In September 2022, amidst the streets of Tehran, a beacon of courage emerged in the form of 16-year-old Nika Shakarami. Her tragic death has exposed the harrowing depths of brutality by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), yet her story resonates far beyond the circumstances of her demise. Nika stood not just for women’s rights, but for the broader ideals of freedom, speech, and a hopeful future for the Iranian nation.
Nika’s brave actions during the protests were emblematic of a generation demanding change. On a fateful day near Laleh Park, Nika’s bold stance involved setting fire to hijabs, a symbolic act of resistance against The Islamic Republic’s oppressive dress code. This act, under the watchful eyes of the regime, marked her as a leader, though tragically it led to her brutal repression.
Contrary to the claims of the regime, reports suggest that Nika did not die by suicide but was a victim of a violent assault by the IRGC’s operatives. Her last moments, detailed in a leaked document, highlight not just a personal tragedy but a systemic issue within the Islamic Republic’s security apparatus.
The Islamic Republic, distinct from the people of Iran, continues to suppress dissent through violence and misinformation. However, the spirit of the Iranian people, as embodied by Nika, remains unbroken. They fight not for the regime, but against it, striving for a nation that upholds the true values of freedom and dignity.
Nika’s legacy is a poignant reminder of the cost of freedom and the enduring strength of those who fight for it. Her life, though tragically cut short, inspires ongoing resistance against oppression and paints a picture of what a free Iran could look like. Let us honor Nika’s memory by continuing her fight, advocating for the rights and freedoms that every person deserves.
This is not just a story of loss but a clarion call for action — to support the Iranian people in their quest to reclaim their country from the clutches of tyranny. Nika Shakarami will forever be remembered as a hero, a martyr for freedom, and a symbol of the indomitable human spirit striving for a better future.
To galvanize support and promote decisive action, we urge the European Union to recognize the gravity of the atrocities committed by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by officially listing it as a terrorist organization. This designation is crucial for aligning global efforts to curb human rights abuses and to honor the memories of brave souls like Nika Shakarami, who fought valiantly for the basic freedoms that many are denied. Let us stand together in calling for this necessary step to hold the IRGC accountable and to protect the fundamental human rights of all Iranians. Join us in this critical movement for justice and freedom.
