Tag Archive for: Poverty In Iran

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Vocational Education Training Centers in Iran

Vocational Education Training In IranVocational education training centers in Iran are giving young people a direct path from the classroom to the job market. These centers teach trades such as fashion design IT and construction, connecting graduates to industries that are actively hiring. The need is urgent: young people are increasingly being pushed to the margins of unemployment, with youth unemployment in Iran among young people ages 15-24 reaching 21.9%, according to the World Bank.

The Skills Gap 

Iran has invested heavily in general education over recent decades, literacy among young men and women now sits at 99%. Vocation training, however, has not kept pace with the same progress. Many VETCs still rely on outdated equipment and teaching methods, weak links to industry are leaving graduates without a clear path to employment.

This mismatch hits young women and low income youth the hardest. Even though women make up nearly 60% of Iran’s university students, only about 14% participate in the labor force. Indicating steep barriers when women try to translate education into paid work. Economic strain compounds the problem: currency swings, internet distributions and regional tensions have all weakened business confidence and slowed hiring over the past year, and employers increasingly favor experienced workers over new graduates.

The stakes go beyond unemployment. According to the World Bank, the share of Iranians living below the upper-middle-income poverty line was projected to rise from 33.2% in 2024 to 35.4% in 2025, with a further increase to 38.8% expected in 2026, driven by economic contraction and high inflation. This means that a growing share of families, many with young people entering the job market, are struggling to meet basic needs. For young people without vocational skills, this makes the transition into stable paid work harder.

A New Partnership 

A joint project between Iran and international partners is now working to minimize this gap. Since 2023, Iran’s Instructor Training Center (ITC) in Karaj, which has trained instructors for the country’s Technical and Vocational Training Organization (TVTO) since 1974, has partnered with UNESCO and South Korea’s international development agency, on the ‘Innovating Iran’s Instructor Training Center.’

The project, which runs through 2028, aims to modernize training centers curricula and facilities so that instructors are able to teach skills that accommodate a modern labor market rather than decades-old industry standards. The program includes training across seven different sectors including agriculture, construction, fashion design and sewing. The initiative also aims to build inclusion measures for women and underprivileged youth directly into its design. The results so far reach beyond the classroom: the project directly trains 35 master trainers, 2,500 trainees and about 250 instructors. Its updated methods reach 15,000 TVTO personnel and more than 1 million trainees across Iran’s wider vocational system each year.

Formal Employment 

Vocational education training centers in Iran do more than fill classroom seats; they change how young Iranians enter the workforce. Research from the Center of Economic policy shows that after Iran faced sweeping international sanctions in 2012, workers in the most exposed industries shifted sharply toward informal employment, which typically leads to lower pay and no access to social protections. Proving that vocational training can help offset this shift, by giving workers skills that transfer directly to formal registered jobs. For a country where economic shocks keep pushing workers into the informal sectors, expanding vocational training is not just an education policy; it’s a buffer against long term economic instability.

Looking Ahead

Vocational education training centers in Iran cannot fix every barrier facing the country’s young job seekers, but they show a workable model for closing the gap between education and employment. The ITC innovation project demonstrates that modernized training paired with real support produces measurable results. As Iran’s youth unemployment crisis deepens, continued investment in Education Training Centers in Iran from both the government and international partners offers one of the clearest paths towards a more resilient economy and a more hopeful future. 

– Alana Breslin

Alana is based in London, UK and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Higher Education in Iran: The Cost of Losing a Generation

Higher Education in Iran

In an increasingly precarious global position, young Iranians are choosing higher education as a path to economic opportunity, liberty and financial stability. However, for many Iranian students, this entails another shift: Recent reports suggest that up to 80% of Iranian students are considering emigration, while the number studying abroad reached a record 110,000 in 2024. Widespread concerns about the limited professional opportunities and restrictions on university life and academic growth have contributed to a growing separation between students and Iranian institutions. This emerging mass exodus highlights the hidden challenges facing higher education in Iran and the importance of supportive academic programs for young scholars.

A Growing Student Exodus

Over the past several decades, Iran has made significant progress in expanding access to higher education. Today, women make up nearly 60% of all university students, compared to just 3% of higher-education enrollment in 1978, reflecting one of the most dramatic increases in female educational attainment in the Middle East. Iranian universities have also increased their production of highly skilled graduates in STEM-oriented fields, like medicine, engineering and science. Despite these advancements, many scholars still choose to pursue their careers abroad; human rights organizations have documented restrictions on activism, disciplinary actions against scholars involved in political advocacy, and the limiting of academic expression and freedom at schools. Simultaneously, future career opportunities are becoming limited due to economic instability, leaving a hyper-competitive job market for highly-trained, highly-educated students.

