Iran Protests: Activist Pegah Moshir Pour on Women, GenZ, and the Fight for Freedom
Pegah Moshir Pour, an activist of Iranian-Italian descent, examines the ongoing protests in Iran, which have now entered their 63rd day across more than 100 cities. These demonstrations were ignited by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Jina Amini, who was detained for not adhering to hijab regulations. A significant portion of the protestors, particularly those under 35, who represent 70% of the population, are advocating for greater freedoms. The unrest has historical roots dating back to the 1979 revolution, with previous protests in 2009 and 2019 having been suppressed. Current challenges include a 52.2% inflation rate and political oppression under President Raisi. The regime's harsh measures involve bombings, detentions, and internet blackouts. U.S. officials have urged for a response, while the hashtag #DonnaVitaLibertà has gained popularity.
Key facts
- Protests are in their 63rd consecutive day across over 100 Iranian cities.
- Triggered by the death of Mahsa Jina Amini, a 22-year-old Kurdish woman, after detention by morality police.
- 70% of Iran's population is under 35, driving the protests.
- Economic factors: inflation at 52.2%, unemployment at 10.2%.
- Previous uprisings: 2009 Green Movement and 2019 protests with 1,500 killed.
- Regime tactics include arrests, internet shutdowns, and death sentences for protesters.
- Iranian women have 97% literacy, 65% of university graduates, 70% in STEM.
- U.S. seeks to remove Iran from UN Commission on the Status of Women.
Entities
Artists
- Shirin Neshat
- Marjane Satrapi
Institutions
- United Nations
- UN Security Council
- UN Commission on the Status of Women
- World Economic Forum
- Ernst & Young
- Artribune
Locations
- Iran
- Kurdistan
- Sistan and Baluchestan
- Mashhad
- Qom
- Italy