Iran stands at an important crossroads as it continues to address calls for social freedom, especially for their youth. That’s because the nuclear deal expired with his last birthday. In reply, the government of Iran declared that it is ending the limitations on its nuclear program. The government is making real strides to address social issues, going so far as to write legislation that permits women to ride motorcycles. Yet this rare and brave initiative faces a tide of opposition in a deeply conservative hardline-dominated parliament.
In recent weeks, Iranian authorities have shut down several businesses, including clothing shops, for hosting events where young people danced together. These efforts are a continuation of the state’s war on youth. They are particularly acute in the wake of the protests that erupted after Mahsa Amini died in police custody.
Legislative Efforts and Social Repression
The Iranian government has actively sponsored laws designed to increase women’s social liberties. One impressive high-touch community initiative trains women to ride motorcycles. This decision is a step toward accomplishing President Masoud Pezeshkian’s larger goal of genuinely connecting with younger generations. Despite this surprising shift toward reform, the bill sits hung up in parliament, where reactionary lawmakers still hold considerable power.
More than a month ago, President Pezeshkian brought on line a “Gen Z adviser.” He posted the photo on social media, and the photo of his joy went viral. This is a strategic move to appeal to younger Iranians. They have grown more removed from the central powers that be. Despite these overtures, most young people still seem unconvinced, viewing the government’s efforts as inadequate.
“Pragmatists within the state are just offering their own frustration, which is of zero value, and at best pointing out, as the president has, that he won’t enforce laws that the majority of the country opposes, like the hijab law.” – Azadeh Moaveni
The Iranian government’s inability to meet the growing needs of its youth demographic is indicative of a larger trend in Iranian politics. Many young people feel alienated by the state’s conservative policies and stringent social regulations.
Restrictions on Social Gatherings
Over the past few weeks, Iranian authorities have escalated their repressive campaign targeting social events where dance and mingling among genders occur. Dozens of clothing shops and vendors were shut down for holding events in which young men and women danced together in public. Such actions illustrate the state’s persistent efforts to impose strict social norms and suppress expressions of freedom among younger generations.
The military government has doubled down on this – enforcing a complete prohibition on the consumption of alcohol. As a consequence, some citizens are turning to smuggling or producing deadly homemade substances. All these public gatherings are being monitored closely. In response, countless young Iranians have taken to the internet to express their anger over the situation and what they have endured.
A recent viral video captured a lively street music performance in downtown Tehran, showcasing young Iranians enjoying music together despite the risks associated with public gatherings. As this example shows, young people increasingly want to take back their social spaces from the encroachment of government control.
The Generation Gap and Public Sentiment
As Iran’s leadership continues to grapple with new pressures for connection and legitimacy from its youthful population, young Iranians have little confidence in Iran’s ruling powers. Along with economic angst, this rage comes from a sense that the government doesn’t hear or connect with their goals and values.
Sanam Vakil, director of Chatham House’s Middle East and North Africa Programme, noted that Iran’s state struggles to connect with a generation that has grown up in an increasingly digital and globalized world. She observed that current government policies “feel transactional rather than transformative and ultimately are directed to staving off unrest and protests.”
Azadeh Moaveni further emphasized the disconnect between the state’s actions and public sentiment, stating that no faction within Iran’s political landscape enjoys broad support from the younger generation. Yet this misalignment creates a confusing environment for policymakers trying to bring these worlds together.
“From Tehran to the borders of this country.” – Amirreza Ahmadi
Former President Hassan Rouhani criticized hardline lawmakers for advancing legislation that runs counter to the desires of a significant portion of the population. This internal conflict in the executive branch makes it very difficult to pass and implement the strong reforms that would warrant a response to people’s social demands.
