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Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Each electoral district is comprised of a combination of counties, cities and rural districts, and the number of the executive committees varies in each
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies
https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
BD002
Question: The authority responsible for final approval of the constituency boundaries is:
Answer(s):
c . The Electoral Management Body
Comments: The Elections Office is responsible for "Advising on the delimitation of electoral districts boundaries".
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies
https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population d . Conformity with local jurisdiction boundaries
Comments: Each electoral district is comprised of a combination of counties, cities and rural districts, and the number of the executive committees varies in each
The districts vary in geographic size; however, seat allocations are based on a formula, which entitles every 150,000 voters the right to elect one representative to the Majlis
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies
https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: The Elections Office of the Ministry of Interior is responsible for advising on the delimitation of electoral districts boundaries. Representatives from the Boundary Delimitation Office are members of the NEC.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies
https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
BD006
Question: What statistical or other reasons trigger the redrawing of electoral constituency boundaries?
Answer(s):
a . Changes in number of total population d . Changes in distribution of total population h . Change in government
Comments: Increases to the number of seats are permitted under the constitution, and Article 64 establishes the conditions for an increase stating “The number of parliamentary seats can increase by no more than twenty seats for each ten-year period, and the decision to do so must be based on population growth, political and geographic factors.”
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies
https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
h . Other
Comments: The task of appointing the Leader shall be vested with the experts elected by the people. The experts will review and consult among themselves concerning all the 'fuqaha' possessing the qualifications specified in Articles 5 and 109 (of the Constitution). In the event they find one of them better versed in Islamic regulations, the subjects of the fiqh, or in political and social issues, or possessing general popularity or special prominence for any of the qualifications mentioned in Article 109, they shall elect him as the Leader. Otherwise, in the absence of such a superiority, they shall elect and declare one of them as the Leader. The Leader thus elected by the Assembly of Experts shall assume all the powers of the 'wilayat al-amr' and all the responsibilities arising therefrom.
The law setting out the number and qualifications of the experts [mentioned in the preceding article], the mode of their election, and the code of procedure regulating the sessions during the first term must be drawn up by the fuqaha' on the first Guardian Council, passed by a majority of votes and then finally approved by the Leader of the Revolution. The power to make any subsequent change or a review of this law, or approval of all the provisions concerning the duties of the experts is vested in themselves.
Following are the essential qualifications and conditions for the Leader:
scholarship, as required for performing the functions of muftiin different fields of fiqh.
Justice and piety, as required for the leadership of the Islamic Ummah.
right political and social perspicacity, prudence, courage, administrative facilities and adequate capability for leadership.
In case of multiplicity of persons fulfilling the above qualifications and conditions, the person possessing the better jurisprudential and political perspicacity will be given preference.
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, articles 107-109: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
b . Directly elected in general elections, absolute majority (with 2nd round if necessary)
Comments: The President is elected for a four-year term by the direct vote of the people. His reelection for a successive term is permissible only once.
The President is elected by an absolute majority of votes polled by the voters. But if none of the candidates is able to win such a majority in the first round, voting will take place a second time on Friday of the following week. In the second round only the two candidates who received greatest number of votes in the first round will participate. If, however, some of the candidates securing greatest votes in the first round withdraw from the elections, the final choice will be between the two candidates who won greater number of votes than all the remaining candidates.
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, articles 114 and 117: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The President is the head of government.
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 113-132: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The Islamic Consultative Assembly
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 62-63: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly article 2: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
d . Two-Round System
Comments: The election of a member in the first stage is subject to obtaining the majority of at least one forth of total votes (one third in the previous Majles) and in the second stage as well as middle-period elections, the pro rata majority
In case of the equality of two or some members votes, the measurement for their electionis drawing lots being carried out in the common meeting of Executive Boards and Supervisory Board of Election station Center. The said candidates or their representatives are authorized to appear in the casting ceremonies.
If in the first stage of the elections, one or more candidates do no succeed to obtain the majority of
one fourth (Previously one third) of the cast votes, the elections will be held in two stages.
This means that from those candidates who did not obtain the quorum of one forth of the votes,
but the highest votes of the first stage, only two times of the required number of the Parliament
members can take part in the second stage of elections.
If the number of remained candidates are less than two times of required members, all of them
will take part in the elections of second stage.
The Islamic Consultative Assembly is constituted by the representatives of the people elected directly and by secret ballot.
