Summary
The ongoing crackdown on dissent in Iran is characterized by severe government repression aimed at stifling political opposition and civil liberties. Following the 2022 ‘Women, Life, Freedom’ uprising, the Iranian regime has intensified its measures against dissent, leading to a significant decline in the country’s Global Freedom Index score, which stood at just 11 out of 100 in 2024.
The Iranian government’s approach to dissent is multifaceted, reflecting a broader strategy to maintain control amid rising domestic discontent. Despite regular elections, the influence of unelected bodies like the Guardian Council undermines democratic processes, resulting in a political environment that is heavily skewed against opposition voices. The regime’s response to protests has included mass arrests, internet shutdowns, and increased repression of women and minority groups. In the context of regional geopolitical shifts, such as Israel’s military actions against Iranian proxies, the Islamic Republic may also resort to further domestic repression as a means of consolidating power and preventing any political openings for dissenters. The combination of military expansion, domestic repression, and potential acceleration of nuclear capabilities illustrates the regime’s determination to maintain its strategic position while suppressing internal challenges.
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