Open Letter to the President of the German Bundestag

Dear Madam President Klöckner,

For almost half a century now, Iranian society has suffered under the rule of the mullahs. As a result of this political situation, many people – including us, as physicians, scientists, pharmacists, psychotherapists, healthcare professionals and academics of Iranian origin – have sought a future abroad. We see ourselves as an integral part of the democratic societies in which we live today, and we take our responsibility and social solidarity seriously. In this spirit, we devote ourselves in particular to the medical care of our fellow human beings.

For years, people in Iran have taken to the streets at various intervals to express their dissatisfaction with the ruling system. For decades, corruption, injustice, the oppression of women and the absence of freedom and democratic participation have shaped the country. The consequences of this system are not limited to the suffering of the Iranian population; they also extend beyond the country’s borders – for example through regional instability, security tensions and the influence of extremist movements.

The people of Iran are expressing clearly and unmistakably that they long for freedom, the rule of law and democratic structures. Part of Iranian society – both inside the country and in the diaspora – sees in Prince Reza Pahlavi a possible political figure for a future transition process. At the same time, Iranian society is diverse, young and well educated, and strives for a secular state and democratic self-determination.

Against this background, it appears sensible – also in the European interest – to support civil society in Iran in its pursuit of reform, the rule of law and democratic development. A stable and peaceful Iran could in the long term make a constructive contribution to regional stability and become a reliable partner for Europe.

Iranian society, and we as citizens of Iranian origin, therefore wish for stronger support for the democratic aspirations in Iran, as well as a nuanced and fact-based engagement with the political situation on the ground. This also represents an important opportunity for Europe and Germany to take responsibility for peace, stability and human rights.

Over the past decades, Prince Reza Pahlavi has repeatedly spoken out in favour of democratic principles, the equality of all citizens and peaceful international relations. Against this background, we would like to ask you to consider whether a dialogue with various representatives of the Iranian opposition – including Prince Reza Pahlavi – would be possible within a parliamentary framework, in order to gain a comprehensive picture of the different political perspectives.

Yours sincerely,

Patriotic Doctors of Iran (PDI)