Economic Analysis of the Roots of Political Protests in Iran over the Past Decade from a Political Economy Perspective

Document Type : Research

Authors

1 Department of Political Science, Ra.C., Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran

2 Department of Political Science, Ra.C., Islamic Azad University, Rasht, Iran.

Abstract

This study provides an economic analysis of the roots of political protests in Iran over the past decade from a political economy perspective. The main hypothesis of the study is that the decline in political economy indicators, such as inflation, unemployment, and the decline in GDP, has led to increased political dissatisfaction and tensions in the country. In this study, by examining various protests since the second half of the 1990s, it was found that the decline in economic capacity and the increase in social and economic inequalities, along with inefficient economic policies, have played an important role in the formation and spread of protests. Data analysis showed that key economic indicators such as high inflation, reduced investment, and the depreciation of the national currency have had a direct impact on the increase in public dissatisfaction and the emergence of social protests. An examination of the protests of 2017, 2019, and 2022 also shows that the main root of these unrest can be found in economic problems, which, along with political and social factors, have ignited the protests. The results of this study show that economic factors, especially inequality and the decline in the economic power of the people, have directly led to the increase in political protests in Iran. According to the research findings, focusing on structural economic reforms and paying attention to a more equitable distribution of resources can reduce the intensification of social and political protests and help establish stability.

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Main Subjects

References

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International Political Economy Studies
Volume 8, Issue 1 - Serial Number 1
September 2025
Pages 217-238

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History

  • Receive Date: 01 October 2024
  • Revise Date: 01 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 25 November 2024

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