Source: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly article 8-9: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 62: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
ES008
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 1?
Answer(s):
b . Specially delimited constituencies
Comments: The Electoral District Law, adopted in 1985, allocates parliamentary seats among Iran’s 207 electoral districts
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES009
Question: What is the level at which seats are distributed in Chamber 2?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES010
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 1 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Five parliamentary seats are reserved for recognized religious minorities. Zoroastrians and Jews each elect one representative. Assyrians and Chaldean Christians jointly elect one representative. Armenian Christians from the North elect one deputy to the Majlis, as do the Armenian Christians from the South.
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES012
Question: Are special constituencies or seats reserved in Chamber 2 for specific groups, such as minorities, specific nationality or other groups?
Answer:
c . The national legislature consists of one chamber only
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES014
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 1?
Answer:
b . Specify the percentage:
Comments: 25%
Candidates able to secure at least one fourth of the votes cast in the rst round are elected to the Majlis
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES015
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a party to win seats in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES016
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 1?
Answer:
b . Specify the percentage:
Comments: 25%
Candidates able to secure at least one fourth of the votes cast in the rst round are elected to the Majlis
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES017
Question: What is the legally imposed minimum threshold of votes required by a candidate (independent/party) to win a seat in Chamber 2?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES018
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 1, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
a . At fixed intervals (specify length)
Comments: Elections for the Majlis are held every four years
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES019
Question: Regarding the timing of the elections for Chamber 2, which of the following is true? Elections take place:
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES020
Question: Regarding Chamber 1 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
a . Voting takes place on one day
Comments: Elections shall be held on one day of the public holidays.
Source: Iran Elections Act, art. 10 note 5: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/IR/iran-elections-act-1999/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/22
ES021
Question: Regarding Chamber 2 elections (excluding advance voting, postal voting, etc):
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation
Comments: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran
The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran
Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly
Source: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
b . January 1990- December 1999
Comments: 1999
Source: Elections Act: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/IR/iran-elections-act-1999/at_download/file
Verified: 2016/01/22
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections
Comments: The elections of Islamic Consultative Assembly shall be enforced according to the regulations of this act and the government is duly obliged to hold the elections before the termination of last period so that the territory never runs without Parliament.
Presidental Electoral Law: This law demonstrates the general aspects of the presidential election. It assigns the required
conditions of the potential candidates, responsible governmental bodies, the process of
qualification, how the president is certificated and how he can officially start his presidency and
so on. This law is important to understand the mechanism and nature of presidential elections in
Iran. The law should be approved by the parliament in compliance with current constitution.
Source: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: No mention is made of compulsory voting
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
LF006
Question: Are there provisions in the law which permit or require presidential election (s) to be held on the same day as national legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
a . Judiciary
Comments: Article 80: Those who have complaints regarding the taking place of the election can deliver their documented complaints to the supervisors of the Guardian Council or also to the secretariat of the Council within three days after election day
Article 68:
Those who have objection to election, may submit their complaints to the secretariats of the Guardian Council within at most 7 days from the date of election.
Source: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly, article 68: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 80: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
LF008
Question: If the agency(ies) which settles formal disputes is/are specially appointed/elected; by whom?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/22
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level
Comments: The Elections Office is a permanent structure in the Ministry of Interior. It
is located in the Bureau of Political Affairs, and is staffed with permanent
officers including, a director, two deputy directors, and 25 senior experts
in the areas of statistics, elections, legal affairs, logistics, and budgets.
The Elections Office is charged with planning and making preparations for national and local elections.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM003
Question: The national electoral management body reports to:
Answer(s):
d . A national government department
Comments: The Elections Office is a permanent structure in the Ministry of Interior.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/22
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature d . A national government department
Comments: The Ministry of Interior (MoI) administers all election-related activities under the supervision of the Guardian Council. The Elections Office is a permanent structure in the Ministry of Interior.
The Elections Office is charged with planning and making preparations for national and local elections. This includes, among other functions, drafting and finalizing election budgets.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
c . The legislature d . A national government department e . Another organ within the national government
Comments:
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
c . For an unspecified period
Comments: For the Elections Office within the Ministry of Interior, there is no specified term. A temporary 7-member Central Supervisory Committee is established during presidential elections.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
a . Governmental
Comments: The Ministry of the Interior is in charge of administration of elections.
