Iran Conference 1

On 6 March 2026, Mithra (Lion and Sun Foundation) hosted Iran Conference 1, bringing together scholars, activists, and community members to reflect on Iran’s complex history and its people’s enduring pursuit of freedom and dignity.

The conference opened with an exploration of Iran’s cultural and civilisational heritage — a nation whose people have long aspired to self-determination and democratic governance. Speakers drew a direct line from historical struggles for constitutional reform to the present day, underscoring the deep roots of the Iranian people’s desire for justice and liberty.

A central focus of the event was the national uprising of 2026 and the devastating massacre that followed, in which tens of thousands of Iranians lost their lives. Participants honoured the memory of the victims and discussed the profound impact of these events on both the Iranian population and the global diaspora. The gravity of these losses made clear the urgency of sustained international attention and advocacy.

The conference also looked forward, presenting a vision for a free and prosperous Iran. Representatives from the Iran Prosperity Project (IPP), under the leadership of crown prince Reza Pahlavi, outlined concrete frameworks for political transition, economic recovery, and the rebuilding of civil society. These discussions emphasised that a stable, democratic Iran would be a force for regional peace and global cooperation.

Finally, attendees explored the vital role that international allies — governments, academic institutions, civil society organisations, and diaspora communities — can play in supporting the Iranian people’s path toward justice and liberty. The message was clear: solidarity is not only a moral imperative but a practical necessity in advancing meaningful change.