A primary goal of Volunteer Activists (VA) is to raise global awareness of critical issues in Iran, particularly those involving local civil society organizations (CSOs). Acknowledging the voices of marginalized groups in Iran not only honors their struggle for improved rights but also enhances international awareness and support, which can significantly aid these communities in their efforts. With established connections in Iran, VA is well-positioned to provide essential information.

This report focuses on the challenges faced by indigenous ethnic minorities residing in Iran’s borderlands. Often, discussions about Iran evoke a singular association with Persian identity. However, Iran is a diverse tapestry of various ethnic groups, including Turks, Kurds, Arabs, Baluchis, and others.

The report analyzes the Islamic Republic of Iran’s policies toward ethnic minorities, emphasizing documented violations of their rights, including into the current presidency of Masoud Pezeshkian.

By uncovering these often-overlooked voices, the report aims to illuminate the struggles and aspirations of these communities, advocating for greater recognition and rights within the framework of the Islamic Republic.

The complex and multifaceted landscape of Iranian ethnic minorities necessitated thorough research to accurately depict the current issues and challenges they face based on their ethnicity. To ensure that the perspectives presented reflect the views of ordinary Iranians in border regions, VA conducted in-depth interviews and conversations with local activists who are dedicated to improving the lives of these communities. These discussions not only provided valuable insights but also empowered the activists by amplifying their voices and experiences. Additionally, VA worked closely with human rights organizations in Iran, further enhancing the depth of the findings. To ensure transparency and accessibility, the research includes ample references to academic and other sources, with claims corroborated whenever possible.

From our research, several significant insights regarding the challenges faced by ethnic minority groups in Iran have emerged:
Ethnic minorities in Iran experience discrimination across multiple dimensions, including in socio-economic, political, cultural, linguistic and environmental spheres.
Despite the diversity among various ethnic groups, they often encounter similar issues and challenges.
From a legal standpoint, the insufficient attention to collective rights and, at times, religious laws may weaken the position of ethnic minorities.

Additional findings

1. Environmental degradation due to developmental projects instigated by the central government underlines the livelihoods of ethnic minorities in borderlands.
2. Protesters from non-Persian backgrounds are dealt with much more harshly by security officers and courts while prison life in borderlands with ethnic minorities is harsher than in Persian areas.
3. Tens of thousands of children in Sistan and Baluchestan province are unable to obtain birth certificates, putting them at risk of being considered illegal in the country of their birth.
4. Holding other religious views than those of the Shia government, increases the chance of ethnic minorities getting marginalized and discriminated against.
5. The coming to power of president Pezeshkian has highlighted conflicting views over the usage of native languages in Iran.
6. Many (members) of Iran’s ethnic minorities would like education to be in their native language as a means to preserve their identity and to boost children’s success at school.
7. (State) companies that carry out activities in borderlands often overlook the interests of locals, including by hiring Iranians from predominantly a Persian background or by giving ethnic minorities the worst types of contracts. Besides this, environmental damage is not being addressed.
8. Due to greater levels of unemployment and poverty, populations in borderlands from ethnic minority groups may turn to illegal activities such as cross-border smuggling.
9. Prejudices surrounding non-Persian Iranians need to be addressed and not be reinforced through national tv.
10. Local activists can play a crucial role in supporting their communities by engaging with them and advocating for their rights.
11. Rather than viewing it as a threat, the Iranian government could identify strengths and celebrate the country’s ethnic and cultural diversity. Policies should be implemented to ensure that ethnic minorities have the same opportunities and rights as Persian Iranians.
12. International organizations can help Iran’s ethnic minorities by drawing attention to their plight in international forums and by demanding that their legal rights are more safeguarded.