Iran Analysis: Thoughts on Resistance and the Green Movement (Salim/Nasiri)

In the end, it is important to note that every Iranian person is entitled to the inherent right of self-defense under international law. This right is clearly provided in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international instruments.

The uprising in Tunisia and Egypt teach us that one need not ask for permission from oppressors when fighting for fundamental transformations. It is rather the spontaneous and mass presence of civilians on the streets that can change the balance of power to the advantage of the population. These experiences also teach us that one should not direct oneself to the oppressors to guarantee fundamental rights. Instead, people should clearly recognize their strengths and potential, and pursue their struggle with self-confidence. Because where danger is, the power of salvation also grows.

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Iran Essay Contest (2nd Place): The Prospect of Change

If the Green Movement will follow the examples of the social movement in the Arab countries, widening its appeal and determining its political, economic and social platform, the situation might turn favorably for the opposition movement. It is also particularly important to not exclude the key role that the international community and its coercive vs. engagement policy towards the Islamic Republic play in the domestic game. The progressive substitution of the dual track policy of sanctions and negotiations with an approach more oriented towards dealing with the violation of human rights in Iran might completely change the cards on the table.

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Iran Essay Contest (3rd Place): Integrating Human Rights --- Politics, Sexual Orientation, and Poverty

This is not just a problem for the excluded group in question, be it sexual minorities or the poor. It has implications for how our civil society envisions a new culture that is respectful of difference, and values equality and diversity. We cannot claim to work for creating a human-rights oriented system that would respect the fundamental rights of its citizens to personhood, privacy, freedom and equality, but remain indifferent to --- worse yet, supportive of --- structures that either fail to recognize the right of all humans to human rights or fall short of empowering all humans to meaningfully claim and exercise their rights.

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Iran Essay Contest: "What are the Ways to Bring About Democratic Change?"

The essay competition hosted by Iranian Progressive Youth --- "an independent association which aims at establishing a platform for political, cultural and social activities with special focus on the Iranian struggle for freedom and democracy" --- is still open.

The question to be answered: "What are the ways to bring about democratic change in Iran?"

Authors are invited to consider: 1. the role and prospect of Civil Society; 2. the influence of Political Structure; and 3. the position and responsibility of International Community.

EA will be published the winning essay, which will receive  €500 and the IPY Essay Award. The second- and third-place essays will receive €250 and €150, respectively.

The deadline for submissions is 10 April. More details are available on the IPY website.