SalamIran- Women, Women's Non-Governmental Organizations

Women's Non-Governmental Organizations
in
The Islamic Republic of Iran

Today, social and political participation is among indicators of national growth, strength of political systems and institutionalization of democracy in the world.

Iran has displayed great popular presence in all arenas of revolution two decades after its Islamic revolution which toppled an authoritarian system. Iranian women have always played their role as half of the society, as upbringers of the youth and supporters of men. Iran's events in the last twenty years bear witness to woman's clear presence in all cultural, political, economic and social arenas. Women contributed to the defense of the country against the aggressors, the realization of peace and security and establishment of love and friendship in the society. This enormous presence, especially at the time of reconstruction, and development, calls for a greater organization of women's efforts which have therefore been, unfortunately disorganized and sporadic, albeit effective.

Organizing women's socio-political, and cultural presence can work towards institutionalizing their participation, increasing their association with the outside environment and the world and help inter-cultural exchanges, as well as showing religious values, cultural and social traditions.

Iran has an old heritage in human culture and civilization. The contemporary world acknowledges Iran's contribution especially in the Islamic Age. Iran has had an important role in the past years. It stresses women's participation through their socio-political organization. The presence of tens of women's institutes in charge of organizing their political participation and cooperation in cultural, scientific and social responsibilities, prepares the ground for the growth of women's talents to help develop the society and assist the needy. All this shows the significance Iran attaches to women's participation. Iranian women have clearly a long way to go to accomplish their Islamic, human goals. However, they have already taken huge steps in this regard.

Introducing what our women have accomplished so far helps acquaint the world with them, create self- confidence and prepare the way ahead. We have tried here to shed light on some parts of Iranian women's institutional activities in political, social and cultural areas. We look at few of the non-governmental organizations. The following is only a general overview of these organizations in Iran. We hope they will be augmented.