Publications

March 30, 2026

Dispelling Popular Fallacies About Power Distribution in Iran

Why the War with Iran Hasn't Led to Regime Change

Five weeks into the US-Israeli war, Iran's regime has not collapsed despite major elite losses and sustained pressure. This policy brief examines why, identifying five persistent myths in Western thinking, from expectations of unified opposition to the belief that civilian suffering turns populations against their government, and argues for strategies that centre Iranian agency

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.

October 1, 2022

[Policy Brief] Call for urgent action

Physical and mental health needs of children participating in the nationwide protests in Iran 2022

Across Iran, teenage protestors face brutal repression that inflicts severe physical and psychological harm. This policy brief highlights their urgent need for international support, calling for mental health services, legal aid, and educational resources to safeguard their rights and future. Clear steps for urgent change are outlined now.

November 1, 2021

Research paper

Longitudinal Situation Analysis of Iranian NGOs

This study examines decades of shifts in Iran’s legal, political, and policy landscapes affecting NGOs. Focusing on reformist, conservative, and securitized eras, it uses interviews to reveal how state policies shape NGO freedoms and risks, urging tailored international support to mitigate unintended security and legal challenges.