Iran on the Brink

While the world keeps its eyes riveted on Iran's nuclear programme, the Islamic Republic has gone through a crisis of its own. This book shows how soaring unemployment and poverty has given way to social protest. A new labour movement has come to the fore. Although strikes are banned, workers are beginning to organise and underground networks are challenging the rule of the mullahs from within. The authors offer a unique portrait of the social upheaval, why it is happening and where it may take the country. Following the fall of reformism, the rise of Ahmadinejad and the recent outbursts of ethnic violence, this book provides rare insights into the inner contradictions of the Islamic Republic. The second part of the book deals with the international issues facing Iran - in particular the nuclear question, Iran's oil reserves and the serious threat of invasion. It is a sobering account of the realities of life in Iran, and the threat that war poses to the democratic aspirations of the Iranian people.

Preface Acknowledgements I 1. May Day in Children's Park 2. Springs interrupted 3. The sword that chopped off America's hand 4. Millionaire mullah bonanza 5. The Islamic Republic of Dust 6. Outcry 7. Intifada of the provinces 8. Obituary of a reformism 9. A meek president and his assertive subjects II. 10. Behind those high walls: Overtures of war 11. Terror at the theatre 12. The matter with the bomb 13. A waterfall out of reach 14. A fighter dog emasculated 15. Real men on their way to Tehran 16. A people caught in crossfire 17. Theses on a country of contradictions Glossary Timetable System of the IRI Index