In recent decades, Iran has experienced severe turmoil, marked by intense domestic protests and movements, foreign targeted assassinations, and most recently, the direct impact of two wars. This compounding friction has deeply altered the political and social fabric of the country, creating a dangerously polarized society. Today, Iran faces unprecedented internal fractures: from parts of the diaspora and citizens supporting external war for regime change, to radicals demanding a prolonged conflict in the hope of revenge; from those mobilizing for modern gender equality to those reinforcing conservative, traditional norms; and from advocates of universal free speech to those calling for an authoritarian figure—whether internal or external—to enforce stability. Consequently, the vital work of activists to cultivate dialogue, build trust, and forge new paths of nonviolent resistance has never been more challenging. While the divide used to sit primarily between a rigid state and its opposition, these opposing forces have now deeply permeated the general population. This talk will analyze these conflicting yet structurally similar societal currents in light of Iran's most recent socio-political developments.
Speaker: Elaheh Pooyandeh, Peace Educator and Mediator, Iran
