Introduction
Discrimination against minorities in Iran is pervasive and worsening every day. Discriminatory practices are exacerbated by continued inaction on the part of authorities, encouragement by the state, as well as deliberate attacks on people whose identities do not conform with state parameters on ‘national identity.’ This discrimination has permeated all aspects of life, including access to justice, housing, education, health, employment, the ability to participate freely in public and political life, and access to services. Minorities are also disproportionately subjected to arbitrary arrest, prolonged imprisonment, hate speech and various forms of violence.
The longstanding marginalisation and discrimination of minorities in Iran has contributed to increasing disillusionment with the state, evinced perhaps by the numerous protests that have taken place since 2017, in which minorities have always been at the forefront. There is also mounting tension between authorities and marginalised groups, with the latter demanding that their voices be heard, and their rights vindicated.
Although the political future of Iran remains uncertain and the pathway to change is unclear at the time of writing, peaceful futures and equitable outcomes for all, including minorities, can be secured if efforts are taken to address the longstanding and structural discrimination that exists at all levels of society. It is in this context that a law on antidiscrimination for Iran has become critical, now more than ever. However, stakeholders and advocates must be conscious of the long journey to the passing of such a law, and the restrictive space they will inevitably operate in. It has become necessary, therefore, to focus collective energy, resources and expertise, not only on the drafting of a law but also on advocating, lobbying and preparing the ground for change.
This toolkit is a comprehensive analysis of the ways in which Iranian lawyers leading advocacy efforts may commence and run advocacy campaigns. It also provides recommendations on the design and substance of an antidiscrimination law, offering context-specific solutions to possible barriers advocates and activists may face in this process. Overall, the purpose of this toolkit is to provide Iranian lawyers with practical solutions and tangible tools to navigate current circumstances, which could well be a turning point for Iran’s minorities.