Iran’s youth, breaking free by Mehran Hamrahi

Since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, Iran's population has grown to 76 million, out of which 70 percent are under 35; Iran has one of the youngest populations in the world. Despite the Islamic Republic introducing religious teaching from an early age, many young people in Iran view themselves no differently from young people in "the West" — not subscribing to traditional views of their theocracy. Many young Iranians feel that their ancient nation deprives them of basic human rights; many long for open relationships outside of marriage, or to be able to go to parties and drink alcoholic beverages without restriction and fear, and in a manner they prescribe. The depriving of basic human rights and social freedoms has left many young Iranians feeling desperate. According to the Iranian Psychiatric Association secretary, between 15 to 20 percent of Iranian youth suffer from depression. Many of them dream of emigrating and living in a "free" country abroad. Hamrahi's work provides an insight into the daily lives of Iranian youth living in Ahvaz in southern Iran. By introducing us to those who dream of living "a free life" he hopes to challenge the negative perceptions many have of Iran as being an entirely fanatical and traditionalist nation.