Aram Hessami’s Two, Three Words powerfully argues that the Iranian citizenry is both the key to dismantling authoritarian rule and the foundation for a democratic future. Hessami asserts that Iran’s political transformation depends not merely on new leadership but on a redefinition of citizenship—one where individuals actively engage in governance rather than remain passive subjects of state control. This article explores Hessami’s vision of Iranian citizenry, focusing on the role of civic responsibility, youth engagement, and the necessity of forging a new social contract.

Reclaiming Citizenship from Authoritarianism

A recurring theme in Hessami’s work is the idea that Iranian citizens must redefine their relationship with the state. He critiques the historical role of citizens under the Islamic Republic, arguing that the government has reduced citizenship to subjugation rather than participation (Two, Three Words, p. 8). According to Hessami, the Iranian regime thrives by fostering political apathy, ensuring that people feel powerless to change their circumstances.

Hessami calls for a revival of civic agency, where Iranian citizens understand that their role extends beyond obedience to the state. This means demanding rights, questioning authority, and actively shaping policies rather than merely enduring them. He presents citizenship as an ongoing process of engagement rather than a static legal status.

Youth as the Vanguard of Change

One of Hessami’s most compelling arguments is that the younger generation represents Iran’s greatest hope for democratic transformation (Two, Three Words, p. 41). He describes how young Iranians have challenged authoritarian narratives, protested against oppression, and sought alternatives to the status quo. However, he also critiques their lack of organization and strategic planning.

While youth movements have demonstrated remarkable courage, Hessami warns that without structured leadership and a clear political roadmap, their efforts may not translate into long-term change. He urges the Iranian youth to move beyond protest culture and build sustainable institutions that lead to genuine democratic governance.

Political Apathy and the Crisis of Engagement

Hessami identifies political apathy as a major obstacle to change (Two, Three Words, p. 11). Years of repression, economic instability, and disillusionment with past political movements have led many Iranians to detach from political engagement, believing that no real change is possible. This, he argues, is precisely what authoritarian regimes want—to cultivate a society where people feel powerless.

To counteract this, Hessami advocates for civic education and political mobilization. He argues that change will not come from external forces or elite-driven movements but from a citizenry that recognizes its own power. He calls on Iranians to embrace their collective responsibility in demanding accountability, participating in decision-making, and shaping public discourse.

Forging a New Social Contract

Hessami envisions a future where Iranian citizens collectively construct a new social contract (Two, Three Words, p. 26). Instead of governance being imposed from above, he believes that political legitimacy must emerge from the will of the people. This means replacing top-down authoritarian structures with a system that ensures citizen participation at all levels of governance.

According to Hessami, this new social contract must be based on universal principles of democracy, equality, and justice. It should guarantee political representation, protection of individual freedoms, and economic opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their background. The book argues that Iran can achieve long-term stability and prosperity only through inclusive and participatory governance.

Overcoming Division Through Citizenship

Hessami also addresses the fragmentation of Iran’s political opposition, arguing that a shared sense of Iranian citizenry can unite diverse factions (Two, Three Words, p. 22). Iran’s political landscape is deeply divided between monarchists, reformists, secularists, Islamists, and others. These divisions, he argues, have prevented meaningful collaboration against authoritarian rule.

The solution, Hessami suggests, lies in prioritizing civic identity over ideological differences. Instead of focusing on who should rule, Iranian citizens must focus on how they should be governed. This requires moving beyond partisan conflicts and embracing a collective commitment to democratic values and civic responsibility.

From Protest to Governance

Hessami argues that while protests are essential for challenging oppression, they are insufficient for building a democratic state (Two, Three Words, p. 45). Iranian citizens must transition from resistance to governance, meaning they must be prepared not only to overthrow authoritarian rule but also to establish functioning democratic institutions in its place.

To achieve this, Hessami calls for political education, coalition-building, and long-term planning. He urges Iranian citizens to focus on creating structures that can sustain democracy, such as independent media, civic organizations, and accountable political parties. He warns that without such groundwork, any post-authoritarian government risks falling into the same patterns of corruption and oppression.

Conclusion

Aram Hessami’s Two, Three Words presents citizenry as both the problem and the solution to Iran’s political crisis. He critiques how the Iranian state has eroded civic agency, but also highlights the power of an engaged citizenry to drive democratic change. His vision for Iran is not merely about replacing one government with another, but about fundamentally redefining the relationship between the state and its people.

By embracing active citizenship, civic unity, and long-term political engagement, Hessami believes that Iranians can build a future where the people, not authoritarian rulers, are the architects of their nation’s destiny. His message is clear: the road to democracy is not easy, but it begins with the collective awakening and empowerment of Iranian citizens.

Book Review: An Intellectual Manifesto for Governance, Justice, and Democracy