This event is exclusive to Friends of Tortoise
When Iran’s rulers came to power after the 1979 revolution, they promised a prosperous economy, fair distribution of oil wealth and a democratic political system. But the following four decades of an oppressive theocratic regime, international sanctions and corrupt governance has left modern Iran in crisis and isolated from the west. Millions rely on handouts for fuel and food and poverty levels have soared.
As the chasm between the ageing clerics determined to remain in charge and younger protesters demanding change widens, there are signs that change could at least be in sight, if not reach. The nationwide demonstrations triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini have evolved into open calls for the downfall of the regime. A recent opinion poll among 158,000 people in Iran overwhelmingly showed Iranians rejecting the Islamic Republic.
Who are the voices that can help inspire change? Who are the people waiting to lead Iran into the future and what would the transfer of power look like?
This ThinkIn is produced in collaboration with Kayhan Life, an independent media outlet focussing on Iranian economics, politics, culture and society.
editor and invited experts
James Harding
Editor and Founder
Dr Shahriah Ahy
Politcal strategist and commentator
Nazanin Afshin-Jam
Human Rights Activist, author
Pouran Nazemi
Writer, Civil, and Human Rights Activist Recently Released on Furlough