Iran

State of the Order: Assessing February 2021

The State of the Order breaks down the month's most important events impacting the democratic world order.

Larijani has credentials but not charisma as Iran’s presidential candidate

By Barbara Slavin

Ali Larijani is a veteran official in the Islamic Republic whose long service in a variety of key posts would make him a plausible—if not especially charismatic—candidate in Iran’s upcoming June 18 presidential elections.

This Iranian pop song is “more dangerous than polio”

By Holly Dagres

In the days following the release of the 'Tehran Tokyo' teaser, Iranian politicians and conservatives called for the video to be censored because they claimed that it presented pornography to children.

Middle class Iranians sought to remake their nation. Here’s how they were betrayed.

By Borzou Daragahi

There are broad continuities in the themes that have shaped Iran’s politics and society over the last century. The influence of Iran’s middle classes, who have at times aligned themselves with or steadfastly opposed those in power, has waxed and waned.

As Iran enters a new century, many old challenges remain

By Nadereh Chamlou

At the dawn of their new century, Iranians still aspire for an accountable and effective government, social inclusion and economic security, and a productive and respectful collaboration with foreign powers.

Reza Shah: Development without democracy

By Shaul Bakhash

Reza Shah, a middle-ranking officer in Iran’s Cossack Brigade, seized power in 1921 and, for the next twenty years, dominated and transformed Iran as commander of the army, prime minister, and finally king.

Multiple elections could boost hardline victories in Iran

By Anonymous

There are no definite candidates yet in the reformist-moderate camp for obvious reasons—they are likely to lose. Unless there is a drastic change in the political or economic atmosphere that can guarantee a bigger turnout, the candidates of this camp do not have any chance of winning.