Biography

H.I.H. Princess Ashraf Pahlavi

1919–2016
Princess of Iran • Advocate • International Representative

Princess Ashraf Pahlavi

H.I.H. Princess Ashraf Pahlavi, twin sister of Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, was one of the most influential women of Iran’s Imperial Family. Her life was marked by courage, public service, women’s rights advocacy, humanitarian work, and a lasting devotion to Iran.

A Life of Service

Courage, Reform, and Devotion to Iran

Princess Ashraf Pahlavi dedicated much of her public life to the advancement of Iranian women, humanitarian service, education, and international engagement.

Early Life and Character

Princess Ashraf Pahlavi was born in Iran in 1919 and grew up during the formative years of the modern Iranian state.

Known for determination, independence, and direct leadership, she became one of the most prominent women of the Imperial Family.

Women’s Rights and Social Welfare

Princess Ashraf devoted a significant part of her life to promoting opportunities for women and expanding educational and social programs.

As honorary president of the Women’s Organization of Iran, she supported initiatives that expanded participation and opportunity.

Women’s Rights

Support for education and broader participation of women.

Social Welfare

Humanitarian support and welfare initiatives.

Human Rights

International engagement and advocacy work.

Humanitarian Service

Princess Ashraf supported charitable programs and social services designed to assist vulnerable communities.

She also promoted literacy and educational opportunities throughout Iran.

International Role and Human Rights

Princess Ashraf represented Iran at the United Nations and participated in major international discussions concerning development and human rights.

Her work contributed to expanding Iran’s international presence.

Exile and Enduring Commitment to Iran

Following the events of 1979, Princess Ashraf continued supporting cultural and historical initiatives connected to Iran.

Despite personal losses, she remained devoted to preserving Iran’s historical identity.

Family

Parents

Reza Shah Pahlavi
Queen Tadj ol-Molouk

Siblings

Princess Shams Pahlavi
Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi
Prince Ali Reza Pahlavi

Children

Shahriar Ghavam
Shahram Shafiq
Azadeh Shafiq

Final Resting Place

Princess Ashraf Pahlavi passed away in 2016 in exile. Her memory continues through the historical record of her public service and dedication to Iran.

Final Resting Place of Princess Ashraf Pahlavi
Final Resting Place of H.I.H. Princess Ashraf Pahlavi

Legacy

Princess Ashraf Pahlavi remains remembered for courage, independence, international engagement, and devotion to Iran.

H.I.H. Princess Ashraf Pahlavi

27 October 1919 — 7 January 2016
Princess of Iran