Amir Javid, in discussing the future of Iran, emphasized the importance of pluralism and defends the right of all Iranians to preserve their language, rituals, and culture. However, he opposes turning ethnic identity into a basis for permanent power quotas and believes that every individual should have rights based on their citizenship.
Iran, a Land of Cultural Coexistence
Throughout history, Iran has been a place for coexistence and interaction among people with various languages, beliefs, and traditions. Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Baluchis, Arabs, Lurs, Gilaks, Turkmen, and Persians are part of a historical community, and the shared life of Iranians cannot be limited to a few fixed ethnic borders. In fact, many families in Iran are themselves symbols of this cultural diversity; a Kurdish grandmother, an Azerbaijani grandfather, a Persian bride, and a Lur groom are prominent examples of this reality.
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Difference Between National Identity and Cultural Homogenization
Javid emphasizes that being Iranian does not mean being Persian or following a specific religion. Persian can be a national common language, but other languages must also be respected. He believes that national unity makes sense when every citizen feels a sense of belonging and security in being Iranian without hiding their culture and background.
He also points out the necessity of political pluralism, stating that individuals have the right to be constitutionalists, republicans, or supporters of any other legal viewpoint. However, when power seats are pre-divided in the name of ethnicities, competition over programs may give way to competition over identity titles.
Javid, criticizing the claim of ethnic representation, emphasizes that every individual has the right to speak about their cultural rights and the issues of their homeland, but political representation is not the same for all members of society. He mentions the lack of free elections and the inability for opponents to compete as challenges that need to be addressed.
He states that the future of Iran could take the form of a parliamentary monarchy or a democratic republic, and the choice between the two should be left to the free will of the people. In either case, the integrity of the country, the rule of law, and equal citizenship must be maintained.
Javid also highlights the necessity of an independent judiciary and free media to check power, stating that no structure becomes democratic merely by its beautiful name. He expresses concern about separatist tendencies in the future, opposing a federal structure for Iran.
He concludes by emphasizing that the future constitution must clearly state that no citizen shall be deprived of the right to education, employment, ownership, and political participation due to ethnicity, language, religion, or gender. This principle must be implemented throughout Iran, and the people must oversee the expenditure of public resources.
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