to Saqqez, Amini’s home town, was blocked, and military forces deployed to prevent public gatherings at her grave. Despite these restrictions, activists across Iran continue to resist under the slogan “Jin Jiyan Azadî”, demanding justice for Amini and the hundreds of protesters killed since her death.
