Shirin Ebadi Quotes & Sayings (Page 2)

“We must not enable anyone to impose his personal view regarding religion on others by force, oppression, or pressure.”

“What is important is that one utilizes one's intellect and not to be 100 percent sure about one's convictions. One should always leave room for doubt.”

“I hope the example of Saddam Hussein will give a lesson to leaders of other countries where human rights are not respected.”

“Sadly the job security of lawyers has been ruined, so they are less willing to defend political defendants.”

“Lawyers have a dangerous job in Iran.”

“The Iranian government intends to use the nuclear program for peaceful purposes, but must convince international public opinion of that.”

“Democracy doesn't recognize east or west; democracy is simply people's will. Therefore, I do not acknowledge that there are various models of democracy; there is just democracy itself.”

“The international community can't trust such a government. If the government of Iran wants the international community to believe in what it says, it should try to bring true, pure democracy into the country. The political solution to the energy issue or the nuclear case is democracy in Iran.”

“The condition of women in Islamic societies as a whole is also far from desirable. However, we should acknowledge that there are differences. In certain countries, the conditions are much better and in others much worse.”

“The younger generation is essentially idealistic. This applies to the Iranian youth as well. In addition, the youth in Iran face certain difficulties... the Iranian youth need more freedom. They are struggling for more freedom and democracy. This commands great respect.”