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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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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

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What Does the Israel-Iran War Mean for Iranians

Israel and Rural Iran: What Does the Israel-Iran War Mean for Iranians Early in the morning on June 22, 2025, the world received the news that the United States (U.S.) military had bombed three Iranian nuclear sites. In the days after, there were reports about what Iranian retaliation could look like against the U.S. and Israel. In the heat of the situation, many Iranians living in poverty and removed from the fighting, face additional hardships. Reports indicate that these vulnerable citizens have received limited attention compared to the broader coverage of the Israel-Iran War.

Economy Pre-Conflict

Iran’s economy, like the majority of the Middle East, depends upon access to power sources: natural gas and oil. These resources are invaluable for Iran and have become its most powerful bargaining chip throughout the Israel-Iran War. 

Oil and gas power the Iranian economy and make it an area of interest for the Western world. As of 2024, Iran’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was roughly $434.24 billion. While the overall GDP is significant, different units of measurement paint a different picture for the common people living in Iran. When examining Iran’s GDP per capita, the country ranks 117th out of nearly 200. Trade sanctions have worn Iran’s economy down. As a result, it cannot hold the weight of an all-out war. While oil makes up 17% of Iran’s exports and its energy sources bring in a great deal of money, the sanctions greatly limit the economic growth of Iran. Every plan to recover the Iranian economy involves improving relations with the Western world to get the sanctions lifted. 

Iran Focus, a nonprofit news outlet that reports on Iran, Iraq and the Middle East as a whole, reported as recently as June 9, 2025, that “in Tehran, 55% of individuals’ income is spent on housing” as inflation batters and bruises civilians. Nearly 75% of Iranians live below the poverty line and as the Israel-Iran War progresses, the percentage could rise. 

Impact of the War

Already, the people of Iran are struggling to provide for themselves and their families. The ongoing conflict means even their lives are at risk. On June 15, 2025, the number of deceased Iranians was roughly 224. Civilians have fled from Tehran in droves and Iran’s retaliation could worsen financial hardship. According to The National, another news source that is also reporting on Iran, state collapse could be imminent for the nation. The rial, the currency of Iran, could lose more value. The Israel-Iran war has driven Iran to a tipping point. 

Humanitarian Aid in Iran

The most immediate danger to the Iranian people is the Israel-Iran War. In the days after the U.S. allied itself with Israel, global headlines focused on the potential for escalating violence. Thankfully, de-escalation has been orchestrated and the back-and-forth bombing has come to a rest. 

Nonprofit organizations are working hard to help the struggling people of Iran. The Center for Human Rights in Iran offers consistent coverage of the ongoing events while focusing on civilians and those who are directly in the line of fire. Its focus is on documenting all human rights issues in Iran and it has been in action since 2008. 

Another organization that has global reach but still operates within Iran is Relief International. Relief International targets the damage caused by natural disasters while also building schools and offering financial assistance to struggling citizens. Relief International has a collection of testimonies from people the organization has directly helped; such reminders of good news can serve as a resource for motivation.

Looking Ahead

The Israel-Iran ceasefire remains fragile and recent events show how quickly tensions can escalate. Yet, there is still reason for hope. Humanitarian organizations working in Iran continue to prioritize the needs of civilians, many of whom have little influence over the conflict but bear its heaviest burdens. Their efforts highlight the importance of international attention and support in creating a path toward stability.

– Peyton Worsham

Peyton is based in Jacksonville, FL, USA and focuses on Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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US Sanctions and Poverty in Iran

How US Sanctions Have Affected Poverty Rates in IranSince the United States (U.S.) reinstated economic sanctions on Iran in May 2018, following President Donald Trump’s withdrawal from a landmark nuclear deal, the country has faced a severe economic recession. These sanctions have significantly worsened poverty rates in Iran, driving inflation, devaluing the national currency and reducing access to essential goods. As unemployment rises and public services decline, low-income families struggle to meet basic needs, pushing more citizens into poverty.

