Postrevolutionary Citizen: the activism of students and women in Iran

Iranian society underwent significant changes after the 1979 revolution. These social transformations encompassed the role of youth in the socio-political spheres, the redefinition of public space, the empowerment of civil society, and new forms of political activism. These changes are due to generational shifts, the universalisation of education, widespread services, and a new mentality towards politics, religion, and individual rights. Today, the Iranian population counts roughly 82 million citizens, half of whom are under 30 years old. People are mainly concentrated in large urban conglomerates, cities that have swallowed up the suburbs without ensuring better living conditions for their inhabitants. Rural areas and peripheral regions still suffer from a state centralization that seems unable to consider their needs. This has widened existing gaps between the centre and the provinces, not just as a geographical distinction but also in terms of opportunities.