According to the Financial Times, about 110,000 Iranian students chose to study abroad in places like Turkey, Canada and Germany in 2024, which is the highest number of students to date. While this represents only about 3.4% of Iran’s university student population, the figure has nearly doubled since 2020, reflecting a rapidly growing student exodus. This mass departure of highly educated scholars stunts not only the long-term development of educational institutions, but also entrepreneurship and innovation; graduates are the ones that drive the research required of economic growth and scientific progress.

The Impact on Education in Iran

This student migration can have effects beyond the labor market; universities have been shown to thrive when their students are given full academic freedom to exchange ideas and research. Ongoing concerns about academic freedom, professional opportunities and political restrictions have contributed to growing frustration among some students and scholars, limiting Iran’s ability to retain highly educated talent and fully capitalize on its educational achievements.

On one hand, though female freedoms and rights have increased within Iran, continued restriction through Iran’s religious persecution still affect women’s education, resulting in barriers in the workforce and limitations on academic or professional advancement.

However, many female graduates continue to face barriers in the workforce and limitations on professional advancement. Although women comprise a majority of university students in Iran, only about 14% of women participate in the labor force, highlighting the gap between educational achievement and economic opportunity. Researchers have found that these challenges contribute to the growing number of Iranian women pursuing educational and career opportunities abroad, adding to the country’s broader loss of highly educated talent. According to Iran’s Civil Code, a husband can legally prevent his wife from pursuing a career or opportunity if he believes it conflicts with “family interests” or his sense of dignity. Human Rights Watch argues that this restriction, when combined with barriers to certain occupations and limited protections against workplace discrimination, can render it difficult for highly educated women to participate fully in the workforce even after a performance of academic excellence.

In this case, many experts argue that educational systems do the best when all students are given the liberty to participate fully in the academic and professional sphere, and opportunities are given out based on merit. This means that the expansion of opportunities for both men and women, and their ability to participate equally, improves the educational system and contributes to national development.

Supporting Scholars and Academic Freedom

As of now, many organizations strive to ensure that students and scholars alike possess the ability to continue their education despite political barriers or restrictions on academic freedom. One such organization, Scholars at Risk, works to support threatened scholars and defend academic freedom around the world. Through resources such as advocacy initiatives, emergency assistance and temporary academic placements, the organization helps scholars continue learning, teaching and researching at host universities globally. Additionally, the organization documents attacks on higher education and provides support for students and teachers whose work has been disrupted by political instability, conflict or persecution.

Scholars at Risk has also reported on restrictions affecting academics in Iran and advocated on behalf of Iranian scholars facing threats to their academic freedom. Through these efforts, scholars are given a space to continue contributing to their fields regardless of political or social barriers. The mission of the organization is especially unique: by providing scholars with opportunities and resources to continue their academic journeys safely, it also helps preserve the valuable expertise and knowledge that higher education brings.

Looking Ahead

As shown, the future of higher education in Iran rests not only on the rates of university enrollment, but also on the functionality of education within a future career that provides economic and financial stability. Organizations like Scholars at Risk demonstrate the global cooperation necessary to expand educational opportunity and protect academic freedom. Ultimately, as more and more educated young Iranians choose to seek opportunities abroad, Iran risks losing not only a generation of researchers, innovators, and professionals, but also the people essential to the nation’s long-term development. With their support, students and scholars can continue their work despite political, economic or social barriers, resulting in the preservation of knowledge and advancement of a society. 

– Kiana Raoufiniai

Kiana is based in Franklin, TN, USA and focuses on Business and New Markets, and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Food Systems in Iran: Persisting Through Crisis

Food Systems in IranIn the bazaars of Tehran, a shopkeeper sees his aisles grow quiet as food price inflation reaches 40%. He describes a bleak moment when children enter the store to ask for basic snacks with only 10,000 tomans, which is equal to nearly $0.05 USD. This price point has seemingly disappeared from most local markets. For many families in the capital, the immediate crisis does not involve empty shelves, but rather a collapse in purchasing power that impacts the stability of food systems in Iran. 

Iran, a nation with more than 85 million people, faces significant economic hurdles that impact its ability to maintain a stable food supply. Strengthening food systems in Iran remains a core priority for the state, especially as international sanctions and changing weather patterns place pressure on domestic production. Despite these hurdles, the country continues to implement strategies to enhance the resilience of its agricultural sectors and protect vulnerable populations.