Source: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly, articlde 31: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
c . 21 - 30 members (specify)
Comments: The Elections Office is a permanent structure in the Ministry of Interior. It is located in the Bureau of Political Affairs, and is staffed with permanent officers including, a director, two deputy directors, and 25 senior experts in the areas of statistics, elections, legal affairs, logistics, and budgets.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: The Elections Office is a permanent structure in the Ministry of Interior. It is located in the Bureau of Political Affairs, and is staffed with permanent officers including, a director, two deputy directors, and 25 senior experts in the areas of statistics, elections, legal affairs, logistics, and budgets.
During Presidential elections, a Central Supervisory Committee is created which is composed of two members of the Guardian council and five "reputable" Muslims.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
e . Legislature
Comments: Elections Office staff members are selected by the Ministry of Interior.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
i . Media
Comments: IRI Broadcasting is obliged to broadcast all the declarations and notices of elections as well as elections training programs at the discretion of the Ministry of the Interior, in addition to display the Parliament role and members' duties.
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 14: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
b . Election time only
Comments:
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 14: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
m . No information available
Comments:
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999) https://track.unodc.org/LegalLibrary/LegalResources/Iran/Laws/Elections%20Act%20of%20Islamic%20Consultative%20Assembley%20(ENG)%20(1999).pdf
(2017)
Verified: 2024/11/19
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
a . 16
Comments: Voters must have the following conditions:
2- Being at least 16 years old.
Source: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 36(2): https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: Voters must have the following conditions:
1- Having the nationality of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
2- Being at least 16 years old.
3- Being sane.
Source: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 36: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VR003
Question: What restrictions on registering to vote and voting exist in the country?
Answer(s):
d . Mental disability
Comments: The electors shall hold the following particulars:
Sound of mind
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 27 https://track.unodc.org/LegalLibrary/LegalResources/Iran/Laws/Elections%20Act%20of%20Islamic%20Consultative%20Assembley%20(ENG)%20(1999).pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
a . Central Government Department (specify)
Comments: Ministry of Interior is the body in charge of executing the Law of Presidential Elections. It is also responsible for ensuring the accuracy of elections. Therefore, it may send permanent or temporary inspectors to oversee the election process and cast of the votes in provinces, districts, and the registration and polling stations.
Source: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 31: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
b . No
Comments: In the Islamic Republic of Iran, the affairs of the country must be administered on the basis of public opinion expressed by the means of elections, including the election of the President, the representatives of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, and the members of councils, or by means of referenda in matters specified in other articles of this Constitution.
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 6: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
d . No registration required
Comments: The formation of parties, societies, political or professional associations, as well as religious societies, whether Islamic or pertaining to one of the recognized religious minorities, is permitted provided they do not violate the principles of independence, freedom, national unity, the criteria of Islam, or the basis of the Islamic Republic. No one may be prevented from participating in the aforementioned groups, or be compelled to participate in them.
Source: Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, article 26: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989
Verified: 2024/11/19
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship h . Minimum level of education j . Other
Comments: The candidates shall hold the following particulars when they are nominated:
1. Believing and practically binding to the Islamic Republic of Iran
2. Iranian Nationality
3. Binding to the Constitutions and Absolute Religious Guardianship
4. Holding at least Associate Degree of its equivalent
5. Having no bad reputation in the elections station
6. Physical Health at the extent of being able to see, hear and speak
7. At least aged 26 and at most aged 75
The religious minorities candidates are not obliged to believe in Islam but their own religion.
Source: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly, article 28: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
PC005
Question: What are the legal qualifications for becoming a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
b . Citizenship c . Country of birth j . Other
Comments: The President must be elected from among religious and political personalities possessing the following qualifications: Iranian origin; Iranian nationality; administrative capacity and resourcefulness; a good past-record; trustworthiness and piety; convinced belief in the fundamental principles of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the official religion of the country.
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 26 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
PC006
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at legislative elections?
