What type of government is in power in Iran?
Iran has been an Islamic Republic since 1979, a theocratic political system where religious and political power are intertwined. The president is elected by universal suffrage for four years, but the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority.
A unique theocratic system
Iran operates under an Islamic republic regime established in 1979 following the Islamic revolution. This system combines democratic and theocratic elements, where Islamic law (sharia) constitutes the legal foundation of the country.
Organization of power
- The Supreme Leader : supreme religious and political authority, appointed for life by the Assembly of Experts
- The President : elected by universal suffrage for four years, renewable once
- The Parliament (Majlis) : 290 deputies elected for four years
- The Guardian Council : validates laws and supervises elections
Key points
Despite regular elections, the Iranian system remains dominated by religious authority. The Supreme Leader controls the military, judiciary and foreign policy, limiting the power of the elected president.