About the Foundation

Mithra (Lion and Sun Foundation – Netherlands) is a non-profit initiative founded by a group of Iranian and Iranian-Dutch individuals from diverse backgrounds — including academia, industry, the arts, and civil society. Rooted in a commitment to human rights, democratic values, and peaceful civic engagement, the foundation seeks to connect the Iranian diaspora, international experts, and institutions in support of a free Iran.

Through advocacy, education, expert networks, and international collaboration, Mithra works to build the intellectual and civic foundations necessary for a democratic and prosperous future. At its core is a simple belief: that a connected, informed, and empowered community can help shape the path toward justice, stability, and lasting freedom for Iran.

About Mithra (Mehr)

Mithra — known in Persian as Mehr — is one of the most ancient figures in Iranian heritage, rooted in beliefs that predate Zoroastrianism. Revered as the guardian of light, truth, and covenant, Mithra was associated with the rising sun — an eternal witness to justice and a symbol of renewal. Over centuries, his name and meaning spread far beyond Iran, becoming a powerful spiritual tradition across Europe and the Roman world.

Today, Mithra stands as a timeless symbol of hope: the light that rises after darkness, the force that upholds truth, and the promise of renewal. In this spirit, Mithra represents not only a shared cultural memory, but a vision for Iran’s future — one grounded in dignity, unity, and freedom.

Legal status

The Lion & Sun Foundation is registered as a Stichting (foundation) under Dutch law, with KVK number 42040107. We operate transparently and publish annual reports in accordance with Dutch governance standards. Our registered office is in the Netherlands; our website is lionsunfoundation.nl.

Work with us

We welcome collaboration with researchers, journalists, policymakers, universities, and civil-society organisations. If you share our commitment to a free and just Iran, we would love to hear from you.