Publications

January 16, 2026

Iran in winter 2026

The Convergence of Domestic Crises and External Intervention

In winter 2026 Iran confronts twin crises: mass protests driven by collapsing legitimacy, and weakened regional deterrence after the Twelve-Day War. This brief assesses whether U.S. military intervention would empower domestic change or instead harden repression and instability, concluding that non-military, calibrated strategies offer more durable outcomes.

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.

June 1, 2021

[Policy Brief] Iranian Labour Movement

How Can the International Community More Effectively Support the Iranian Labour Movement?

International support is vital to empowering Iranian workers. This policy brief shows how weak strategic advocacy and absent independent unions hamper effective protests. It calls for diverse tactics, stronger union leadership, and global backing to advance labour rights, offering clear guidance for policy makers and civil society – bold moves now!

March 1, 2021

[Policy Brief] ILO Conventions 87 and 98

Action Required: Appeal to Iran to Ratify ILO Conventions 87 and 98

Despite decades in the ILO, Iran still hasn’t ratified key conventions 87 and 98 that secure workers' rights to organize and bargain collectively. This policy paper calls on the international community to pressure Iran to adopt these measures and improve labor conditions.