Key Facts About Food Systems in Iran

While challenges clearly exist, the domestic agricultural sector maintains several key strengths:

  • Iran equips approximately 50.1% of its arable land with irrigation systems, which is more than double the global average.
  • The value of food imports accounts for only 10% of total merchandise exports.
  • Per capita food production variability stands at 9.6, indicating a level of production strength that significantly exceeds the global average.

Overcoming Economic and Climate Hurdles

In recent years, two major challenges to food systems in Iran have emerged: intensified international sanctions and severe drought. Unlike many other nations facing insecurity, Iran does not suffer from a physical food shortage. Store shelves across the country remain fully stocked with a wide variety of goods, but international sanctions have reduced foreign exchange earnings, leading to a 40% rise in food price inflation within a single year. 

Such a sharp increase in costs places abundant food out of the financial reach of many families. These economic pressures caused staples like green lentils and vegetable oil to triple in cost. Additionally, water scarcity remains a critical threat as only 2.6% of the land is naturally suitable for agriculture. This makes a nation facing severe drought heavily dependent on irrigation. To ensure citizens have reliable access to food, the government balances domestic farming with necessary imports from abroad.

Government Support for Agriculture

To counter these challenges, the Iranian government provides significant support to the agricultural sector. Currently, the government pays more than 75% of the total cost of chemical fertilizers through subsidies. This financial aid helps farmers maintain output despite the rising costs of equipment and raw materials.

Furthermore, the government offers guaranteed purchase prices for strategic crops like wheat. By allocating energy and fuel at lower prices, the state also reduces the overall operational costs for rural producers. These actions encourage farmers to keep producing during difficult times.

Implementing the Food Voucher Program

One major solution to current challenges within food systems in Iran is the government-led food voucher program. This initiative provides targeted support for the purchase of essential commodities for low-income households. Additionally, earlier this year, officials also raised the monthly minimum wage by 60% to approximately 166 million rials to help families manage rising costs.

While inflation remains a challenge, these cash and non-cash initiatives increase consumer purchasing power and improve the equitable distribution of income. Data shows that these fiscal interventions are necessary to ensure that households can still afford necessities as prices fluctuate.

Looking Ahead

While challenges remain, government efforts drive progress within food systems in Iran. The nation clearly demonstrates its commitment to modernization by prioritizing innovation to increase self-sufficiency in the face of extreme international sanctions. Additionally, government programs like food vouchers and a higher minimum wage protect vulnerable families to ensure that everyone can afford the abundant supply.

– Nikki Rasoulian

Nikki is based in Los Angeles, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Technology for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Hope for Refugees in Iran

Refugees in IranSince early 2026, essential infrastructure in Iran has been disrupted, including health care systems, transportation networks and water services. These disruptions have made it increasingly difficult for humanitarian aid to reach vulnerable populations. Strained supply chains and limited access to basic provisions have further complicated the situation for uprooted communities.

The United Nations (U.N.) estimates suggest that up to 3.2 million people have been displaced within Iran since the beginning of 2026, highlighting the scale of the humanitarian crisis.

As displacement increases, the need for emergency assistance continues to escalate. Forced from their residences, families must contend with shortages of food, shelter and clean water. Many face temporary camps or overcrowded living conditions where access to basic needs is limited. Iran already hosts millions of refugees, and the current unrest is further complicating the situation. Millions of displaced people rely on Iran’s resources.

Hope for Refugees in Iran

Despite these challenges, international organizations have mobilized life-saving support. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) continues to support one of the largest refugee populations in the world. As of 2026, approximately 1.65 million forcibly displaced people reside in Iran, including about 770,000 registered refugees, the majority of whom live in urban areas.

For the past 40 years, the World Food Programme (WFP) has been providing food assistance to refugees in Iran. In addition to supporting refugees, WFP has the capacity to assist the government in crisis situations. In Iran, WFP supports more than 32,500 refugees through a combination of cash transfers, food distributions and school-based nutrition programs.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) continues to provide medical care, disaster relief and community-based support services in affected areas. The IFRC launched a CHF 40 million emergency appeal to support humanitarian operations, aiming to assist up to 5 million people across 30 provinces in Iran. Relief efforts include emergency medical services, shelter, water and sanitation support and mental health services delivered by thousands of staff and volunteers.

Additional Organizations Supporting Refugees in Iran

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) provides legal assistance, shelter and education support to displaced populations. In Iran, NRC has supported more than 40,000 refugees and vulnerable host community members annually through education programs, legal aid and livelihood assistance.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) delivers health care and protection services in crisis-affected settings worldwide. Globally, the IRC reached more than 31.5 million people in 2023, including displaced and refugee populations in countries such as Iran through partner-supported programs.

