“Woman Life Freedom” – Survey

Written by ACI in 23 October 24

The survey data reveals a burgeoning civil society movement within Iranian society, navigating the challenges of domestic oppression and violence while striving for greater democracy and modernisation. Empowered by the internet and social media, civil society has emerged as a key actor in this transformative process. However, to realize its full potential, the movement requires a more coordinated approach, including the development of a coherent organizational structure, the cultivation of international alliances, and the articulation of a clear vision for the future. By providing these essential elements of support, the international community can contribute significantly to the advancement of this vital movement, helping it to overcome the obstacles posed by domestic oppression and violence …

An Assessment of Identity Trends and Today and Tomorrow of Iran

Key Findings

The survey titled “Woman Life Freedom” –  An Assessment of Identity Trends and  Today and Tomorrow of Iran provides a clear picture of the fundamental shifts in beliefs, identities, and attitudes within Iranian society. Conducted online over a 21-day period from February 1 to 22, 2024, the survey garnered 1881 responses from both within and outside of Iran.

Key findings from the survey include:

  • A significant decline in religious beliefs: This decline indicates a shift from religious identity towards other identities such as national and ethnic identity.
  • Strengthening of national and ethnic identities: The majority of respondents rooted their identities in Iran’s history and culture, placing less emphasis on religious identity.
  • A crisis of legitimacy: The political system faces a crisis of legitimacy as a result of widespread public distrust and perceptions of undemocratic governance.
  • Oligarchic tendencies: The data suggests a strong belief among the respondents that the political system is characterized by oligarchic tendencies, with power concentrated in the hands of a few.
  • Structural inequalities and insecurity: Respondents reported widespread experiences of discrimination, particularly against women, as well as significant concerns about economic and job security, suggesting underlying structural inequalities.

Given the widespread dissatisfaction, perceptions of injustice, and discrimination revealed in the survey’s comparative analysis, the emergence of a grassroots movement such as ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ was not unexpected. The courage demonstrated by young people and women in the face of severe repression during street protests garnered significant and unprecedented international attention within the first few months.

Our findings indicate that the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ movement has faced significant challenges, including severe repression, economic constraints, and a lack of a cohesive structure. Social media has played a pivotal role in mobilizing the public and disseminating information. To strengthen the movement and achieve its goals, there is a need for a unified structure, increased coordination among domestic and international activists, a clear vision for the future, and sustained international support

Conclusion:

The survey results indicate that Iranian society is undergoing a transition towards a more modern and democratic society. The internet and social media play a pivotal role in facilitating communication and providing free access to information. Civil society has a crucial role to play in this transition and should strive to achieve this goal through sustained planning and effort.

Recommendations for International Action:

Based on the survey findings that reveal increasing dissatisfaction and widespread distrust of the political system, and aiming to support the aspirations of the Iranian people, given the crucial role of the internet and social media in facilitating peaceful dialogue between Iranians and the international community, the following requests can be made to the international community:

  1. Support for unrestricted internet access: Assisting in circumventing internet filtering and providing secure infrastructure.
  2. Targeted sanctions: Imposing targeted sanctions on officials and institutions responsible for human rights abuses in Iran.
  3. Human rights protection:
    • Establishing international mechanisms to monitor the human rights situation in Iran.
  4. Support for victims and survivors of state violence:
    • Providing humanitarian assistance to victims and survivors.
    • Supporting asylum seekers, refugees and displaced persons.
    • Establishing mechanisms to protect witnesses.
  5. Support for civil society:
    • Support organizations and activists working for democratic change in Iran.
    • Establish funds to provide financial assistance to the families of those imprisoned or on strike.
    • Promote the development of independent media and freedom of expression.
    • Advocate for the release of political prisoners and the respect for human rights.
  6. Condemnation of censorship and repression: Issuing condemnatory statements, sanctioning companies producing censorship equipment, and supporting journalists and civil activists.