Current Event
10/16 Post 3 Iranian Nationalism
To begin, lets firstly define nationalism. Nationalism is ones pride and devotion to their nation-state which to them, transcends the importance of any other individual or group interests. With that being said, nationalism a powerful force that can propel a nation-state in a variety of ways.
The concept of nationalism has been deeply intertwined with Iran for centuries, and especially now. Historically, Iran is a nation of numerous ethnicities, languages, religions, and much more. Rather than Iranian nationalists choosing to unify over any of these traits, they are instead brought together through globalization.
The collective abhorrence towards globalization, or especially western influence, is caused by a series of exceptional foreign meddling and religious overhaul (so please consult this timeline: us-relations-iran-1953-2022). Following the Iranian Revolution of 1979, Iran sought independence away from western countries, the creation of high employment, and comfortable living for all.
However this has yet to be achieved. Following this terrific movement was a complication in international participation. In short, every law Iran had that did not conform with Shia Islam was made void. This makes it exceptionally difficult for businesses to deal with outsiders that are non practitioners because they don’t conform by the same religious rules.
The U.S. sanctions imposed due to Irans support of terrorist organizations also makes matters difficult for them. Irans most lucrative export, oil and gas, is crippled by these sanctions for a multitude of reasons. The products and technologies needed for the efficiency of this sector are limited, therefore slowing production. These sanctions also created a mass withdrawal of oil companies from Iran in addition to the complication of the nations laws.
Despite all this, Iran is still hopeful that things will look up if the nuclear deals go through. Irans long awaited self reliance and economic upturn will allegedly be achieved from the ability to create power plants as well as the lifting of U.S. sanctions if terms are abided by. Presently, these nuclear talks have bolstered nationalism present in Iran because it contributes to the “doing away with” globalization/western influence and achieving independence.
