The Iran 1400 Project invites submissions for a new editorial series examining the evolution of key institutions in modern Iranian history and civic life. From dynastic courts and religious authorities to revolutionary councils and civic movements, institutions have shaped the lives of Iranians through their power to govern, to silence, to serve—or to be challenged and remade.
This series builds on our previous explorations of evolving ideas such as freedom, justice, and citizenry. Now, we turn to the institutional infrastructures that have carried, resisted, or reshaped those ideas over the past century. We invite contributions that critically examine how institutions reflect and reproduce power—and how they may be reimagined in the face of Iran’s ongoing civic awakening.
Suggested Topics (not limited to):
- The transformation of the judiciary and its role in shaping civic life
- The evolution of military and security institutions (e.g., Artesh, IRGC, Basij)
- The institutional history of Iranian media, from state control to exile platforms
- Educational institutions and the making/unmaking of national identity
- The role of the Majles (Parliament) across regimes
- The rise and reinvention of religious institutions, including seminaries and clerical authority
- Civic associations, NGOs, labor unions, and student organizations as sites of resistance
- Institutions of the diaspora, exile government experiments, or cultural memory-keepers
We welcome interdisciplinary, historical, or contemporary perspectives, as well as short commentaries, essays, visual media, and data-driven pieces. Scholars, journalists, analysts, and civic thinkers are encouraged to contribute.
Timeline:
Rolling submissions accepted through Fall 2025
Early contributions may be featured in a forthcoming public event or panel discussion.
Submit your abstract or proposal to:
You can submit your contribution in one of two ways:
Option 1: Online Form
Use the embedded form below to submit your abstract or proposal directly.
Option 2: Email Submission
Send your abstract or proposal to:
📧 [email protected]
Subject line: Institutional Evolution CFP
Please include:
- A short bio
- 2–3 sentences summarizing your proposed piece
We look forward to your ideas and insights!
The Iran 1400 Project Editorial Team collaborates with scholars and experts to enhance understanding of Iran’s history and future. They examine changes in institutions and society over the past century and aim to inspire a constructive vision for Iran in the 1400s by discussing key cultural, political, and economic issues.
