In September 2022, the murder of 22-year-old Jina Mahsa Amini by Iran’s so-called morality police sparked one of the most powerful protest movements in recent Iranian history: Jin, Jiyan, Azadî – Woman, Life, Freedom. Three years later, this Exile Talks event in Berlin amplifies the voices of Iranian women who continue to work on Iran from exile.

Artist Ghazal Abdollahi, who took part in the protests and recently fled to Berlin, and journalist Maryam Mardani (Amal Berlin!), who writes short stories and reports from exile, speak about women’s rights, the situation of critical journalists and artists in Iran and in exile, and the challenges of working across borders. We will learn about various forms of transnational repression and the Islamic Republic’s response to international solidarity—whether through state propaganda, the use of influencers, or other tactics.

What does it mean to leave one’s country, but continue reporting on it? How do exiled journalists and artists maintain their connections, and what does resistance look like today?

Moderated by Daniela Sepehri, German-Iranian journalist and activist known for her work on Iranian women’s rights and her public education on the situation in Iran.

This will be an open and welcoming space for conversation, learning, and connection. After the panel discussion, there will be time for audience questions, followed by snacks, drinks, and informal networking and the opportunity to buy books by speakers and CORRECTIV. Whether you’re deeply engaged with the topic or just curious to learn more, you’re warmly invited.

This event is part of the monthly “Exile Talks” series, which brings the expertise and experiences of exiled journalists and media professionals to the stage. The event is kindly supported by Freundinnen und Freunde der Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung.