Iran and the Arab Spring

The World Affairs Council, East Bay Chapter presents: Iran and the Arab Spring

Almost two years before the Arab Spring, set off by the ouster of Tunisian President Bin Ali, Iran had its own version of an urban middle class protest movement spearheaded by a disgruntled youth. Educated, globalized and technically savvy but economically and politically frustrated, the youth who gave birth to the Green Movement in Iran were also calling for a transparent and accountable government that was protective of civil and human rights. However, after six months of valiant struggle, the Green Movement appeared to fizzle out in the face of heavy, consistent and concerted repression.

Dariush Zahedi, a Lecturer of Political Science at UC Berkeley, will explore the prospects for the Green Movement in Iran. Dariush Zahedi was born and raised in Iran and migrated to the US in the aftermath of the Iranian revolution. Zahedi gained first hand understanding of the region's politicized judicial processes in 2003, when he was arrested and imprisoned in Iran, and charged with seeking to undermine the national security of the Islamic republic through espionage. He represented himself at the revolutionary court, and was subsequently acquitted of all charges. Alex Saragoza's research interest focuses on the history of racialization and inequality in Latin America, especially Mexico and Cuba, and its impact on immigration to the US.

Registration & Social: 6:30, Program: 7:00