The Aim of the Sanctions

The U.S. sanctions froze Iranian government assets in the U.S. and targeted nearly every sector of Iran’s economy, including oil, banking, insurance, arms trade and financial services. These measures cut off Iran’s access to overseas assets and hard currency. Sanctions also restricted third-party transactions using Iran’s currency, the rial, while designating Iran’s Central Bank as a foreign terrorist organization.  These sanctions triggered a 4.8% contraction in Iran’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018, with the unemployment rate rising from 14.5% in 2018 to 16.8% in 2019.

Impact on Oil Exports

The sanctions severely limited Iran’s ability to export oil, a key source of revenue. Before the sanctions, Iran produced about 3.8 million barrels per day (bpd) and exported around 2.3 million bpd. By April 2019, exports had plummeted to roughly 1 million bpd, cutting billions from government revenue. This decline also reduced Iran’s foreign exchange earnings. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimated Iran’s foreign currency reserves at $86 billion—20% below 2013 levels.

Rising Food and Fuel Costs

The value of the rial has halved since the sanctions’ reinstatement, increasing demand for foreign currency. This erosion of savings has slashed purchasing power. The World Bank reported a sharp rise in food prices, further burdening vulnerable families. Although poverty rates in Iran had declined for two decades, they began rising again in 2014. As of 2024, the poverty rate remains high, with an estimated 40% of the population living below the poverty line. The economic crisis has also impacted nutrition. By 2014, the lowest-income 20% of Iranians consumed fewer than the 2,100 daily calories required for basic nutrition, while protein intake fell below the 60 grams needed for an average-weight adult by 2018.

Deteriorating Living Standards

Sanctions have also undermined access to health care, limiting the availability of essential medicines for epilepsy and chemotherapy treatments. These shortages have disproportionately affected low-income families, women, children and patients with chronic illnesses.

Potential Solutions and Future Prospects

Efforts to revive the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) stalled in 2022, but renewed negotiations could offer a path forward. Some Iranian policymakers advocate reducing economic ties with the West to limit future vulnerability to sanctions. In the absence of diplomatic progress, Iran may continue strengthening economic ties with Russia and China, the latter remaining a key buyer of Iranian oil. Collaborations with neighboring Middle Eastern countries could also create economic synergies that bypass sanctions. Establishing medical supply chains, facilitating food aid programs or launching United Nations (U.N.)-backed relief initiatives could alleviate humanitarian suffering while stabilizing the economy.

A Path Forward

The prospect of further sanctions under Trump’s administration threatens to deepen the country’s economic crisis. Without international support or policy shifts, poverty will likely worsen in Iran. However, combining humanitarian aid, international partnerships and domestic reforms could mitigate the impact. Initiatives focused on stabilizing the currency, reducing inflation and expanding job opportunities could be crucial in improving the quality of life for millions of Iranians.

– Amani Almasri

Amani is based in Durham, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Everything You Need to Know about Poverty in Iran

Poverty in IranDespite Iran being a resource-rich country, 28.1% of the population lives in poverty with an additional 40% of the population being at risk of falling into poverty. Most of the country’s poverty is concentrated in rural areas where almost 50% of the population lives in poverty with a large segment of them having no access to modern infrastructure. The socioeconomic gap between the rural and urban populations is significant, however, where they intersect is that both populations’ purchasing power is decreasing. Economic sanctions and government corruption are factors that play a role in why the majority of the Iranian population is poor. Here is everything you need to know about poverty in Iran.

Economic Sanctions and Corruption

The United States has implemented sanctions as an attempt to curb Iran’s nuclear program and regional influence and as punishment for the country’s human rights violations and support for terrorist organizations in the region. However, these sanctions have been shown to exacerbate poverty in Iran.

