Publications

January 15, 2025

From marginalization to equality

Report on the state of disability rights in Iran

A needs assessment report mapping disability rights struggles and protests in Iran from 2020 to 2024. Drawing on firsthand accounts, media analysis and legal reviews, it highlights rising demonstrations, enforcement gaps in existing laws and socio‑economic barriers, offering targeted recommendations for policymakers and donors with practical steps.

February 15, 2025

WORKERS RIGHT WATCH - Jul to Dec 2024

A semi-annual report on worker protests and evolving labour regulations in Iran

Fifth in a biannual series, this brief examines 577 labor protests from July–Dec 2024 across 30 cities, driven by soaring inflation, unpaid wages and an energy crisis. It spotlights pensioners, nurses and oil‑sector workers, details state tactics against activists, exposes dismissal and arrest risks, and pinpoints opportunities for CSOs and donors.

January 15, 2025

From marginalization to equality

Report on the state of disability rights in Iran

July 30, 2024

WORKERS RIGHT WATCH - Jan to June 2024

A semi-annual report on worker protests and evolving labour regulations in Iran

Volunteer Activists document 659 protests across 82 Iranian cities in H1 2024. High inflation, unpaid wages, and poor conditions have driven workers and pensioners to the streets, with risks persisting despite a brief easing of repression during the Iranian New Year amid political uncertainty after President Raisi’s death.

March 8, 2024

WORKERS RIGHT WATCH - July to Dec 2023

A semi-annual report on worker protests and evolving labour regulations in Iran

From July–December 2023, over 750 labor protests in 31 Iranian cities revealed mounting unrest. Oil, mining, healthcare, industrial workers, and vocal pensioners demanded change amid dismissals, arrests, and sweeping legal shifts. Strategic organizing and stronger international union ties may boost progress.

December 10, 2023

Our voice will not be silenced

Special Report on the Impact of State Violence on the Iranian Teacher Movement

This report highlights the struggles of Iran’s teachers’ trade unions, facing arrests, job losses, and repression for supporting protests and advocating rights. Despite setbacks, they remained active online and connected with other groups. Recommendations urge global support via training, advocacy, and diplomatic pressure to amplify their cause.

July 28, 2023

WORKERS RIGHT WATCH - Jan to June 2023

A semi-annual report on worker protests and evolving labour regulations in Iran

Iran witnessed a surge in labour protests with 406 events across 70 sectors in 74 cities, marking a fourfold increase from last year. The report details varied protest forms amid widespread repression, arrests, and union crackdowns, providing key insights to bolster policy and advocacy for Iranian workers.

January 30, 2023

WORKERS RIGHT WATCH - July to Dec 2022

A semi-annual report on worker protests and evolving labour regulations in Iran

In Iran, from July-Dec 2022, labour protests surged across sectors. Over a dozen union activists faced dismissals, arrests, and prosecutions, exposing government crackdowns and risky new laws. This inaugural report equips policymakers and CSOs with crucial insights for targeted, impactful interventions.

December 1, 2022

Brains versus brutality

The status of Iran’s student protests and how the international community can help

Examining the rapid spread of Iranian student protests across over a hundred campuses, this policy brief highlights how campus activism challenges authoritarian control and entrenched gender segregation. It underscores the need for international support measures to protect student rights, ensure safety, and promote democratic change.

November 1, 2022

[Analysis Report] Inside Iran

Less-known features of the Iranian protests – and corresponding governmental responses

This report examines Iran's evolving protest landscape: a women-led, youth-driven uprising with multi-ethnic roots and subtle state repression like internet blackouts and forced confessions. A vital resource for policymakers and civil society seeking clear insights to respond effectively.