Anniversary of Mahsa Jina Amini’s Death Sparks Reflection and Renewed Activism

Monday marks two years since the tragic death of Mahsa Jina Amini, a young woman whose untimely demise following her arrest by Iran’s morality police ignited a wave of widespread protests across the nation. Her funeral in Saqqez, her hometown in the Kurdish region of Iran, served as the catalyst for a series of demonstrations that quickly spread to cities throughout the country. This time, the unrest was not confined to Tehran and other major urban centers; smaller, more conservative towns also erupted in solidarity.

As days turned into weeks, the number of demonstrators—predominantly from Generation Z—swelled significantly. The rapid progression of events took many by surprise, leading some to speculate about the potential collapse of the regime. Prominent political figures and celebrities united to form opposition coalitions, drafting plans for a future governance framework for Iran.

Solidarity marches and street demonstrations advocating for the rights of Iranian women and girls gained traction, forcing the government to momentarily retreat from enforcing certain restrictive regulations. However, as the movement matured, the demands of the youth became increasingly serious and focused, presenting a clear call for systemic change.

Yet, after several months, the momentum of the movement began to wane. The absence of genuine unity among opposition factions and the lack of substantial support from foreign powers, particularly the United States, contributed to this decline. The regime gradually regained control, launching waves of arbitrary arrests, politically motivated expulsions, and show trials aimed at quelling dissent.

Sudden Shift in Power Sparks Sense of Hope

Despite mounting international pressure and widespread human rights denunciations, the Iranian regime executed numerous protesters and imposed severe sentences on many others. Months later, in alignment with Ebrahim Raisi’s ultra-conservative government, Iran’s parliament voted in favor of the controversial “Hijab and Chastity Bill,” which was met with significant resistance from the populace.

Furthermore, Iran’s military support for the Kremlin during the war in Ukraine further isolated Raisi’s government, which eventually crumbled following his death—an event some speculate was orchestrated under dubious circumstances. With nuclear negotiations stalled and relations with the West, particularly the European Union, at an all-time low, Iran found itself increasingly alienated on the international stage.

Amid a deepening economic crisis and soaring inflation impacting the everyday lives of Iranians, the country appeared ripe for further unrest. However, the unexpected death of Raisi and the call for an early presidential election reignited a flicker of hope among segments of the population.

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The election of the former reformist health minister, particularly his decisive victory over staunch conservative Saeed Jalili in the runoff, brought a fresh wave of optimism to Iran’s disillusioned youth. As Massoud Pezeshkian takes office, many of his supporters are eagerly anticipating his ability to fulfill the promises made during his campaign.

Can Pezeshkian Turn Things Around?

History will ultimately serve as the judge of Pezeshkian’s tenure, but the crucial factor lies in the level of support he garners from Iran’s parallel power structures. Some believe his presidency represents a calculated strategy to maintain the regime’s grip on power. Whether Pezeshkian, viewed by many as a “safety valve” for the system, can successfully navigate a path toward gaining the trust of the youth and women remains uncertain.

Both the international community and the Iranian populace are keenly watching to determine if Pezeshkian’s presidency will signify a turning point or merely perpetuate the established patterns of the Islamic Republic. Ultimately, Iran’s standing on the international stage will require a shift away from warmongering and alliances with aggressors, focusing instead on peacebuilding and returning to a paradigm of “dialogue among civilizations.” The key question remains: Will Pezeshkian’s visit to New York signal a genuine gesture of friendship toward concerned nations, or will it merely reflect the longstanding positions of Iran’s leadership?

As the world looks on, it is clear that Iran must work diligently to rebuild its image and identity—an identity that has been compromised for the ambitions of a select few. Observing how the resumption of “dignified and respectful” dialogue unfolds, particularly in light of Europe’s increasingly complicated relations with Iran due to the Ukraine war, will be crucial.

‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ Lives On

In the lead-up to the anniversary of Amini’s death, major Kurdish parties have called for a general strike, with businesses in numerous Kurdish cities closing their doors in solidarity. This comes amid heightened security measures in Iran’s Kurdish regions, with reports indicating that Amini’s family has faced restrictions preventing them from leaving their home.

The dynamics within families are changing; men are increasingly recognizing the importance of treating women as equals, rather than subordinates. Despite facing brutal repression and various forms of governmental pressure—ranging from fines and social restrictions to the pervasive presence of officers in public spaces—brave young women continue to resist the mandatory hijab requirements whenever possible.

The “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement has not faded; instead, it persists in a new and evolving form, demonstrating the resilience and determination of those advocating for change in Iran.

Babak Kamiar is the Head of the Persian Service at Euronews.
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