Western sanctions have put Iran in economic isolation and have harmed crucial parts of the economy such as oil and banking. Oil in particular is the backbone of Iran’s economy and sanctions have restricted oil production and exports which in turn has led to a loss of government revenue. The country is also enduring mass inflation, leading to the prices of basic necessities like food skyrocketing and has in turn reduced the purchasing power of low and middle-income Iranians.

While sanctions play a major role in exacerbating poverty in Iran, the actions of the government play an equally large role. The economy operates as a kleptocracy where the government owns most corporations and economic projects which has fostered an environment where one’s political connections largely determine their access to economic opportunities. Additionally, taxpayer money often goes into the pockets of government officials and those close to them. As a result of misallocated public funds, little goes into infrastructure improvement and social services which in turn curbs any prospects of poverty alleviation.

Alleviating Poverty in Iran

Despite sanctions and government corruption negatively impacting the economy, some organizations inside and outside the country aim to alleviate poverty in Iran.

Established in 1994, the Child Foundation regularly creates campaigns to help children access education and pay for medical treatments and campaigns for citizens affected by natural disasters. Its financial reports showcase that 75% of the it sends to Iran goes towards food and cash for those the organization helps, and 92% of the money that remains in the United States goes towards the costs of creating programs.

The World Food Program (WFP) assists 3.4 million refugees in Iran. It covers 80% of the food necessities for male-headed households and 100% of food costs for female-headed households. Additionally, the organization has supplied food to 8,000 refugee children and 600 teachers. This initiative helps families save money to spend on other necessities while their children receive food at school.

Founded in 1979, the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation (IKRF) helps 4.4 million Iranians who live under the poverty line with basic needs including water, food, housing and medical bills. However, it has received criticism for its lack of financial transparency.

The Future

Considering the factors contributing to Iran’s poverty, the future looks uncertain with government corruption likely to persist as the Islamic Republic does not want to compromise its domestic policies, even for ease of sanctions.

In 2015, the U.S. lifted sanctions on Iran which positively impacted its economy by allowing it to return to the global oil market and allowed for them to trade with a wider range of countries. The Trump administration reimplemented the sanctions which put Iran back into economic isolation leading to a loss of revenue for the country. Kamala Harris on the other hand holds the same views as the Obama administration, stating that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) is one of the biggest achievements of the democratic party, meaning that she may likely lift sanctions if she were to win the election, according to DW.

– Floria Persis

Floria is based in London, UK and focuses on Good News and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Bahar Charity: Combating Child Poverty in Iran

Child Poverty in IranChild poverty remains a pressing issue in Iran, affecting the lives of countless children and families. Material poverty is particularly prevalent in Iran, with significant disparities in access to essential services and resources, particularly in rural areas. Around 30% of the Iranian population lives in poverty, which leaves many children at risk. Rural children, particularly girls, face greater barriers to accessing education, health care and adequate nutrition, creating a cycle of poverty that is difficult to break.

This widespread poverty has far-reaching implications, including limited access to quality education, health care and social services, all of which are critical for the healthy development of children. Against this backdrop, organizations like Bahar Charity, a student-run group at the University of Toronto, Canada, have stepped in to make a tangible difference in the lives of disadvantaged children in Iran.

Bahar Charity

Founded in 2016, Bahar Charity was created by a group of friends in response to a natural disaster in Iran. This event spurred them to take action. They created a platform through which they could provide meaningful support to people back in their home country. As Nafiseh Ghoroghchian, the current president of Bahar Charity, explains, “Our vision is to build bridges between the North American, especially the Iranian community and Iran… to keep awareness of the challenges back home and provide help where we can.”

The charity aims to connect the Iranian diaspora in Canada, particularly the students and alums at the University of Toronto, with communities in Iran to support children who are struggling with poverty. The organization strives to foster a sense of solidarity and empathy among young Iranian Canadians while providing tangible assistance to those in need.

