Politics & Government Guide in Iran

Political system, governance structure, stability indicators, and democratic institutions

Iran operates as an Islamic Republic under Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority over state institutions. President Masoud Pezeshkian, elected in 2024 as a reformist, serves as head of government but is subordinate to the supreme leader. The political system blends theocratic oversight with limited democratic elements, amid discussions of future leadership changes.

Government Type

Islamic Republic

Legal System

Mixed system of civil and Islamic (sharia) law

Head of State

Supreme Leader Ali Hoseini-Khamenei(since 1989)

Head of Government

President Masoud Pezeshkian(Independent)since 2024

Legislature

Type:unicameral

Lower House:Islamic Consultative Assembly (290 seats)

Major Political Parties

Combat Clergy Association(CCA)

Hard-line conservative

Moderation and Development Party(MDP)

Reformist

Voting Rights

Universal adult suffrage for Iranian citizens aged 18 and over; candidates vetted by Guardian Council

Recent Developments

Masoud Pezeshkian elected president in July 2024 following death of Ebrahim Raisi
Concerns over leadership transition as Supreme Leader Khamenei ages, with speculation on successor
Parliament elections in 2020 resulted in hard-liner dominance

Voting Age18

SuffrageUniversal

Constitution1979

Provinces31