Dear Editorial Team,
In just two weeks, the Iranian diaspora in Oulu collected over 700 signatures for a petition demanding democracy and freedom for our people. We include this petition with our invitation for you to review.
We warmly invite you to our rally March 7, 2026, at 5:00 PM
For nearly 50 years, the Iranian regime has oppressed the people of Iran. The current uprising began with widespread protests demanding democracy, political freedoms, and respect for human rights. Tens or even hundreds of thousands of participants have joined demonstrations across many cities.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has responded with violence, killing numerous demonstrators and arresting activists, journalists, and protest organizers. Internet blackouts, social media shutdowns, and limits on foreign media have been used to prevent organization and reduce international attention. Despite this, protests continue with a unified voice calling for accountability and reform, supported by Iranian diaspora communities organizing solidarity demonstrations worldwide.
Millions of Iranians have emigrated, forming a global diaspora actively involved socially and politically. Between January and February, at least 168 protests took place in 30 countries and 73 cities, including London, Hamburg, Stockholm, Toronto, Los Angeles, Washington DC, Sydney, and Melbourne.
On February 14, 2026, opposition leader and former crown prince Reza Pahlavi declared a Global Day of Action for Iran’s freedom. Over a million people participated, showing solidarity and demanding democracy.
Masud Gharahkhani, President of the Norwegian Parliament (Storting) and originally from Iran, noted:
“Det är ju navnet til Reza Pahlavi de roper”
(“It is precisely the name of Reza Pahlavi they are shouting”). This highlights Pahlavi as a key transitional leader for democracy.
The Islamic Republic has failed its people and supported regional aggression, including in Syria, Yemen, Iraq, and conflicts with Israel, as well as backing Russia’s war against Ukraine.
We welcomed U.S. strikes as a step toward liberating Iran and celebrated the end of Ali Khamenei’s oppressive rule. Terror and oppression must end, and the regime must be dismantled. International support and intervention are essential.
As Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated after the massacre of protesting Iranians:
“Kill enough people — and you stay in power. Who in Europe wants this to be true?”
At the rally, we will chant for democracy and freedom for our people and call for an end to the regime.
Respectfully,
The Iranian Diaspora in Oulu
Link to the petition: