About Hiwa

Our vision

Where equality, dignity, and freedom are lived by everyone

Five parts

Hiwa envisions a democratic and secular society where every person enjoys full equality, freedom, and dignity.

1 of 5

Equal dignity

Every person, regardless of ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexuality, religious or political beliefs, enjoys full equality, freedom, and dignity.

2 of 5

Power shared

Power is shared with the people, not concentrated.

3 of 5

Every language, every faith

All communities have the right to study and thrive in their own languages, and to practice their cultures and religions freely.

4 of 5

The rule of law

Chosen by the people through fair, internationally monitored elections: justice binds power, no one stands above the law, and equality before the law is the foundation of freedom.

5 of 5

Diversity as strength

A society that transforms diversity into strength, opportunity into shared prosperity, and stands as a trusted partner in the international community.

All five parts

Where equality, dignity, and freedom are lived by everyone.

Sardar Pashaei

Founder & Head of Athletes

Sardar Pashaei is a Kurdish activist, former world wrestling champion, and a relentless advocate for justice. At just five years old, he experienced oppression firsthand, visiting his imprisoned father every Thursday.


Banned from competing internationally due to his political family background, he eventually fled Iran and became a U.S. citizen. He has dedicated his time and voice to supporting the Woman, Life, Freedom movement, working with U.S. Congress, the European Parliament, and international organizations to raise awareness about the Iranian people’s struggle.


His activism has come at a personal cost—his younger brother and sister have both been arrested and tortured in Iran. Today, he leads Justice & Freedom for Iran, bringing together survivors, activists, and athletes to work toward a democratic and secular Iran.