Relief International works to expand access to education, health care and clean water for vulnerable communities. In Iran, the organization supports a population of nearly 3 million Afghan refugees, providing health care, education, vocational training and small business support. In 2023, its programs in Iran included supporting 18 schools, assisting more than 3,000 children with education and providing cash assistance to approximately 3,000 individuals.

Looking Ahead

As the situation continues to unfold in Iran, international awareness and sustained support will be essential. Humanitarian organizations working across the country continue to demonstrate that coordinated, targeted assistance can reach displaced populations even in complex and fast-moving crises.

– Erin Sian Mongillo

Erin is based in North Haven, CT, USA and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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SDG 6 in Iran Faces Rising Pressure as Water Crisis Deepens

SDG 6 in IranIran’s progress on Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) is facing more challenges as water scarcity, drought and unequal access to sanitation threaten long-term development. The United Nations’ goal is to provide safe drinking water and better hygiene for everyone, but Iran’s water systems are struggling with higher demand, less supply and years of overuse.

Recent SDG 6 data show Iran has improved access to drinking water, but this does not capture the whole situation. The country still faces challenges such as water stress, high agricultural demand and limited freshwater resources.

Water Stress Builds

The challenges for SDG 6 in Iran have grown over the years because of drought, groundwater loss, inefficient irrigation and more demand from cities and industry. Recent reports highlight growing concerns about lower rainfall and declining reservoir levels, especially near Tehran and other populated areas.

Much of Iran is naturally arid or semi-arid, which makes the problem harder to solve. When dry conditions persist, aquifers and reservoirs recover slowly, and the effects are felt across homes, farms and local economies.

Agriculture remains the biggest pressure point. It accounts for the majority of water use in Iran, meaning that SDG 6 in Iran is not only about household access to clean water but also about irrigation, food production and long-term water sustainability.

Unequal Impacts

The effects of water stress are not felt evenly. Rural communities, low-income households and people living in marginalized provinces often face the greatest hardship when supplies tighten. In practice, that can mean inconsistent access to water, more time spent securing basic needs and weaker sanitation conditions.

A 2023 statement on SDG 6 in Iran warned that water policymaking has often lacked inclusion, leaving some communities with less influence over the decisions that shape access to water. Water policy is not only a technical issue but also a question of who benefits when scarce resources are divided.

For vulnerable families, water shortages make it harder to stay clean, raise health risks and add stress to households already facing financial difficulties. This shows how SDG 6 in Iran is linked to reducing poverty, improving health and maintaining social stability.

Signs of Progress

Despite the scale of the challenge, there are signs that progress is possible. UNICEF reported in 2024 that it improved access to safe water in flood-affected areas of Iran, showing that emergency and recovery efforts can help restore essential services when support is available.

UNICEF’s global annual results for 2024 also point to the kind of impact water and sanitation programs can have. Worldwide, 33.3 million people gained access to safe water, 18 million gained access to basic sanitation and 21 million gained access to basic hand hygiene. Those are global figures, but they demonstrate that progress on water access is achievable when governments and aid agencies invest in the right systems.

Lasting progress for SDG 6 in Iran will require better water management, more efficient farming and improved wastewater planning to protect future supplies.

Looking Ahead

The most realistic path forward for SDG 6 in Iran is to use existing water more efficiently. Smarter irrigation, groundwater protection and wider wastewater reuse could reduce pressure on drinking water systems while helping communities stay resilient during dry periods.

Iran also needs better coordination between different sectors. Water policy is connected to food production, urban growth and environmental management, since all of these affect how much water is available and who receives it. The U.N.’s SDG 6 plan highlights the need for this kind of coordinated planning, because single solutions rarely address water insecurity on their own.

For families living with shortages, SDG 6 in Iran is not an abstract development target. It is about whether children can drink safely, whether households can maintain basic hygiene and whether communities can build a more stable future. Progress on SDG 6 in Iran remains a priority, and even modest reforms could have a meaningful impact on daily life.

– Niaz Youssefian

Niaz is based in Cardiff, UK and focuses on Global Health and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Charities Operating in Iran: Supporting Vulnerable Communities

Charities in IranDue to the ongoing conflict, sanctions and high inflation, Iran is currently experiencing severe humanitarian and economic hardship. These circumstances have put increased pressure on social welfare, housing and health care systems, making it difficult for many communities to meet their basic needs. Vulnerable populations are increasingly at risk, as instability persists, especially those with limited access to resources and support systems.