Partnerships and Collaborations

One of the most significant partnerships that Bahar Charity has developed is with Paradise Charity. This registered Canadian charity has been operating since 2001. Paradise Charity collaborates with nine nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) across different provinces in Iran, identifying underprivileged children and connecting them with sponsors in Canada. This partnership has allowed Bahar Charity to reach a wider audience and bring more support to the children in need.

Through this collaboration, Bahar Charity has established a child sponsorship program. It enables donors to sponsor a child in Iran for a minimum of $30 per month. The funds are primarily used to support the child’s education but can also be allocated for other necessities, such as health care, therapy or even household needs like repairing essential appliances. As of now, Bahar Charity has successfully gathered around 40 sponsors for approximately 60 children, ensuring that they receive continuous support for their education and well-being.

Key Initiatives and Programs

Bahar Charity has developed several initiatives to bridge the gap between the Iranian community in Canada and the underprivileged communities in Iran. Some of the key programs include:

  • Child Sponsorship Program: In collaboration with Paradise Charity, Bahar Charity has facilitated a sponsorship program that provides financial aid to underprivileged children. This program focuses on supporting children who have lost a parent or come from low-income families. It ensures they have access to education and basic needs. Indeed, the charity has managed to sponsor 60 children through the contributions of around 40 sponsors, creating a sustainable source of support for these children.
  • Fundraising Campaigns: Bahar Charity has organized multiple fundraising events to provide emergency relief in times of crisis. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it raised funds to supply oxygen tanks to low-income provinces in Iran suffering from a lack of medical supplies. Similarly, it conducted fundraising activities to support families affected by floods and other natural disasters in Iran.
  • Educational and Cultural Initiatives: Bahar Charity regularly hosts seminars, discussions and cultural events to raise awareness about the issues faced by children in Iran. These events serve to educate the broader community at the University of Toronto about Iranian culture. Additionally, they highlight the challenges faced by disadvantaged communities. Notably, it organized a photographic exhibition featuring photographs taken by underprivileged children in Iran. The event was a success, showcasing the artistic talents of the children while raising funds for their support.
  • Advocacy and Awareness: Beyond financial support, Bahar Charity is committed to raising awareness about child poverty in Iran and mobilizing support from the Iranian-Canadian community. It organizes seminars, talks and documentary screenings to foster discussions on relevant social issues, such as homelessness and education inequality in Iran. These events are open to both Iranian and non-Iranian audiences, helping to build a more inclusive community at the University of Toronto.

The Future of Child Poverty in Iran

Bahar Charity has made remarkable progress since its inception. It has built a solid partnership with Paradise Charity, established successful fundraising campaigns and developed programs that directly benefit children in need. Looking ahead, it aims to increase its volunteer base and seek more collaborations with other organizations. With more hands-on projects, such as workshops and one-on-one tutoring sessions for Iranian children, it hopes to make a more direct and meaningful impact.

– Jennifer Lee

Jennifer is based in Toronto, ON, Canada and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

Addressing Elderly Poverty in Iran

Elderly Poverty in IranIranian officials are warning the country’s people of a rising “tsunami,” a term they have coined to express the sudden wave of elderly individuals flooding the country’s general population. This mounting endemic challenges economic growth and highlights the Iranian government’s lack of preparedness regarding its retired residents. Mismanagement within the government’s finances has blocked more than 55% of Iranian elders from receiving pension funds and more than 35% of elders from living below the poverty line. Though an aging population seems to be their concern, the Iranian government must also tackle the surging rate of elderly poverty in Iran.

The Rise of the Grey-Haired Tsunami

Since 2022, the percentage of Iranian individuals over 60 has encompassed 10% of the total population. Iranian officials cite that this number will only continue to increase and argue that it will attain 33% by 2050. Saber Jabari, head of the Health Ministry Youth Department, ascribes this trend to the recent decrease in the country’s fertility rates. He states that many young Iranians are opting for later marriages and some are even doing away with having children altogether.

