Mahtab Qolizadeh

Mahtab Qolizadeh is an Iranian economic journalist based in Berlin, with nearly two decades of experience covering Iran’s economy, political economy, corruption, energy sector, and the impact of government policies on society.

Beginning her career in 2007, she worked as a Journalist for leading Iranian newspapers before contributing to international media, including BBC Persian, Iran International, Deutsche Welle, Der Tagesspiegel, taz, and MBN. Her work spans investigative reporting, television journalism, and digital storytelling, often under challenging circumstances.

Her independent reporting and outspoken criticism of corruption and repression in Iran brought her into conflict with the Islamic Republic’s authorities. She faced repeated interrogations, detention, a prison sentence, and a court-imposed ban on journalism. Despite these pressures, she continued her work.

Beyond journalism, Qolizadeh has actively advocated for women’s rights, particularly against compulsory hijab and restrictions on women’s access to sports stadiums.

In 2024, she was awarded the Rest & Resilience Fellowship by Reporters Without Borders and the taz Panter Foundation.

Her work reflects a longstanding commitment to independent journalism, freedom of expression, and holding power accountable.