This document represents the result of the Volunteer Activists‘ (VA) effort to thoroughly examine labor-related issues and protests in Iran during the period spanning July to December 2023. This report is the third in a series of reports that VA will publish twice a year, aiming to provide regular updates on labor issues and protests in Iran.
By doing so, VA aims to provide the global community with deeper insights into the prevailing labor challenges and protests in Iran. The acknowledgment of their voices on an international stage is crucial for the advancement of Iran‘s labor movement. Additionally, gaining a profound understanding of Iranian workers‘ needs and the requirements of trade unions advocating for them enables international donors to tailor subsequent programs and activities, thereby enhancing organizational effectiveness. Leveraging its connections within Iran, VA is positioned relatively well to furnish this valuable information.
The intricate landscape of Iranian labor, characterized by its diversity, necessitated extensive and meticulous research to map the situation regarding labor issues and struggles comprehensively. Our evaluation of the landscape, encompassing labor issues and rights, drew upon both primary and secondary sources. VA engaged in (online) interviews with on-the-ground labor activists. Secondary data sources included verified media reports, published research, and social media monitoring.
From this research, several key observations emerge regarding labor issues and protests in Iran from July to December 2023:
Despite a repressive regime, a surge in labor demonstrations rocked Iran throughout the latter half of 2023. This was a direct response to worsening living conditions, primarily fueled by the stark mismatch between wages and pensions versus skyrocketing inflation rates. Consequently, ordinary Iranians find themselves struggling to put food on the table and maintain shelter.
Their plight intensifies due to inadequate labor law enforcement, resulting in delayed payouts and unsafe working conditions. Tightened government regulations primarily benefited employers and the government. Changes included withdrawing extra financial support for workers in challenging occupations and refusing formal recognition of independent labor unions. In some instances, the ongoing economic crisis and job insecurity drove desperate workers to tragic measures.
The challenges extend to retirement, where additional complexities arise. Pensions lag behind inflation, and healthcare services fall short. This compels retirees, particularly those with minimal pensions, to pick up extra work—such as street vending, taxi driving, and various odd jobs—even after officially retiring.
While some of the labor protests yielded results, the majority did not. An important reason for this failure lies in the absence of organized representation for workers‘ demands. Most workplaces lack access to an independent union that can effectively organize protests and negotiate on behalf of the workers. Many labor protests, such as those involving steel industry workers, lacked organization and organizing capacity. As a result, they lack the power that organizing can provide including by having supporting strategies needed to influence politics and society in their favor.
Without organized structures, protesting workers cannot mobilize forces, lobby effectively, or even officially communicate with the media to have an influence through public opinion. Additionally, they face challenges in interacting with international organizations. In short, the absence of organized representation hampers their ability to navigate and shape the broader socio-political landscape in support of their cause.
Internal and external challenges, including security threats, throw another wrench into the works. This might mean getting sacked before achieving anything or discontinuing a labor protest due to the fear of (also) getting arrested – or simply due to a lack of income. This makes it hard to turn this pressure into concessions by an unwilling government.
To make these protests more effective, a two-pronged strategy is essential: a long-term commitment to sustained protests and short-term actions aimed at achieving immediate outcomes to boost morale and incentivize workers. For example, focusing on issues like receiving delayed salaries, pressuring for the removal of problematic directors, or securing the return of workers unjustly fired. These actions help workers understand the power of collective action and the importance of working together. While immediate outcomes may not be systematic or transformative, they serve as positive signals and contribute to the overall long-term strategy.
A top priority for labor activists should therefore be to raise awareness among workers about the importance of organization and guiding them in channeling their demands for favorable outcomes. This emphasis on organization can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of labor movements, empowering workers to advocate for their rights more cohesively and efficiently.
To elevate theirefforts, labor activists and workers could focus on:
Members of the international community, including labor unions and policymakers, can bolster the efforts of Iranian labor activists to improve the livelihoods of workers in Iran.
Connecting: Fostering connections and support between international labor organizations and independent unions in Iran is crucial. Also, collaboration on advocacy, sharing resources, and promoting awareness of certain issues is helpful.
Socio-economic human rights: It is imperative to direct attention towards the prevailing issues of poverty and the suppression of workers demanding fundamental living and working conditions. While international organizations play a crucial role in advocating for political human rights, it is equally important to highlight socio-economic human rights in Iran. Foremost among these concerns is the pressing issue of poverty and food insecurity which resonates deeply within a significant portion of Iranian society.