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Shirin Ebadi is an influential Iranian lawyer, human rights activist, and former judge.

Ebadi's legal career has been marked by several trailblazing achievements. In 1969, she became one of the first female judges in Iran and served as president of the city court of Tehran, marking her as the first female President of the Court in the country.

However, with the Islamic Revolution of 1979, conservative clerics insisted that Islam prohibits women from serving as judges, and Ebadi and other female judges were demoted to administrative positions. Undeterred, Ebadi resigned from her administrative post and set up a private law practice, focusing on human rights cases. She became an advocate for women's and children's rights in particular.

Ebadi's work has often put her at odds with the Iranian government, leading to threats, arrests, and a brief imprisonment. Nevertheless, she has continued to be an outspoken advocate for human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in Iran.

In 2003, she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize, becoming the first Iranian woman to receive the honor. The Nobel Committee praised her efforts for democracy and human rights, especially for the rights of women and children, in her country and beyond.

Shirin Ebadi has authored several books and continues to travel and lecture on human rights issues, despite facing challenges and obstacles from the Iranian government. Her courage, resilience, and commitment to justice have made her a global symbol for human rights advocacy.

After the 2009 presidential election in Iran, facing increased threats and pressures, Ebadi left Iran and has since lived in exile. Her law office in Tehran was shut down, and she has faced ongoing challenges, but she continues to be an influential voice on legal and human rights matters both within Iran and internationally. Her work has inspired many to take up the cause of human rights and continues to be a beacon for those seeking justice and equality.