Maryam Rajavi’s New Movements in France: Growing Controversy, Declining Support, and the Debate Over the NCRI’s Legitimacy

The Role of International Figures

The April 2026 conference featured several European political personalities, including Jean-François Legaret and Herta Däubler-Gmelin, who spoke in favor of democratic change in Iran.

Such appearances are a hallmark of NCRI events. Supporters argue that they demonstrate growing international recognition, while critics counter that:

• Many speakers are no longer in active office
• Participation is often symbolic rather than policy-driven
• It does not translate into official government endorsement

This dynamic highlights the gap between visibility and influence.

The Ten-Point Plan: Vision or Political Branding?

At the heart of Rajavi’s message is her Ten-Point Plan, which outlines:

• Separation of religion and state
• Gender equality
• Abolition of the death penalty
• Free elections

On paper, the plan aligns closely with liberal democratic values. However, analysts often describe it as political branding rather than a detailed governance framework.