Modern Iran: Society, politics & culture
IRAN is a Middle Eastern country located in Western Asia. The country is known for its rich culture and history which dates back thousands of years. In the 21st century, Iran has undergone significant changes in society, politics and culture. This essay will explore the modern Iran and its society, politics and culture in the 21st Century.
The Iranian society is deeply rooted in religion and tradition. The majority of Iranians are Shia Muslims and Islam plays a significant role in their daily lives. However, in the 21st century, Iranian society has become more liberal and open-minded. The younger generation of Iranians is more progressive and willing to challenge traditional values. The education system in Iran has also undergone significant changes in the 21st century. The country has made significant investment in education which has led to a highly educated population. Women, in particular, have made significant strides in education with more women attending universities than men.
The role of women in society has also evolved in the 21st century. Iranian women have become more empowered and have more opportunities to participate in politics and the workforce. However, women still face significant challenges such as discrimination and limited access to healthcare. The politics of Iran is dominated by the Supreme Leader, who is the highest ranking official in the country. The Supreme Leader has ultimate authority over the government and his decisions cannot be challenged. The President, on the other hand, is elected by the people and serves as the head of the government.
In the 21st century, Iran has undergone significant political changes. The election of President Hassan Rouhani in 2013 brought about a more moderate government that was open to engaging with the international community. Rouhani’s government worked towards improving Iran’s relations with the West and signed the historic nuclear deal with the US, UK, France, Germany, China and Russia in 2015. However, the election of President EbrahimRaisi in 2021 signalled a return to a more hardline government. Raisi has been accused of human rights abuses and has a reputation for being an ultra-conservative. His government has been less open to engaging with the West and has taken a more confrontational approach to foreign policy. Iran has a rich cultural heritage which is reflected in its art, music and literature. Persian literature is world-renowned with poets such as Rumi Hafez and Ferdowsi being celebrated around the world.
In the 21st Century, Iranian culture has undergone significant changes. The younger generation of Iranians has embraced Western culture, including music, fashion and social media. The country has seen a surge in underground music scenes and street art which challenge traditional values and push the boundaries of what is acceptable in Iranian society. However, the government has been resistant to these changes and has imposed strict censorship laws to control the spread of Western culture. The use of social media is heavily monitored and access to certain websites is restricted. This has led to a growing divide between the government and the younger generation of Iranians, who are increasingly frustrated with the restrictions placed on their freedom of expression.
Modern Iran is a country in transition. The society is becoming more liberal and the younger generation is challenging traditional values. However, the government is resistant to change and has been accused of human rights abuses. The culture is also evolving with the younger generation embracing Western culture and pushing the boundaries of what is acceptable in Iranian society. The future of Iran is uncertain, but it is clear that the country is at a crossroads and must decide which direction it wants to take.
—The writer, a PhD scholar, is associated with Islamia University Bahawalpur.
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