What constitutes the relationship between Iranian feminists within Iran and the reformist party in government?
Pari: The political debate in Iran follows two key schools of thought. One is that by reforming the religion, we can solve the political problems and satisfy human rights. The other view is that we need a total separation of religion and state. This latter group would not even enter the debate on the compatibility of Islam, human rights, and women’s rights. These fundamental differences are then reflected in the women’s movement. Women were a critical voice in the reform movement – the masses of women who resisted their position in society fueled the movement and elected President Khatami. Because the movement enjoyed the support of moderate and secular women then, it was able to win the election. But as time passed, many seculars lost hope with the reform movement, though interestingly many extremists have now moved towards moderation and are supporting the reform movement. Tania: In your opinion, which feminist movement in Iran is making most progress towards achieving their goals? P
