The 2017 Iranian Presidential Election: A Crossroads Between Reform and Stagnation

The year 2017 marked a pivotal moment for Iran, as its citizens went to the polls to elect a new president. This election, held on May 19th, saw a field of six candidates vying for the coveted position, but it was Hassan Rouhani’s re-election that ultimately captured the nation’s attention and set the stage for subsequent years marked by both progress and tension.

Understanding the context surrounding this election is crucial to grasping its significance. Iran had been under international sanctions for years due to its nuclear program, and the economy was struggling. Many Iranians yearned for change and saw Rouhani, a moderate cleric known for his pragmatism, as the best hope for improving their lives.

His opponent in this election was Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner closely associated with Iran’s judiciary and conservative establishment. The stark contrast between the two candidates mirrored the deep divisions within Iranian society itself: those yearning for greater openness and engagement with the world versus those who favored a more insular and rigid approach.

The campaign leading up to the election was characterized by passionate debates, with both sides making promises to address the pressing concerns of ordinary Iranians. Rouhani emphasized his record of negotiating the landmark nuclear deal with world powers in 2015, arguing that it paved the way for economic relief and international investment. He pledged to continue pursuing a path of diplomacy and reform.

Raisi, on the other hand, promised a return to traditional values and criticized Rouhani’s perceived leniency towards the West. He campaigned on a platform of social conservatism and a strong stance against foreign interference.

The outcome of the election was closely watched by both Iranians and the international community. When the results were announced, showing Rouhani securing a decisive victory with over 57% of the vote, a wave of relief and optimism swept through the country. Many saw his re-election as a validation of their desire for moderation and progress.

Rouhani’s victory was not without its challenges, however. He faced considerable opposition from conservative elements within Iran’s political system who sought to undermine his efforts. Despite these hurdles, Rouhani persevered and made some notable achievements during his second term, including:

While Rouhani made progress on several fronts, his second term was also marked by significant setbacks. The re-imposition of US sanctions under the Trump administration in 2018 dealt a severe blow to Iran’s economy. This renewed economic pressure intensified internal divisions within Iran, leading to protests and unrest.

Rouhani’s decision not to seek re-election in 2021 further highlighted the complexities facing Iran. The subsequent election saw the victory of Ebrahim Raisi, who promised a more conservative and hardline approach. This shift in leadership signaled a potential departure from Rouhani’s policies of engagement and reform, raising questions about Iran’s future trajectory on both the domestic and international stage.

The 2017 Iranian Presidential Election remains a pivotal event in the country’s recent history. It served as a referendum on the direction Iran wished to take, reflecting the deep-seated tensions between reformers and conservatives. While Rouhani’s victory provided a glimmer of hope for change, subsequent events underscore the ongoing challenges facing Iran. Only time will tell what path the nation ultimately chooses.