Statement of solidarity with the people of Iran
Statement of solidarity with the people of Iran
We are deeply saddened and concerned about the difficult circumstances imposed on the Iranian people today; a people who have been paying heavy and unjust costs for years under the pressure of crippling sanctions, misguided economic policies, psychological insecurity, and now the consequences of the 12-day war of June 2025.
The Iranian Canadian Congress has previously warned about the devastating effects of sanctions on the people—particularly the disenfranchised—emphasizing that policies such as these not only do not lead to democracy and freedom, but also exacerbate the suffering of citizens.
Reducing the destructive effects of sanctions and economic crises requires justice-oriented economic policies and transparent accountability of officials within the country. Effectively combating corruption, preventing rent-seeking, and implementing just financial policies that address the widening wealth gap can prevent the escalation of inequalities that further exacerbate the suffering of citizens.
While our hope is that policy improvements are achieved while maintaining national security and social stability, we implore that the people's legitimate demands must not be used as a pretext for abuse and foreign interference. At the same time, those in positions of power are obligated to provide an environment where civil voices and peaceful demands can be heard, with restraint, tolerance, and respect for civil rights.
In these difficult moments, we declare our solidarity with the people of Iran and reiterate the need for a serious review of policies that hold citizens' lives hostage.
We are deeply saddened and concerned about the difficult circumstances imposed on the Iranian people today; a people who have been paying heavy and unjust costs for years under the pressure of crippling sanctions, misguided economic policies, psychological insecurity, and now the consequences of the 12-day war of June 2025.
The Iranian Canadian Congress has previously warned about the devastating effects of sanctions on the people—particularly the disenfranchised—emphasizing that policies such as these not only do not lead to democracy and freedom, but also exacerbate the suffering of citizens.
Reducing the destructive effects of sanctions and economic crises requires justice-oriented economic policies and transparent accountability of officials within the country. Effectively combating corruption, preventing rent-seeking, and implementing just financial policies that address the widening wealth gap can prevent the escalation of inequalities that further exacerbate the suffering of citizens.
While our hope is that policy improvements are achieved while maintaining national security and social stability, we implore that the people's legitimate demands must not be used as a pretext for abuse and foreign interference. At the same time, those in positions of power are obligated to provide an environment where civil voices and peaceful demands can be heard, with restraint, tolerance, and respect for civil rights.
In these difficult moments, we declare our solidarity with the people of Iran and reiterate the need for a serious review of policies that hold citizens' lives hostage.
Impact of sanctions on Iran & Iranian diaspora
Impact of sanctions on Iran & Iranian diaspora
Full session with Dr. Eric Hooglund
Senior researcher professor at the center for Middle East Studies at Lund University in Sweden
Monday 18th of October