Shirin Ebadi 1947–
Winner of the Nobel Peace Prize
In 2003, the people of Iran had cause to celebrate. For the first time, an Iranian citizen had won the Nobel Peace Prize. She was Shirin Ebadi, and she was being honored “for her efforts for democracy and human rights.”
Shirin Ebadi grew up in Tehran, the capital of Iran. She did well in school and went on to law school. In 1969, Ebadi became a judge, the first female judge in Iran.
Ebadi's life changed when Ayatollah Kohmeini took over the government of Iran in 1979. She was no longer permitted to serve as a judge or even to practice law. She turned her energy to writing articles and books. Finally, in 1992, Ebadi was able to practice law again. She focused on defending the rights of people that the government did not protect, such as women and children. She also taught about human rights.
As a lawyer, judge, writer, and teacher, Ebadi's passion is human rights. She is leading the struggle for basic rights for Iranian women and children. Ebadi believes an Islamic government can also be a democratic government. She has spoken out courageously for reform, despite being imprisoned once by the Iranian government.
Critical Thinking
Why do you think Shirin Ebadi is particularly concerned with the rights of women and children in Iran?