Answer(s):
j . Physical health problems k . Mental health problems o . Other
Comments: The candidates shall hold the following particulars when they are nominated:
1. Believing and practically binding to the Islamic Republic of Iran
2. Iranian Nationality
3. Binding to the Constitutions and Absolute Religious Guardianship
4. Holding at least Associate Degree of its equivalent
5. Having no bad reputation in the elections station
6. Physical Health at the extent of being able to see, hear and speak
7. At least aged 30 and at most aged 75
A - The following are deprived from candidacy in all elections stations unless they resign from their positions 3 months before their nomination:
1. 1- President, vice-president and his consultants
2. Secretary of National Interests Discernment Parliament or his Deputies
3. Consultants of Vice-presidents
4. Officers-in-charge of the head of three powers
5. Ministers and Heads of Ministries
6. Ministers Deputies and Consultants
7. General Directors and Chiefs of General Departments of Ministries and General Director of
Ministry of stations as well as Ministers' Officers-in-charge
8. Members of Guardian Council and Central Supervisory Board of Elections
9. Head of Judiciary Power and his Deputies and Consultants
10. Head of State Supreme Court and his Deputies or Consultants
11. State General Prosecutor, his Deputies and Consultants
12. Head of Administrative Justice Court, his Deputies and Consultants
13. Head of State Investigation Organization, his Deputies and Consultants
14. Heads and Supervisors of Organizations, General Departments, and Departments of
Religious and Political Affairs of Armed Forces of Islamic Republic of Iran, their
Substitutes or deputies
15. Chairman of Iran Broadcasting and his deputies
16. Head of IRI Red Crescent Society and his Deputies
17. Governor-generals
18. Governor-generals' Deputies and Consultants
19. Governors
20. Governor-Deputies
21. Mayors and Chairmen of Regional Municipalities
22. Chairmen and Directors of Governmental Organizations
23. President of Islamic Azad University
24. Directorate Members and Managing Directors of Banks
25. Directorate Members and Managing Directors of Governmental Companies or Affiliated
Companies with nation wide duties and options
26. General Director of Central Bank of Islamic Republic of Iran, his Deputies and Consultants
27. Heads and Directors of Foundations (Mostazafan, Shahid, Panzdah Khordad, Maskan),
Imam Khomeini Charity Committee, Literacy Movement, Islamic Campaign Organization, Campaign Bureau of Ghom Hozeh Elmieh, Chairman of Governmental Punishments Organization, Chairmen of Chamber of Commerce Industries, Mines & Cooperation and their Deputies and Consultants
28. Employees of Armed Forces and Ministry of Information
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 28 & 29A https://track.unodc.org/LegalLibrary/LegalResources/Iran/Laws/Elections%20Act%20of%20Islamic%20Consultative%20Assembley%20(ENG)%20(1999).pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
PC007
Question: What can disqualify a candidate at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
c . Criminal record p . Other
Comments: The President must be elected from among religious and political personalities possessing the following qualifications: Iranian origin; Iranian nationality; administrative capacity and resourcefulness; a good past-record; trustworthiness and piety; convinced belief in the fundamental principles of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the official religion of the country.
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 26 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
e . In both presidential and legislative elections
Comments:
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
PC009
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 1), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
c . No registration requirement
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
PC010
Question: If independent candidates can compete in legislative elections (Chamber 2), what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
c . No registration requirement
Comments: Candidates nominated for the post of President must declare their candidature officially.
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 116: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct
Comments: Government grants and subsidies in order to help the parties, the government shall provide an annual budget line in the annual budget.
Allocation of funds for assistance to the parties subject to Article 16 of this law shall be in accordance with the instructions approved by the Commission of Parties and shall also supervise its proper implementation.
Source: International IDEA: Global Database on Political Finance, Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=302
Law on the Activities of Political Parties and Groups, Art. 16 (4) Note 1.
Verified: 2024/11/19
PC014
Question: If political parties receive indirect public funding, identify the type of funding:
Answer(s):
a . Free media access
Comments:
Source: Ministry of Interior through Iran's Embassy to Sweden
Verified: 2007/01/23
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
e . Other
Comments: Government grants and subsidies in order to help the parties, the government shall provide an annual budget line in the annual budget.
Allocation of funds for assistance to the parties subject to Article 16 of this law shall be in accordance with the instructions approved by the Commission of Parties and shall also supervise its proper implementation.
Source: International IDEA: Global Database on Political Finance, Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=302
Law on the Activities of Political Parties and Groups, Art. 16 (4) Note 1.
Verified: 2024/11/19
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: Political parties are entitled to private funding excluding that from foreign interests, anonymous donations, and state resources.
Source: International IDEA: Global Database on Political Finance, Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=302
Verified: 2024/11/19
Vote Counting
VC001
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
c . Write-in ballot
Comments:
Source: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-22903218
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC002
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at national legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
s . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC003
Question: What are the characteristics of ballots used at presidential elections?
