The Kurds have been marginalized for decades in the world of modern nation states. Federalism for Turkey, Syria and Iran could end the marginalization of the Kurds and create a balance of power between the central governments and Kurdish regional governments. Boosting Kurdish autonomy within democratic structures would check the rise of authoritarianism, increasing prospects for peace and... Continue Reading
The exiled son of Mohammad Reza Shah is plotting to use the democracy movement to ease back into power. This would be terrible for Iran’s democracy movement and could cause the disintegration of the country itself. Continue Reading
Is "minority" a simple term or is its use the root of the problem? The labels we bestow on marginalized groups can not only further diminish their plight and human rights, but also obstruct their progress socially, economically and politically. Continue Reading
Iranian leaders use the examples of Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks to argue that they stand for justice and democracy. This is hypocritical. Iran has oppressed ethnic and religious minorities ruthlessly with the US and the West failing to hold it accountable. Continue Reading
The story of the Kurds in Iran is similar to that of their brethren in Iraq, Turkey, and Syria. Being Kurdish in Iran is tantamount to being a criminal. With few rights and little economic opportunity, the Kurds have few options but to stand defiant against the regime at the risk of death. Continue Reading
