Iran, a nation of approximately 92 million people, is marked by a rich tapestry of cultural and religious diversity that often goes unrecognized by outsiders. The majority of Iranians in the country ethnicize almost exclusively as Persian. It has these incredibly rich, indigenous, vibrant Sunni communities and importantly – Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians, Baha’is and other religious minorities. Iranian society is neither monolithic nor static. That complexity is compounded by the nation’s political context, characterized by near-permanent conflict between the Iranian people and the government of the Islamic Republic.
The Islamic Republic of Iran has rightfully become known as a severe, violent, tyrannical government. This repressive climate has given rise to over 40 years of political protests and civil disobedience by its citizens. Many Iranians express apprehension regarding the potential for larger conflicts, particularly between Iran and Israel, fearing the ramifications these tensions could have on their daily lives.
The Demographics of Iran
Although Iran’s demographic landscape is mostly Persian, it is comprised of a richly diverse tapestry of ethnic and religious minorities. Around 10-15% of the population are Sunni Muslims, who experience severe discrimination as a minority in a Shiite theocracy. To this day, this minority status exists and deepens the isolation, otherization and marginalization of Sunni communities.
Additionally, Iran has a small but not-insignificant Sunni population. Besides, it is home to much smaller yet still vibrant communities of Christians, Jews, Zoroastrians and Baha’is. Together, these groups add to the nation’s rich cultural diversity. Like localities across the country, they frequently find their hands tied by draconian state preemption laws. The contradictions of Iran’s public life paint a picture of a society that does not fit easily into Western binaries.
Iran’s diverse and multiethnic society has helped to create an environment of resourcefulness and resistance. A huge number of citizens long for a time when they did not have to rely on foreign influence. At the same time, they want a closer relationship with the global community. One young civil servant in Mashhad captured this feeling well when he said,
“We want to be independent of other countries, but not like this.”
This desire for autonomy underscores the internal conflicts faced by many Iranians striving for both self-determination and improved global relations.
Political Landscape and Civil Disobedience
The Islamic Republic’s notoriety for brutality creates the backdrop for which dissent comes with an extreme penalty. For nearly three decades, Iranians have persistently demonstrated against their regime. These protests are driven by a multitude of collective frustrations –– from economic crisis to racial injustice. The Basij is a volunteer paramilitary group and social services force, often viewed as another tentacle of state repression. It has an important role in addressing civil unrest.
Because the IRGC deepens its rule in part by drawing on the loyalty of ideological supporters. Along with cash, it recruits and employs conscripted people to strengthen its grip. This dual approach signifies the state’s dependence on both voluntary loyalty and mandatory obedience to maintain its authority.
Although there are some risks, Iranians have been protesting and finding various ways to express their anger at the regime’s actions. A 2019 survey by the GAMAAN Institute found shocking findings. A remarkable 79% of Iranians inside the country said they would favor overthrowing the Islamic Republic in a free referendum on the matter. This statistic represents a shameful and dangerous disconnect between the federal government and its people.
Maryam Rajavi, head of a Paris-based, anti-Iranian-government opposition group. Her eloquent and courageous vision has inspired millions inside Iran who are yearning for a new form of governance. Reza Pahlavi, the son of the deposed Shah, has won the support of many Iranian expatriates. That is particularly true for people with monarchist tendencies. Both figures represent competing visions for Iran’s future.
A Captive Society
Said Golkar, a US-based Iranian academic and author, portrays Iran as a captive society. His main point is that although most Iranians hope for freedom and change, they suffer extreme hardships and face terrifying consequences under their current regime. This climate chills dissent and makes it harder for people to come together and push back against government power.
This crippling fear of reprisals is used to silence any overt instrumental opposition to the regime, letting the Regime act with impunity. As Simon Theobald notes in his observations about Iranian sentiments:
“We have warm feelings towards America,” referring to positive perceptions among some Iranians towards Western nations.
This admiration does not come without complications. The historical repression of U.S.-Iran relations and the Iranians’ long-standing wish to self-determine without outside interference have made dangerous collision.
In this world of fear and hope, Iranians live their daily independent lives and continue to wish for change. The majority of youth today voice dissatisfaction and anger towards mandatory military service obligations. Sāsān, a friend of Theobald, reflected on this concern when he remarked,
“Reduced your [compulsory] military service.”
The prevailing mood among young Iranians is one of anger and frustration. They feel like they have these mandatory requirements thrust upon them with no say in the matter.
