Iran's Power Structure
Expert Tamerlan Vagabov has outlined Iran's governing structure, which is built upon the political Islamic concept of Velayat-e Faqih. According to him, this system establishes the supremacy of the clergy in an institutional form, which became the foundation for organizing the country's political system. This unique theocratic model sets Iran apart from most other nations in the modern world.
The concept of political Islam in Iran was implemented by the first spiritual leader, Ayatollah Khomeini, between 1979 and 1989. The doctrine of Velayat-e Faqih defines the core principles by which the key institutions of power operate. In Iran, Vagabov states, ultimate authority belongs to the Rahbar, or Supreme Leader, the country's spiritual guide, a position held by Khamenei.
"This machine, if we can call it that on a macro level, is known in terms of political Islam as Velayat-e Faqih," the expert noted.
Key Power Institutions
The key institutions of power in Iran include:
- The Guardian Council
- The Assembly of Experts
- The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)
The Guardian Council consists of 12 members: six jurists and six theologians, who possess the broadest powers.
"They can reject any bills, proposals, or initiatives put forward by members of parliament or even the executive branch, the president," Vagabov emphasized.
The Assembly of Experts, known as Khobregan, is composed of 83-88 individuals. This body's primary function is to elect and oversee the actions of the Supreme Leader. "In reality, what always happens in practice in Iran is the opposite—the spiritual leader controls them," Vagabov noted.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is a security force with a presence in commercial enterprises and football clubs, according to Iran's intelligence law. "These are, in fact, security forces that also constitute a semi-autonomous structure," the expert added. The president, in turn, serves as a 'pressure-release valve and a de facto spokesperson.' Although he holds certain powers, this, according to Vagabov, is merely the appearance of democratic institutions.
Thus, Iran's power structure forms a complex political system based on a combination of religious and secular institutions, with clear supremacy of the clergy.
The described structure of power in Iran demonstrates how religious principles can shape political processes and institutions. Authority concentrated in the hands of the clergy limits opportunities for democratic development and reform in the country, which can have serious consequences for society and international relations. In an era of globalization and growing demands for political freedoms, Iran faces challenges that may lead to shifts in its political landscape.