Reza Pahlavi Receives 2026 Freedom Prize in Frankfurt as Thousands of Demonstrate in Germany

Thousands of members of the Iranian diaspora and supporters of exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi gathered in Frankfurt on Saturday as the son of Iran’s last Shah received the 2026 Freedom Prize of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom. The ceremony, held at the historic St. Paul’s Church (Paulskirche), placed Iran’s political future, democracy, civil liberties and the activities of the Iranian opposition at the centre of international attention.

The award was formally presented to the Iranian people in recognition of their efforts to secure freedom, human rights, civil rights and democracy. Reza Pahlavi accepted the distinction in a representative capacity, with the intention that it would eventually be transferred to freely elected representatives of Iran.

The event attracted significant attention from Iranian communities across Europe, with supporters travelling to Frankfurt to express solidarity with the opposition figure. Demonstrators gathered in the city centre, displaying Iranian flags featuring the historic Lion and Sun emblem, portraits of Reza Pahlavi and banners calling for political change in Iran.

Emotional scenes unfolded as supporters welcomed the exiled Crown Prince. Some demonstrators cried during the rally, while others waved flags and held placards expressing their hopes for a democratic future for their country.

The ceremony also attracted political debate and opposing demonstrations, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the Iranian diaspora concerning the country’s future political system and the role of Reza Pahlavi.

According to German media reports, approximately 5,000 people were demonstrating across Frankfurt around midday, with a large proportion supporting Pahlavi. Additional gatherings were planned throughout the city.

November 7, 2026 | 3:11 pm