- For Iran, the end of the theocratic regime is essential for thriving economically, politically, and culturally, and for once again taking its place as a significant global power that contributes positively to world affairs.
- Iran is now in a unique position to embrace its pre-Islamic Zoroastrian heritage, which symbolizes tolerance, coexistence, and respect for the environment—values that many feel are missing under theocratic rule.
- By transitioning to a more open and inclusive system, Iran could project soft power through its rich cultural and historical heritage, educational prowess, and contributions to science and the arts.
Many people in Iran, as well as those who fled after the revolution of 1979, likely have mixed feelings about whether Iran should return to a constitutional monarchy or adopt a system similar to the one under Mohammad Mosaddegh[i]. For Iranians, this is a highly debated issue, both within Iran and among international observers. It touches on political, historical, and ideological matters, and different groups of Iranians hold varying opinions on the country’s future political direction.
However, one thing is certain: the time has come for Iran to reclaim its civilizational place in the world and move beyond its current theocratic system under the Ayatollahs. Though the rule of the Pahlavi dynasty was autocratic and democracy was severely restricted, many people in Iran, including the descendants of Mohammad Reza Shah, recognize that the only way forward is democracy, with the king serving as a figurehead who embodies virtue and integrity.
Although Islam came to Persia nearly 1,400 years ago, what many people don’t know is that there was deep resistance and resentment over the loss of one of the world’s oldest and most influential civilizations, including the Achaemenid and Sassanid Empires, which lasted over 400 years. Even after a millennium, Persians have not forgotten their culture, history, and civilization. Darius and Cyrus are still held in high esteem for their rule and nobility.
In recent times, even Saudi Arabia under reforms led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has made efforts to revive and promote Arab heritage from the pre-Islamic era[ii]. This can be seen in the celebration of Bedouin culture, the creation of museums and festivals that highlight the pre-Islamic past, and even modern architecture that reflects traditional Arabian styles. Saudi Arabia is also investing in tourism projects that showcase sites from the Nabatean civilization, such as Al-Ula, and other ancient cultures that existed before the arrival of Islam.
Iran’s Rich Civilizational Legacy
Iran is the heir to one of the world’s oldest and most influential civilizations, including the Achaemenid Empire, the Sassanid Empire, and the Safavid Dynasty. These periods are remembered for their contributions to governance, art, architecture, philosophy, and science. Iranian poets like Rumi, Hafez, Saadi, and philosophers like Avicenna (Ibn Sina) and Al-Farabi significantly contributed to global culture and knowledge. Many argue that Iran should focus on reviving this intellectual and cultural legacy to re-establish its historical role as a beacon of enlightenment[iii].
Pre-Islamic Identity, Modernization, and Global Integration
Iran is now in a unique position to embrace its pre-Islamic Zoroastrian heritage, which symbolizes tolerance, coexistence, and respect for the environment—values that many feel are missing under theocratic rule[iv]. In doing so, Iran can reclaim its civilizational place in the world by envisioning itself as a vibrant, progressive, and influential nation that draws on its ancient heritage, embraces modernity, and provides greater freedom for its people.
If Iran manages to move beyond theocratic rule, it could thrive economically, politically, and culturally, once again taking its place as a significant global power. At present, Iran’s economy struggles under heavy sanctions, partly due to its clerical leadership’s confrontational foreign policy and nuclear ambitions. Some argue that moving away from theocratic governance toward a secular or more democratic model would facilitate economic growth, attract foreign investment, and reintegrate Iran into the global economy.
Iran also has a young, educated population that increasingly opposes the theocratic rule of the Ayatollahs, which suppresses political freedoms, limits freedom of expression, and enforces strict Islamic law. Many Iranians, especially the younger generations, seek more personal and political freedoms and believe that a post-theocratic Iran could offer greater liberty.
The lack of economic growth and crippling sanctions could lead to violent protests. Additionally, the theocratic rule that drives Iran’s foreign policy is narrow and rooted in Shia Islam, which has isolated the country diplomatically. A shift towards a government that prioritizes national interests and economic development over religious ideology could help mend ties with the international community. This could lead to advancements in science, technology, and innovation. A more secular, globally connected government might better harness Iran’s potential in fields like medicine, engineering, and renewable energy.
