Tehran Talks

Shiveh 12: Dr Reza Bagheri and Dr Mohsen Eslami

A debate on Iranian foreign policy during a global transition from an American-led world order to a new multipolar system. The participants discuss the implications of America’s decline and the rise of new powers, such as China and Russia, and how Iran can leverage its growing regional influence and unique ideological principles to secure its place in this new world order. They debate the merits of Iran’s foreign policy, arguing that its principles are based on a combination of realism and idealism and that it has successfully navigated a complex geopolitical landscape. The debate also emphasizes the importance of internal and external consensus-building for Iran to achieve its goals, including strengthening its economic capacity and regional partnerships.

Shiveh 11: Dr. Fahimeh Farhamandpur and Dr. Maryam Ardabili

A discussion between two prominent women scholars, Dr Farhamandpur and Dr Ardabili, about the challenges and opportunities surrounding women's roles in contemporary Iranian society. The conversation focuses on the tension between women's participation in public life and the traditional family values in the Islamic Republic. Dr Farhamandpur argues that the Islamic Revolution initially opened up unprecedented opportunities for women but has not been fully realised due to a failure to adapt traditional structures and understand women's experiences in the contemporary world. Dr Ardabili, on the other hand, highlights the importance of developing new structures and models for women’s participation that acknowledge their multifaceted roles within society while ensuring their full integration into the national fabric. Both scholars stress the urgent need for more excellent female representation in decision-making positions and for creating more inclusive social structures to empower women and realise their full potential.

Shiveh 10: Mohammad Gouchani and Qasem Ravanbakhsh

A debate on the representation of society in the media between Mohammad Gouchani, a journalist and political analyst, and Qasem Ravankhush, an Islamic scholar. The two participants discuss the role of the press in recent protests, the nature of dissent in Iran, the impact of both internal and external media on Iranian society, and the historical context of Iranian politics. The debate explores the influence of specific political figures, such as Ayatollah Khamenei and Mehdi Hashemi, on Iranian society and the role of the press in shaping public opinion.

Shiveh 9: Dr Mohammad-Mehdi Shariatmadar and Dr Mohammad Hossein Zoragh

Two experts, Dr Mohammad-Mehdi Shariatmadar and Dr Mohammad Hussein Zoragh, were invited to analyse the event. The experts discussed the historical context of terrorism in Islam, exploring the role of sectarianism, political opportunism, and foreign influence in fuelling such violence. They also examined the motivations behind the attack and discussed broader themes of security, regional power dynamics, and social cohesion in Iran.

Shiveh 08: Dr. Mehdi Jamshidi and Dr. Abdolhossein Khosropanah

A discussion about cultural governance in Iran: the speakers, Dr Mehdi Jamshidi and Dr Abdolhossein Khosropanah, discuss cultural governance's shortcomings in the Islamic Republic of Iran. They explore the effectiveness of cultural policy and debate whether the issues stem from a lack of qualified leadership or an inadequate understanding of cultural governance. The conversation highlights the challenges of implementing cultural policies, particularly about the concept of hijab. It considers potential solutions, including the role of social movements and the need for a more robust public sphere.