Persian-Language Writers and Media Figures Thank the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Awarding the 2026 Freedom Prize to Prince Reza Pahlavi

A group of writers, journalists, broadcasters and directors of Persian-language media outside Iran have, in a statement, thanked the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom for its decision to award the 2026 Freedom Prize to Prince Reza Pahlavi on behalf of the people of Iran.

Full text of the statement (translated from Persian)

We, a group of writers, authors, journalists, broadcasters and directors of Persian-language media outside Iran, hereby express our gratitude and appreciation to the leadership of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation on the occasion of the Foundation's decision to award the 2026 Freedom Prize to Prince Reza Pahlavi.

Iran's Lion and Sun Revolution, through the courage, bravery and sacrifice of Iran's daughters and sons, women and men, astonished the world.

Although these struggles have come with great suffering, the loss of many thousands of our compatriots' lives and countless sacrifices, the people of Iran have shown once again that they are a living nation that seeks justice and freedom, and that they strive to attain freedom and their fundamental rights.

We are glad that in 2026 the Friedrich Naumann Foundation is presenting the Freedom Prize to Prince Reza Pahlavi on behalf of the people of Iran.

We regard this act as a sign of the Foundation's attention to and support for the people of Iran and their struggle for freedom, and as a recognition of the ideal of freedom.

Signatories

Signed by 73 Persian-language writers, journalists, broadcasters and media directors outside Iran. The full list of signatories appears on the Persian version of this page.