While fertility rates among Iranian youths are decreasing, the average life expectancy has increased among men from 57 years to 76 years and among women from 55 years to 78 years, according to Anadolu Agency.

In 2021, Iran’s Population Studies Centre had previously alerted government officials of the gravity of this situation. The center had cautioned that if officials continue to ignore these demographic trends, Iran would go down an irreversible path of aging, according to the Middle East Institute (MEI).

As the percentage of Iranians above the age of 60 increases, officials fear that, in years to come, the retired population could exceed that of the working population. The speed at which its residents are aging threatens the economic and social state of the country and puts into question the efficiency of its programs, i.e. the health care system and pension plan. Discrepancies within the government’s budgeting also explain the mounting poverty rate amongst the Iranian elderly.

Inadequacies in Iran’s Treatment of the Elderly

The Iranian elderly population relies heavily on a traditional family support system as well as a pension plan. Studies report that, as of 2023, nearly 50% of Iranian households live below the poverty line. Many experts attribute this cause to the Iranian government’s mismanagement of its priorities. The government’s prioritization is on foreign policy and international sanctions rather than their pension fund. Internal corruption and mismanagement have also impeded the government from developing a strong pension fund, according to MEI.

A Saba Institute study shows that 86% of retirees covered by pension funds are unable to maintain their living expenses, thus forcing many to seek a bank loan or borrow from a willing relative, Zamaneh Media reports. Improper funding is due to the government’s fiscal policy, which aims at reducing social welfare programs. This reduction has forced the Social Security Organisation and its supporting pension funds into a permanent risk state.

As poverty rates amongst Iranian households continue to mount, many families have begun to abandon their elderly members in parks in an attempt to rid themselves of financial burden. Mohammad Esmaeili Mahjoub, head of Tehran Municipality’s department for managing social issues, reports that, since the start of 2024, 25 cases of elderly abandonment have already occurred.

Elderly Abuse

Abuse among the elderly is increasing at an alarming rate. According to a study by Maziyar Mollaee from Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 30.7% of elders were reported to have been subject to emotional abuse; 25.4% were victims of psychological abuse; 25.1% suffered from neglect; 19.7% were financially abused; 13.1% were victims of physical abuse; and, 11.7% were abandoned.

Fatemeh Abbasi, deputy responsible for rehabilitation affairs at the National Welfare Organization, stipulates that there has been a recent rise in homelessness among the elderly. Currently, more than 60% of Iranian elders do not have proper support, while 40% are in poverty.

Nearly 1.5 million elderly Iranians receive aid from the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation, and Iranian charitable organization that aids those in poverty, while another 15,000 are under 24-hour care at various elderly residents. This increases the possibility of an elder being subject to abuse since two in three staff members in care homes report that they have committed abuse. 

Reclaiming One’s Independence

Due to the current economic situation elderly poverty in Iran seems bleak, however, various social programs have been put into place to aid the people and reduce elderly poverty in Iran. Bonyadeh Farzenegan is a non-profit organization the elderly created and currently lead. By taking on a leading role, members of the organization are fostering the development of their health and prolonging their sense of independence.

Since its founding in 2010, the organization has expanded its doors to more than 120 locations and has supported more than 200,000 elderly individuals across Iran. Many of their locations offer various forms of mentally and physically stimulating activities, such as aerobics, painting and theatre, according to Financial Tribune. Mostafa Seraj, a representative of Iran’s State Welfare Organisation, clarifies, “Our strategy behind Bonyadeh Farzenegan is to empower the elderly and delegate services and activities,” Financial Tribune reports.

Other organizations similar to Bonyadeh Farzengan have also been put into place by the Iranian government in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNPFA) to help tackle this issue and promote the betterment of the overall quality of life of the Iranian elderly.