It is ironic that, even under theocratic rule, women in Iran have access to higher education, and women make up a large portion of the country’s STEM graduates. However, under the current regime, women face legal and societal restrictions that are out of step with modern values. Reformers argue that a break from theocracy would allow for the advancement of women, which would greatly benefit society.
Historical Shifts in Governance
Iran has had brief periods of democratic movements, notably during the Constitutional Revolution (1905–1911) and the democratic government of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh in the 1950s. Supporters of change argue that Iran has flirted with democracy before, and a return to a more open, secular political system aligns with the aspirations of many Iranians.
Iran has witnessed repeated waves of protests against the clerical establishment, most notably the Green Movement in 2009 and the protests following the death of Mahsa Amini[v] in 2022. These events reflect widespread frustration with the theocracy, as many Iranians desire a government more in tune with modern values and less repressive.
Religious and Ethnic Diversity
Iran is home to a variety of religious and ethnic groups, including Kurds, Azeris, Arabs, Baloch, and religious minorities like Christians, Jews, and Zoroastrians. Theocratic rule based on Shia Islam has often marginalized these groups over the past four decades[vi]. A secular or pluralistic government could promote greater inclusivity by acknowledging the country’s diverse heritage. It’s worth noting that Iran was the second country to recognize the state of Israel in 1950 and was home to the largest Jewish population in West Asia.
Global Civilizational Role
Among West Asian nations, Iran has the potential to lead culturally and intellectually on the world stage. By transitioning to a more open and inclusive system, Iran could project soft power through its rich cultural and historical heritage, educational prowess, and contributions to science and the arts—similar to how ancient Persia was a hub of culture and learning.
As a country with deep historical and civilizational roots, Iran has the potential to play a leadership role in global conversations on culture, philosophy, and governance. Some believe that reclaiming this role is contingent upon shedding its current theocratic rule, which they view as an anachronism that stifles Iran’s true potential.
The idea that Iran “deserves” a leader like Mosaddegh resonates with many who long for democracy, transparency, and sovereignty in Iranian politics. Mosaddegh’s stance against foreign interference, his advocacy for democracy, and his focus on nationalizing Iran’s resources continue to inspire many Iranians today. His legacy remains potent as a symbol of resistance to dictatorship, imperialism, and corruption, and perhaps both democracy and monarchy can coexist.
Conclusion
However, any future political system in Iran will depend on the will of the Iranian people. Changes in governance would require significant domestic and international factors to align. Iran’s political structure, public opinion, and international relations would all play a role in determining whether Iran could shift towards a system resembling its past constitutional monarchy while upholding the democratic ideals Mosaddegh once represented.
Ultimately, Iran’s desire to reclaim its civilizational place in the world involves envisioning itself as a vibrant, progressive, and influential nation that draws on its ancient heritage, embraces modernity, and provides greater freedom for its people. For Iran, the end of the theocratic regime is essential for thriving economically, politically, and culturally, and for once again taking its place as a significant global power that contributes positively to world affairs.
(Balaji is a freelance writer with an MA in History and Pol science and has published articles on defense and strategic affairs and book reviews. He tweets @LaxmanShriram78. Views expressed are the author’s own.)
References:
- [i] https://www.mohammadmossadegh.com/biography/
- [ii] https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/in-bid-to-protect-pre-islamic-heritage-saudi-arabia-upends-religious-dictates-1880569
- [iii] https://anthropology.nd.edu/assets/435488/haijdusierra_1_.pdf
- [iv] https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2017/12/iran-in-transition-the-implications-of-the-islamic-republics-changing-demographics?lang=en
- [v] https://apnews.com/article/iran-mahsa-amini-protests-un-report-366a199119720e69696a123560ef4018
- [vi] https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2024/08/minorities-iran-have-been-disproportionally-impacted-ongoing-crackdown
Balaji is a freelance writer with an MA in History and Political science and has published articles on defence and strategic affairs and book reviews. He tweets @LaxmanShriram78. Views expressed are the author’s own.
Aayush Pal 
Palak Dogra