Farhad Mir Mohammad Sadeghi

The recent European Parliament elections have resulted in a significant shift in the balance of power, with the European People's Party and the Conservatives and Reformists gaining influence, while the Greens and Renew Europe lost seats. This shift is expected to impact the EU's policy towards Iran, as the right-wing parties generally support resolutions against the Iranian government. However, the rise of the far-right Identity and Democracy group may weaken the overall stance against Iran, as they often abstain or do not participate in votes. The likelihood of passing resolutions against Iran has decreased slightly compared to the previous parliament.

The Philippe Bettan Gallery in Lyon, France, hosts a new exhibition by Iranian artist Elham Etemadi, curated by Aida Mojallal. Etemadi's work, influenced by her Iranian heritage, is described as romantic and joyful, featuring geometric shapes and vibrant colors. The exhibition highlights the cultural interplay between Eastern and Western art perspectives. Amidst this, France faces cultural budget cuts, with hopes for increased EU support through the 'Creative Europe' program. The exhibition runs until June 13.

Aida Asgharzadeh, an Iranian playwright born in France, discusses her motivations and experiences in writing a play that intertwines her family's history with the broader narrative of the Iranian Revolution. Her work, 'Iranian Dolls,' explores themes of cultural identity and resistance, drawing parallels between past and present movements in Iran. Asgharzadeh emphasizes the role of art in expressing resistance and fostering understanding, highlighting the importance of cultural connections and the shared experiences of Iranian expatriates. Her success with the Molière Prize has strengthened her ties to her Iranian heritage and underscored the significance of artistic expression in social movements.

The article features an interview with Mohammad Ali Homayoun Katouzian, who discusses the challenges of democracy in Iranian society, describing it as a 'short-term society' due to the lack of stable legal frameworks. He highlights the recurring cycle of authoritarian rule and rebellion in Iran's history, emphasizing issues like succession legitimacy, economic instability, and the devaluation of life and property. The recent protests, sparked by Mahsa Amini's death, are seen as part of this cycle. Katouzian questions the Iranian understanding of democracy, noting its unfamiliarity and the varied interpretations among the populace. He also discusses the potential and limitations of civil disobedience in effecting change, drawing comparisons with historical movements like India's independence struggle.