Identity and Woman: Status of Woman in the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Iran

Identity is a socially constructed, multidimensional, changeable concept and an outcome of open-ended processes. Therefore, it is actually identification of a personal or collective belonging. Its dynamic feature may result in several identical constructions or versions such as religious identity. In this regard, identity, power, and interest are three major components and affect each other. Post-revolutionary Iran’s official identity has this vital triangle and in this vein, Shia identity was transformed into political philosophy, official religion and a route of state affairs. Iranian women and young Iranian women, especially reformist young Iranian women compose the most fragile group in the society. My research question is “Is Shia identity determining factor on status of woman in the constitution?” This paper’s essential pillars are identity (as a theoretical framework), constitution of Iran, legal status of Iranian women according to Shia identity and the constitution (which are intertwined to each other)