Alongside economic challenges, humanitarian needs have intensified as conflict-related disruption affects infrastructure, supply chains and access to vital services. Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are vital in this situation as they help close gaps, provide emergency aid and support long-term recovery. Through focused humanitarian efforts and community-based support, these five charities operating in Iran are helping to address these issues. 

The Iranian Red Crescent Society

The largest humanitarian organization in the country, the Iranian Red Crescent Society, is essential to emergency response and relief operations. It operates a nationwide network of more than two million volunteers, enabling rapid response to crises such as earthquakes, floods and public health emergencies. In the current situation, the organization has expanded its efforts to support millions of people affected by conflict-related disruptions by providing essential supplies, shelter and urgent medical care.

It also runs more than 500 rehabilitation and health centers, providing ongoing care to vulnerable populations. Its nationwide presence allows it to reach vulnerable populations quickly, particularly in areas where infrastructure has been impacted. 

UNICEF Iran

UNICEF Iran prioritizes protecting children and providing basic services, especially in low-income and vulnerable communities. The organization has helped maintain Iran’s more than 95% childhood immunization rate, supporting millions of children through nationwide vaccination programs. It also helps improve access to education, particularly for marginalized and refugee children, reaching tens of thousands of students annually.

UNICEF’s nutrition and health initiatives provide critical support to families facing economic strain, helping prevent malnutrition and disease. These programs are essential in safeguarding child development during periods of instability. 

UNHCR Iran

Supporting displaced populations in Iran, particularly 3.5 million Afghan refugees and others impacted by regional instability, is a critical responsibility of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The organization provides access to health care, education and financial assistance to hundreds of thousands of refugees each year. Through its Amayesh registration system, many refugees are integrated into national services such as public schooling and primary health care.

UNHCR also distributes cash assistance and essential supplies to help families meet basic needs. Its work is vital in promoting stability and self-reliance among displaced populations amid ongoing regional instability.

The International Committee of the Red Cross

In Iran, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) provides humanitarian protection and assistance to vulnerable populations, especially those affected by conflict and displacement. The ICRC has provided 5,000 non-food items to several Iranians over the years. It works with medical facilities to improve access to essential treatment and supplies, particularly for vulnerable groups.

The organization also focuses on humanitarian protection, including supporting detainees and reconnecting families separated by conflict. Its neutrality allows it to operate effectively in complex and sensitive environments. 

The Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation

One of the most prominent domestic charities in Iran, the Imam Khomeini Relief Committee, focuses on social welfare and poverty alleviation. The foundation offers low-essential services, housing support and financial assistance to more than 4.5 million people as economic conditions deteriorate. The foundation prioritizes vulnerable groups, including women-headed households, orphans and older people.

It also offers employment and self-sufficiency programs to help individuals generate sustainable income. It plays a crucial role in helping communities that are experiencing increased hardship due to social and economic instability. 

Human Impact and the Role of Charities

Data and individual experiences both reflect the humanitarian impact of Iran’s ongoing instability. The Borgen Project spoke with an Iranian woman who now resides in Leith, Edinburgh, but requested to remain anonymous for privacy reasons. She explained how everyday life, especially for women, had already been shaped by economic hardship and limited opportunities since leaving Iran two years ago. 

She explained that these difficulties have been worsened by the current circumstances, with many families now facing greater uncertainty about their access to food, health care and financial security. These conditions are consistent with broader trends, as economic strain and conflict continue to impede vital services and place additional pressure on vulnerable groups. 

“Before, people were struggling, but now it feels like everything is collapsing at once,” she told The Borgen Project in an interview. “There is fear all the time. People are worried about safety, about losing their homes, about how they will survive. Everything is uncertain.” 

Her perspective emphasizes the growing importance of humanitarian organizations in meeting urgent needs. Charities frequently offer vital support when public services are overburdened, especially for those without a steady income or access to aid. 

This reflects the efforts of organizations that continue to provide emergency assistance, medical care and protection services, such as the Iranian Red Crescent Society, UNHCR and UNICEF. These organizations are crucial in helping communities maintain stability and access to basic resources as the demand for assistance grows. 

“In times like this, charities become a lifeline,” she said. “When people are forced from their homes or lose everything, they depend on this support just to get through each day.” 

A Path Forward Through Humanitarian Support 

As conditions across Iran continue to shift, the importance of humanitarian organizations has moved far beyond short-term intervention. These five charities operating in Iran provide not only support but also continuity in times when daily life has been disrupted. They are becoming increasingly central to how communities survive and rebuild in an environment shaped by instability and uncertainty. 