Answer(s):
c . Write-in ballot
Comments:
Source: http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-22903218
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: Governors and deputy governors of elections stations shall conform the result of their votes counting with supervisory boards of station
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 24: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VC005
Question: What procedures are used in the initial count?
Answer(s):
l . Counted by hand
Comments: Vote counting is conducted manually
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC006
Question: Following the sorting and counting, to where are the results first transmitted for consolidation?
Answer(s):
c . District level
Comments: Once the votes are counted and results tallied, the polling station members along with representatives of the Guardian Council and Governor prepare minutes and transfer a copy of this along with excess voting material and ballots to the central executive committees (in each electoral district).
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported
Comments: A copy the meeting minutes and the election results – for each polling station – is then sent to the Governor. The Governor, in turn, sends a copy of the nal election results and meeting minutes to the Guardian Council and the National Election Commission and, subsequently, publishes the results in his electoral district.
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC009
Question: If the polling results are physically transported, what is transported?
Answer(s):
f . Certificate of result
Comments:
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request
Comments: The executive boards of polling stations, shall accept complaints from the date of formation of executive board until 2 days after announcement of election results and present at the common meeting of the executive boards and the polling committee of supervision at most within 7 days from the date of receiving the complaints.
Those who have objection to election, may submit their complaints to the secretariats of the guardian council within at most 7 days from the date of election.
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 68, note 1: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VC012
Question: If automatically recounted, what is the trigger?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
VC013
Question: If ballots are recounted by request, who can make the request?
Answer(s):
a . Political parties b . An individual candidate c . Election officials f . Other
Comments: Those who have objection to election, may submit their complaints to the secretariats of the guardian council within at most 7 days from the date of election.
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 68, note 1: https://track.unodc.org/LegalLibrary/LegalResources/Iran/Laws/Elections%20Act%20of%20Islamic%20Consultative%20Assembley%20(ENG)%20(1999).pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: The law guarantees equal campaign conditions for nominees, including equal access to Iran’s state owned-media, the Islamic Republic of Iran’s Broadcasting (IRIB).
Source: DUALITY BY DESIGN: The Iranian Electoral System: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
a . Yes, in presidential elections
Comments:
Source: Radio Free Europe Ratio Library, "Iranian Presidential Candidates Meet In Televised Debate" (2013)
http://www.rferl.org/content/iran-presidential-debate/25003083.html
IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
https://iranwire.com/en/politics/131337-pezeshkian-and-jalili-face-off-in-heated-presidential-debate/
Verified: 2024/11/19
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments:
Source: Presidential Electoral Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/4748_5_O_Iran_Electoral_Law_on_Presidential_Elections_10.pdf
Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source: Political Parties Law: https://irandataportal.syr.edu/political-parties-law
Verified: 2024/11/19
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: C:59 "In extremely important economic, political, social, and cultural matters, the functions of the legislature may be exercised through direct recourse to popular vote through a referendum. Any request for such direct recourse to public opinion must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly."
C:123 "The President is obliged to sign legislation approved by the Assembly or the result of a referendum, after the legal procedures have been completed and it has been communicated to him. After signing, he must forward it to the responsible authorities for implementation."
C:177 "(1) The revision of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whenever needed by the circumstances, will be done in the following manner:
The Leader issues an edict to the President after consultation with the Nation's Exigency Council stipulating the amendments or additions to be made by the Council for Revision of the Constitution which consists of: [...] (3) The decisions of the Council, after the confirmation and signatures of the Leader, shall be valid if approved by an absolute majority vote in a national referendum. (4) The provisions of Article 59 shall not apply to the referendum for the "Revision of the Constitution."
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran, articles 59, 123 and 177: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008): https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The revision of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whenever needed by the circumstances, will be done in the following manner:
The Leader issues an edict to the President after consultation with the Nation's Exigency Council stipulating the amendments or additions to be made by the Council for Revision of the Constitution which consists of: [...] (3) The decisions of the Council, after the confirmation and signatures of the Leader, shall be valid if approved by an absolute majority vote in a national referendum. (4) The provisions of Article 59 shall not apply to the referendum for the "Revision of the Constitution."
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
(2017)
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008): https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: C:59 "In extremely important economic, political, social, and cultural matters, the functions of the legislature may be exercised through direct recourse to popular vote through a referendum. Any request for such direct recourse to public opinion must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly."
