A symbol of global recognition and one of The FT’s 25 most influential women of 2023, this year's Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to Narges Mohammadi for her rattling and unstoppable dedication to human rights and women's liberation in Iran. 

The award, beyond its monetary value, is a testament to Mohammadi's dedicated spirit, which has endured 13 arrests, 5 convictions, and a total sentence of 31 years in prison and 154 lashes. 

A scientist, journalist, and human rights activist, Mohammadi has repeatedly been faced with incarceration and persecution for her defiance against the consistent violence and injustice towards women. Her most recent imprisonment, stemming from attending a memorial in 2021, highlights the oppressive conditions of not only Tehran's Evin Prison but Iran’s response against unjust human rights issues.

Narges Mohammadi's journey began in the 1990s as a physics graduate, and then engineer whilst simultaneously evolving into a fighter and advocate for equality and women's rights. Her first arrest occurred in 2011 and since then she persisted in fighting, which led to her further arrests. She continues to speak with no consequence, exposing the regime's use of torture and sexualized violence against political prisoners. 

Mohammadi now becomes the second Iranian woman, after Shirin Ebadi in 2003, to receive this esteemed recognition. The prize, worth 11 million Swedish kronor, (equalling out to around one million dollars) not only highlights Mohammadi's resilience but also hopes to serve as a plea for her release. 

The Nobel Committee additionally sheds light on the broader struggle against the oppression of women in Iran. The motto "Woman, Life, Freedom" captures the fight against systematic discrimination and oppression. Alongside Narges Mohammadi, the 2023 Peace Prize resonates with the hundreds of thousands who have protested against Iran's discriminatory policies, screaming out for change.

The Nobel Peace Prize celebration, rooted in Alfred Nobel's vision for union between nations and the promotion of peace, is a signal of hope for what’s to come. The award ceremony on December 10th, the anniversary of Nobel's death, reinforces the commitment to recognizing those who contribute significantly to humankind's benefit. 

Mohammadi’s advocacy continues to receive global acclaim, however, her imprisonment, and the call for release is only a small step towards a broader fight for human rights, not only in Iran but around the world.  

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Nicola Sebastian is a writer, thinker, and sometimes a dreamer. Currently finishing up her studies, her words, writing, and thoughts can be found in the small nooks of the big wide web.