Rise of liberalism in Iran
Iran: An Age-Old Ally with a New Horizon
Iran has been a long-standing ally of India, with ties dating back 600 years before the Common Era, beyond just cultural exchanges. Iranian influence has permeated Indian art, literature, cuisine, and crafts. During the Mughal era, Persian was the administrative language. Although relations diminished during British rule due to their different interests, historical and cultural connections persist. Today, Iran is a major source of oil for India, and with the Chabahar Port project, India is set to enhance trade routes directly with Iran, Afghanistan, and Central Asian countries, bypassing Pakistan. The ambitious Chabahar Port project, to which India has heavily invested, includes investments in small industries in the region.
A New Beginning for India and Iran
A progressive figure has recently emerged in Iran, promising better bilateral relations with India. Following the helicopter crash death of President Ibrahim Raisi in June and the police custody death of a young woman over hijab issues nearly two years ago, the world was shocked. During Raisi’s tenure, women faced severe punishment for not wearing the hijab, including beatings and death. The new leader, Masoud Pejman, who is 69, supports women’s rights and wishes to leave the choice of wearing or not wearing the hijab to individual discretion. Unlike his hardline predecessors, Pejman advocates for progressive changes, including reforming women’s rights laws, promoting internet freedom, and striving for global peace.
Historical Context of Iranian Reforms
The results are indeed promising in a country historically marked by conflict between hardliners and revolutionaries. In 1979, an initially progressive government was overthrown by hardliners with military support, leading to the exile of the then Prime Minister Shahpour Bakhtiar. Many intellectuals and literary figures fled or were imprisoned and executed. The price of revolution was high for these leaders, as described in detail by writer Nasira Sharma. Despite these struggles, a new era might be emerging with the success of Pejman.
Dual Governance System in Iran
Pejman’s increased political activity followed the death of his wife and daughter in an accident. However, it remains to be seen if he can steer Iran toward liberalism. Iran’s governance system, led by the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (85), is complex. The Guardian Council determines which candidates can run for office and ensures a balance between reformists and hardliners. Even if reformist laws are passed, they must receive final approval from the Guardian Council.
Iran’s Relationship with the West
Pejman has called for renewed negotiations with Western countries over the 2015 nuclear deal, unlike his rival hardliner Saeed Jalili, who opposes any changes to the status quo and has strong support from Iran’s most powerful religious communities. As the world witnesses shifts in global power dynamics, with China and Russia aligning on one side and Europe and the US on the other, Iran could play a significant role in balancing regional issues, particularly concerning Afghanistan and Pakistan. As right-wing forces rise in Europe and face setbacks, there is a global shift toward cooperation over extremism.
Political Change and Progress
Iranian poet Sabir Haka’s poem titled “Politics” reflects on the ease with which significant changes can be made, and how political activism can transform laborers into political actors, ultimately highlighting the ongoing struggle for change.
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