The existence of these charities signifies more than support for many impacted by conflict and financial hardship; it signals that help is still available even in the most challenging circumstances. Their work is part of a broader humanitarian endeavor to respond not only to immediate needs but also to the long-term realities facing vulnerable populations. 

As pressure on communities intensifies, the role of these charities in Iran becomes even more significant. Their ongoing efforts show that, despite substantial challenges, structured and persistent humanitarian action can lay the groundwork for recovery, resilience and a more stable future. 

 – Honey Regev

Honey is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pexels

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The Internet Shutdown in Iran

Internet Shutdown in IranOn Jan. 8, 2026, the internet in Iran took a serious hit as all network services shut down. This issue was brought on by the government establishing its control over Iranians’ internet access. This significantly disrupted Iranians’ access to online communication and digital services. One of the factors that resulted from this situation is a financial hit for certain citizens, as some businesses relied on the internet. Additionally, in an immigration agency, 46 employees had no choice but to go on mandatory leave for the duration of weeks. However, there are solutions to aid this situation, such as help from different countries and a software tool.

Potential European Support

According to the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), help can be offered for the Iranians to acquire connectivity from France and the United Kingdom. France and the U.K. have the capacity to use their own satellite terminals. A significant option to the internet issue in Iran is the Eutelsat satellite terminal. It can be used to transmit online network service from space to regions in need, providing internet connection to Iran. Furthermore, in case there is a risk of another disconnection, Iranians could then send messages offline with the help of Bluetooth technology.

Snowflake: A Circumvention Tool

A way for the Iranians’ situation to improve is with the help of a software tool called Snowflake. Anyone in possession of a device can help through the following steps. 

A volunteer downloads Snowflake software on their device. It is a convenient extension that can be used on all the common browsers that internet users are familiar with. This software works through the Tor Project, which is constructed with the intent to bypass internet censorship. However, the issue is that there are times when the user’s identity can be recognized. It is here that Snowflake becomes necessary.

Once this software is activated, the user’s computer registers with a broker. This broker enables Iranian users to use a volunteer’s location as their own. The volunteer’s Snowflake proxy will serve as the temporary location for the Iranian user.

A significant part of this procedure is that the identities of both parties are concealed and not revealed to the public. The volunteer has the right to know if someone has used their address. However, the Iranian’s personal information is undisclosed. The volunteer outside Iran will then act as a sort of bridge for an Iranian user. This software prioritizes the safety of both users, as their data is secure.

According to Amir Rashidi, this software includes a component called the Starlink satellite system. This system connects to satellites in low-earth orbit, which in turn avoids terrestrial filters.

Rashidi recommended that people who live in Iran or other countries with unstable internet download the Snowflake extension or application when they get the chance. This will help them have internet access in times of crisis.

Looking Ahead

The internet is an important part of daily life. With Iranians losing access, that brings challenges. However, many solutions can be provided with help from outside Iran. Countries like France and the U.K. could use their satellite terminals to provide Iranians with connections. The software tool Snowflake facilitates people outside Iran to help those in Iran. These solutions show that Iranians have opportunities to acquire an internet connection with international support.

– Lara Ibrahim

Lara is based in Créteil, France and focuses on Technology and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything To Know About Hunger in Iran

Hunger In IranHunger in Iran has been a significant national and international concern since the early 1900s. Long-term policy failures rooted in historical experiences have shaped the country’s food security challenges. Major famines during the World Wars created a lasting fear of hunger, which led political leaders after the 1979 Revolution to prioritize food self-sufficiency. To achieve this goal, the government introduced heavy subsidies, guaranteed crop prices and high tariffs on food imports to protect domestic agriculture. While these measures increased food production, they distorted markets and failed to keep pace with population growth. Iran continued to rely on imports for key staples such as wheat, rice and corn, leaving the country vulnerable to sanctions and inflation.

Roots of Hunger

According to the 2025 Global Hunger Index (GHI), Iran ranks 40th out of 123 countries, reflecting moderate hunger levels rather than extreme deprivation. Although the number of people experiencing hunger has declined, food security has become increasingly unstable. Western sanctions linked to Iran’s human rights record and nuclear program have worsened this deterioration by restricting food imports and driving unprecedented food inflation. At the same time, reduced rainfall has weakened agricultural production and intensified existing vulnerabilities.

The COVID-19 pandemic further reduced household incomes and increased unemployment, which limited access to affordable food. These economic pressures placed low-income families at particular risk and made it difficult for many households to obtain even basic nutrition.

Environmental mismanagement has also played a major role, particularly poor water governance. Agriculture consumes the majority of Iran’s water resources because the government heavily subsidizes water.