C:123 "The President is obliged to sign legislation approved by the Assembly or the result of a referendum, after the legal procedures have been completed and it has been communicated to him. After signing, he must forward it to the responsible authorities for implementation."
C:177 "(1) The revision of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whenever needed by the circumstances, will be done in the following manner:
The Leader issues an edict to the President after consultation with the Nation's Exigency Council stipulating the amendments or additions to be made by the Council for Revision of the Constitution which consists of: [...] (3) The decisions of the Council, after the confirmation and signatures of the Leader, shall be valid if approved by an absolute majority vote in a national referendum. (4) The provisions of Article 59 shall not apply to the referendum for the "Revision of the Constitution."
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), art. 59, 123 and 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
(2017)
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008): https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: IDEA: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=309
IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: IDEA: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=309
IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
(2017)
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: IDEA: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=309
IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
(2017)
Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999) https://track.unodc.org/LegalLibrary/LegalResources/Iran/Laws/Elections%20Act%20of%20Islamic%20Consultative%20Assembley%20(ENG)%20(1999).pdf
(2017)
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional
Comments: The revision of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whenever needed by the circumstances, will be done in the following manner:
The Leader issues an edict to the President after consultation with the Nation's Exigency Council stipulating the amendments or additions to be made by the Council for Revision of the Constitution which consists of: [...] (3) The decisions of the Council, after the confirmation and signatures of the Leader, shall be valid if approved by an absolute majority vote in a national referendum. (4) The provisions of Article 59 shall not apply to the referendum for the "Revision of the Constitution."
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
c . Regulations
Comments: C:59 "In extremely important economic, political, social, and cultural matters, the functions of the legislature may be exercised through direct recourse to popular vote through a referendum. Any request for such direct recourse to public opinion must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly."
C:123 "The President is obliged to sign legislation approved by the Assembly or the result of a referendum, after the legal procedures have been completed and it has been communicated to him. After signing, he must forward it to the responsible authorities for implementation."
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 59 & 123 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD100
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD101
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a recall?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD103
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD104
Question: What form of checks are undertaken to verify signatures for a recall?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD107
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD108
Question: Which organisation(s), if any, is responsible for running non-partisan information or voter education campaigns to inform voters about the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD110
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for an initiative?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD111
Question: What activities, if any, are undertaken as part of non-partisan information or voter education campaigns for a recall?
Answer(s):
i . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD113
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD114
Question: Which of the following controls, if any, apply in relation to campaigning for or against the issue being addressed in a recall?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD116
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for an initiative?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD117
Question: What is the period during which these controls apply for a recall?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD119
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD120
Question: Which campaigners, if any, are entitled to some forms of public assistance for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD122
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for an initiative? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD123
Question: Which forms of public assistance, if any, are provided for a recall? Specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD127
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign for a recall?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments: The administration ... of referendums, much like other elections in Iran, is the responsibility of the Ministry of Interior.
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments: Mandatory referendums only occur for Constitutional Ammendments
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 59, 123 and 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments: Mandatory referendums only occur for Constitutional Ammendments
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments: Revision of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whenever needed by the circumstances, will be done in the following manner: ... The decisions of the Council, after the confirmation and signatures of the Leader, shall be valid if approved by an absolute majority vote in a national referendum.
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
j . Other (specify)
Comments: In extremely important economic, political, social, and cultural matters, the function of the legislature may be exercised through direct recourse to popular vote through a referendum. Any request for such direct recourse to public opinion must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly.
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 59: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Government f . Other (specify)
Comments: Any request for such direct recourse to public opinion must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly.
Source: Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), Art. 59: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments: The administration ... of referendums, much like other elections in Iran, is the responsibility of the Ministry of Interior.
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
a . Government (specify department)
Comments: The administration ... of referendums, much like other elections in Iran, is the responsibility of the Ministry of Interior.
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
g . None
Comments: The principles of direct, universal and secret ballot apply to referendums.
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD043
Question: When is the outcome of a mandatory referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD044
Question: When is the outcome of an optional referendum binding?
Answer:
a . Always
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD045
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the citizens' initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD046
Question: Which types of issues can be proposed by citizens using the agenda initiative process at the national level?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD047
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of a citizens' initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD048
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of an agenda initiative at the national level?
