InfoPackInternational Relations & Diplomacy

The 2021 Iran Presidential Elections: Prospects and Expectations

Written by: Fatih Şemsettin Işık

This info-pack explores the contours of the political dynamics in Iran ahead of the June 18 presidential elections.

On June 18, Iran is scheduled to hold presidential elections following Hassan Rouhani’s eight year tenure. With the ongoing nuclear talks in Vienna and the country’s deteriorating economic situation the significance of these elections are magnified. This info-pack explores the contours of the political dynamics in Iran ahead of the June 18 presidential polls. Following a brief account of Rouhani’s presidency, the presidential candidates and those barred from taking part in the elections will be examined. Finally, an assessment of the challenges facing the new president will be discussed.

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Fatih Şemsettin Işık
Fatih Şemsettin Işık
Fatih Şemsettin Işık is a deputy researcher at the TRT World Research Centre and a graduate student at the Department of International Relations in Central European University (CEU). Before that, he worked as a research assistant and social media coordinator at Al Sharq Forum. After completing his undergraduate studies at the Department of Political Science at Bilkent University in 2015, he finished his MA studies at the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Istanbul Şehir University in 2019. As a journalist, he contributed to the Daily Sabah newspaper between 2014 and 2016. His research interests include Israeli politics, EU-Middle East Relations, Turkish Politics and the role of diasporas in foreign affairs.

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