As a result, farmers have little incentive to conserve water and often rely on inefficient irrigation practices that drive excessive water consumption. These policies have pushed Iran into severe water stress and weakened the country’s ability to ensure stable and affordable food supplies.

Consequences of Hunger and Malnutrition

Rising food prices have made nutritious foods such as meat and dairy increasingly unaffordable. Iran’s Deputy Health Minister, Alireza Raisi, has reported that Iranians consume less than half of the recommended levels of meat and dairy.

Malnutrition does not only appear as undernourishment due to nutrient deficiencies; it also appears as abdominal obesity driven by reliance on starchy, low-quality foods. This dietary pattern has fueled rising obesity rates across Iran and increased the risk of cardiovascular disease and other life-threatening illnesses.

Addressing the Crisis

In present-day Iran, hunger involves more than empty plates. Poor-quality diets, declining health and rising rates of diet-related diseases all reflect the depth of the crisis. Hunger persists because existing systems fail to ensure that all Iranians can access nutritious food at affordable prices. Changing weather patterns, ineffective policies, international sanctions, prolonged drought and economic instability continue to intensify the problem.

Despite these challenges, international organizations and nonprofit groups continue to operate programs that address hunger and support vulnerable populations in Iran.

One of the most significant ongoing efforts in Iran comes from the World Food Programme (WFP), which has supported refugees in the country for decades. Iran hosts approximately 3.4 million refugees, many of whom face severe food insecurity. Through school feeding programs and direct food assistance, WFP reduces pressure on the Iranian government and its limited resources. These programs improve food access for refugees and promote integration into host communities through supporting livelihood and income-generating activities that strengthen economic independence among refugee populations.

Smaller-scale nonprofit organizations also play a critical role in addressing hunger at the community level. Moms Against Poverty, for example, has delivered approximately 2.6 million meals as of 2024 to thousands of Iranian children and families experiencing food insecurity.

Even though the hunger in Iran still requires attention, international organizations and nonprofit groups continue to push forward, working toward a future free from hunger.

– Ameena Khan

Ameena is based in Canberra, Australia, and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Diseases Impacting Iran

Diseases Impacting IranIran’s health system faces a complex mix of challenges. Chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure are rising quickly, while infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV and leishmaniasis still threaten vulnerable regions. These health issues are shaped not only by biology but also by environment, economy and access to care. Pollution, economic pressures and health care gaps make the picture even more complicated. From the air people breathe in Tehran to the food on their tables, these risks shape daily life and long-term well-being. Here is information about the diseases impacting Iran and the efforts in place to address them.

1. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

Chronic diseases, especially heart problems, are the most significant health concern. In 2019, cardiovascular diseases caused about 3.6 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and nearly one-third of all deaths. By 2021, CVD was the second leading cause of death and disability, with 4,367 DALYs per 100,000 people.

The IraPEN program, part of a global initiative, targets prevention through primary care. After one year in pilot regions, results showed a reduction in 10-year CVD risk (from 0.198 to 0.177 in men, and 0.119 to 0.109 in women), lower average blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, alongside a drop in smoking among men from 13.8% to 10.5%.

Still, lifestyle-related risks are rising. As of 2021, Iran had around 80 million NCD cases, with women carrying a slightly higher burden. Obesity, diabetes and hypertension are increasingly common. Experts stress raising awareness, healthier environments and stronger prevention programs to address diseases impacting Iran’s population.

Through community health centers and health houses, the program offers free screenings for blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol; provides early cancer detection (cervical, breast and colorectal); and includes health education and counseling on smoking cessation, healthy diet and physical activity.

2. Infectious Diseases

While many have been controlled, some persist:

  • Tuberculosis and HIV: From 2018–2021, a study tracked 25,011 new TB cases, 2.68% also HIV-positive. People with both had longer treatments and lower success rates (65%) versus TB alone (83.4%).
  • Leishmaniasis: Leishmaniasis still affects Esfahan, Khuzestan and Ilam provinces. Among military personnel, 2,894 cases were reported between 2018 and 2022. In southeast Iran, cases peaked in 2021 at 318, compared to 81 in 2018. Classified as a “neglected tropical disease,” it still causes suffering yearly.

Other infections such as HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, pneumonia, diarrheal diseases and zoonoses remain concerns in Iran and the wider region. These infectious diseases remain among the most persistent health challenges and diseases impacting Iran today.

3. Environmental Health Risks

Air pollution is one of Iran’s deadliest threats, blamed for around 40,000 premature deaths each year. In 2018, treatment costs and lost productivity from PM2.5 accounted for about 3.7% of GDP.