The Future

Zeinab Nasri, the head of the Tehran Mayor’s Health Office, proclaims, “We have a long way to go before Tehran becomes an age-friendly community and that worries me. The key is for everyone who is a part of this effort to believe that change is necessary, to keep pushing forth, and accept this big responsibility,” Financial Tribune reports.

– Yasmine Nowroozi

Yasmine is based in Quebec, Canada and focuses on World News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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3 Facts About Maternal Mental Health in Iran

Maternal Mental Health in IranAccording to the Iranian Journal of Psychiatry, “The prevalence of psychological birth trauma has been reported at a rate between 20% to 30%,” which can result in mental health complications in new mothers. Often, these complications go untreated. In Iran, the majority of the population is Muslim and views birthing as a sacred and noble act. Over recent decades, infant and maternal mortality during childbirth has decreased significantly, with 95% of births taking place at the hospital.

Despite these positive advancements, the act of giving birth is seen as a practice that only women can witness. Therefore, fathers and male doctors do not partake or aid the mother while she is in labor. Midwives are present at some hospitals, but not enough to attend to every mother. Often, the mothers are left to give birth alone. This instills significant anxiety in new mothers: “According to a study in a health care center in Tehran, 46.5%, 12.1% and 11.1% of mothers experience post-trauma stress disorders, anxiety and depression respectively four to six weeks after a traumatic birth.”

Attitudes Around Mental Health in Iranian Women

Roughly a quarter of Iranian women suffer from mental health complications, such as depression and anxiety. Based on a study in the Iranian Journal of Public Health, women in Iran conceptualize mental health as emotional stability and the ability to function in day-to-day life with a sense of fulfillment. Mental health also includes sound decision-making, a lack of behavioral problems and a healthy family dynamic.

The journal notes, “According to participants’ views, people with high self-esteem, realistic beliefs, sense of control, essence or spirituality are satisfied.” Key concerns regarding mental health include poverty, marital issues, parental divorce, patriarchal attitudes, social stigmas and lack of religion/faith. Many women also believe that personal failings, such as jealousy or egoism, contribute to mental dysregulation.

Demographics and Maternal Mental Health

In terms of maternal mental health in Iran, especially in new mothers, a large theme is a sense of helplessness. In a study by the Iranian Journal of Psychiatry, many new mothers explain that, despite calling for help, they were not given attention. This experience resulted in them feeling alone and afraid. Additionally, they felt that if a birth complication should arise, they would not be assisted, resulting in their death or the death of their child. Many conceptualize this feeling as a “loss of control.”

They also note that the hospitals are not a comforting or suitable environment for childbirth. Some mothers note that this experience dissuades them from wanting to give birth again, resulting in a sense of insecurity. The journal notes that this experience is prevalent across demographics: “Regardless of their education, knowledge, socioeconomic status and place of delivery, they expressed their fear.”

Resources for Iranian Mothers Through Midwifery

Increasing and supporting access to reproductive health resources is the most direct way to accommodate maternal mental health in Iran. A study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) urges developing the roles of midwives beyond aiding women in hospitals during labor: “Midwives are well placed within communities; therefore, defining and expanding their roles will result in better accessibility and availability of sexual and reproductive health care.”

Midwives need to be accessible beyond the hospital context and be more engaged on a community level. This can be done through house visits, general education and skill-sharing. The study notes that midwives could also be used as a source of information and education. This would prepare new mothers for labor and inform them of the process prior to their due date. The study also explains that many midwives are given training that they do not implement in the hospital sphere. Ultimately, this results in the loss of these skills. WHO suggests that additional training courses be provided to these midwives, specifically to better deal with pregnancy complications and stressors surrounding labor.

While poor maternal mental health in Iran is a concern, there are accessible modes of combating these complications through education and community. Midwives are a staple in the birthing process. With advancements in the roles of Iranian midwives, new mothers will be better prepared and can avoid unnecessary stressors during childbirth.

– Anna Williams
Photo: Pexels