Answer(s):
l . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD049
Question: Who may propose the registration of a citizens' initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD050
Question: Who may propose the registration of an agenda initiative? Please specify in the "Comments" section below.
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD052
Question: Who determines the title of a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD053
Question: Who determines the title of an agenda initiative?
Answer:
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD054
Question: Which, if any, of the following disqualify a proposed title of an initiative?
Answer(s):
h . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD055
Question: Which services are provided by the agency/department responsible for the administration of direct democracy mechanisms before an initiative can be published?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD056
Question: Under what circumstances is an initiative checked for constitutionality or legality?
Answer(s):
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD058
Question: If a check of the constitutionality or legality of an initiative takes place, when does this happen?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD059
Question: Which institutions, if any, are given an opportunity to propose an alternative to proposals contained in a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD060
Question: At which stage in the initiative process, if at all, can alternative proposals be made?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD061
Question: What happens when there is a valid alternative proposal?
Answer:
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD062
Question: When an initiative proposal and an alternative proposal are put to the vote on the same day, what choices does the voter have?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD063
Question: Who decides the final ballot text?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD064
Question: Once an initiative is qualified for the ballot, the vote on it takes place:
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD065
Question: Which of the following individuals/positions may be subject to the recall mechanism?
Answer(s):
k . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD066
Question: What are the grounds upon which a recall may be launched?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD068
Question: If a recall qualifies for the ballot, when is it put to the vote?
Answer:
d . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD069
Question: When does the election to replace an individual who has been recalled take place?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD071
Question: Can an individual who is the subject of a recall stand on the ballot for his/her own replacement?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD076
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD077
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a rejective referendum (optional) has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD078
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for a citizens' initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD079
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for an agenda initiative has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD080
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD081
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD082
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD083
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD085
Question: What is the deadline, if any, for collecting the required number of signatures after a proposal for recall has been published?
Answer:
c . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD086
Question: What restrictions, if any, apply in relation to the individuals who can sign the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD087
Question: Where can proposals for an abrogative referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD088
Question: Where can proposals for a rejective referendum (optional) be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD089
Question: Where can proposals for a citizens' initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD090
Question: Where can proposals for an agenda initiative be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD091
Question: Where can proposals for a recall be signed?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD092
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD093
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD094
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD095
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for an agenda initiative?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD096
Question: What information must signatories provide when signing the proposal for a recall?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD097
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for an abrogative referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD098
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a rejective referendum (optional)?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD099
Question: What restrictions, if any, are there in relation to signature collection for a citizens' initiative?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
c . Both constitutional and other issues
Comments:
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source: IDEA: Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=105&database_theme=309
Verified: 2024/11/19
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
e . 1961-1980
Comments: 1979 Constitution
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
i . Not applicable
Comments: Never
Source: https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
Voting Operations
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
d . At specially designated polling stations e . At mobile polling stations
Comments: Obtaining the confirmation of central executive board, tributary executive boards are authorized to establish movable polling stations for mountainous and arduous places or any other places where no stations may be established. Also the executive board of polling station center is authorized to establish movable station in the center whenever it is found necessary.
Polling stations shall be erected only in any village, cities and counties. In greater cities, pollingstations shall be erected in each municipal district
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 44 & 63 https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
b . Citizens residing outside the country c . Citizens outside the country (including those on vacation)
Comments: c) Applies to presidential elections.
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VO005
Locations for voting outside of the country
Question: If voting outside the country is permitted, at what places?
Answer(s):
a . Embassies b . Consulates
Comments:
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
VO006
Question: Can people vote in advance of the designated national election day(s)?
Answer:
a . No
Comments:
Source: IFES: "Duality By Design: The Iranian Electoral System" (2011). Electoral Management Bodies https://www.sssup.it/UploadDocs/14620_2_R_Duality_by_Design__The_Iranian_Electoral_System_Yasmin_Alem.pdf
Verified: 2016/01/23
VO007
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), how may they do so?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
VO008
Question: If electors can vote in advance of the designated national election day(s), specify who:
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/01/23
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments:
Source: Iran: Elections Act of Islamic Consultative Assembly (1999), Art. 66: https://www.refworld.org/themes/custom/unhcr_rw/pdf-js/viewer.html?file=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.refworld.org%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Flegacy-pdf%2Fen%2F1999-11%2F4c35cba22.pdf
Verified: 2024/11/19
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