Despite the Clean Air Act (2017), smog still chokes major cities. In January 2025, the government announced plans to relocate the capital, citing Tehran’s deteriorating air quality. Pollution stands alongside infectious and chronic conditions as one of the key issues and health risks impacting Iran.

4. Access to Health Care

Iran faces a “double burden”: chronic disease and lingering infections. According to WHO’s Health at a Glance: Iran (2021), of 514,446 deaths that year, 57% were due to NCDs, 29% from communicable, maternal, perinatal and nutritional conditions. Medicine shortages and sanctions also undermine health care delivery, worsening the burden of diseases impacting Iran’s health care system.

Poverty significantly deepens Iran’s health challenges. Recent reports estimate that the poverty rate in Iran has hovered around 30% between 2019 and 2024—meaning approximately 25 to 26 million people live below the poverty line. Between 2011 and 2020, the share of Iranians living below the international poverty line rose from 20% to 28.1%. Many low-income households cannot afford nutritious food, safe housing or preventive care, increasing their risk of both chronic and infectious diseases.

5. Government Efforts

Iran has expanded IraPEN and, in 2014, formed the National Committee for NCD Prevention and Control to lead a nationwide response to chronic diseases. The committee, chaired by the Ministry of Health and supported by the Supreme Council for Health and Food Security, coordinates across multiple ministries to integrate NCD prevention into primary health care, promote tobacco control and expand early detection programs. It also monitors national progress toward WHO’s global targets, including reducing premature NCD deaths by 30% by 2030.

Looking Ahead

Chronic illnesses dominate, but infectious diseases and environmental hazards still claim lives and drain resources. Programs like IraPEN show promise, but real progress requires better health care, living conditions, education and infrastructure. Together, these factors illustrate the full scale of diseases impacting Iran and shaping its future.

– Katie Williams

Katie is based in the United Kingdom and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Women’s Economic Empowerment in Iran

women’s economic empowerment in IranIn Mashhad, Iran, Fatemeh, a single mother, lost her job during the pandemic and feared she could no longer support her two children. In 2024, she enrolled in a tailoring and legal literacy program at the Atena Women Life Quality Improvement Institute. With a microgrant, she opened a home-based tailoring business that now employs fellow women from her community. Fatemeh’s story reflects a broader movement of women’s economic empowerment in Iran—where grassroots organizations are equipping women with the tools to achieve economic independence through training, legal education and inclusive programs.

Local NGOs Lead the Way

Founded in Tehran in 2013, Atena supports more than 200 families annually. The organization offers training in entrepreneurship, legal rights and mental health counselling to marginalized women, including survivors of domestic violence and women with disabilities. The Bahá’í Institute for Higher Education (BIHE) began in 1987 when Bahá’í students were legally barred from Iranian universities.

As of 2025, it offers undergraduate and graduate programs through home-based classes and online platforms, providing educational opportunities to Bahá’í women otherwise excluded from public institutions. BIHE has earned international recognition for offering training in business, health care and IT to marginalized students across the country.

Economic Skills and Legal Empowerment

Atena provides small grants to women launching microenterprises and holds workshops on inheritance, alimony and child support rights. These legal literacy efforts empower women to claim their entitlements under Iranian law. BIHE graduates like Zahra, who studied graphic design, have been able to build home-based businesses, support their families and expand professional opportunities despite systemic barriers.

In Gilan Province, disability activist and artist Mitra Farazandeh leads programs that help women with disabilities earn a living by selling handmade art. She promotes visibility and economic empowerment through crafts and storytelling.

Overcoming Legal and Political Barriers

Bahá’í students face ongoing arrests and academic exclusion, with Iranian authorities repeatedly raiding BIHE homes, seizing materials and jailing educators. Despite this, BIHE has trained thousands of women over the past three decades, some of whom have earned graduate degrees abroad. Atena operates under close legal scrutiny, coordinating with local social welfare agencies to maintain its license and ensure continued support to vulnerable women.

Atena reports that more than 68% of its graduates increase household income by at least 30% within one year of program completion. BIHE has educated more than 1,000 Bahá’í women since its founding, creating pathways to meaningful work despite systemic exclusion. Farazandeh’s work in disability-led crafts has enabled women to earn income and raise visibility for marginalized artists.

A Path Toward Resilience

By combining vocational training, legal rights education and community support, grassroots organizations like Atena, BIHE and local disability advocates show that women’s economic empowerment in Iran is not only possible but already underway. With greater international support, these models can potentially scale and help even more women build a path out of poverty.

– Meral Ciplak

Meral is based in Edmonton, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Pixabay