Iranian-American journalist and activist Masih Alinejad has received the Masih Alinejad Democracy Prize Frankfurt, marking her long-standing efforts to advocate for women’s and human rights in Iran.
The award, known as the European Paulskirche Prize for Democracy, is being presented for the first time in Frankfurt. Alinejad has spent years campaigning against compulsory hijab laws and restrictions on women in Iran.
In 2014, she sparked a global movement by sharing a photo of herself without a headscarf. This led to the launch of her campaign, “My Stealthy Freedom,” which encouraged Iranian women to share similar images online despite legal risks.
Alinejad has lived in exile since 2009 but remains one of the most prominent voices in the Iranian freedom movement. In a recent interview, she emphasised her commitment to democratic values, stating: “I love democracy.” She also highlighted the importance of purpose and dignity in her work.
The European Paulskirche Prize for Democracy was established by the city of Frankfurt to honour individuals contributing to democratic values. The award commemorates St. Paul’s Church (Paulskirche), regarded as the birthplace of German democracy, where the first elected parliament convened in 1848.
Alinejad’s activism often includes symbolic gestures, such as wearing a white-and-yellow flower to protest compulsory hijab laws. Her recognition reflects growing international attention to human rights issues and the role of activists in promoting democratic freedoms.
