Economic Sanctions, Resistance Economies and Authoritarian Adaptation: A Comparative Study of Iran’s Resilience from Rouhani to Raisi

Abstract

This article examines the reasons why, contrary to the expectations of many, the international sanctions were of benefit to the authoritarian regime of Iran, under President Hassan Rouhani. It draws upon a close reading of official speeches, policy documents, and other reports in order to establish that despite the fact that sanctions worsened the economy the sanctions did not drive the country into greater liberty. The elite was secure due to strong friends and employment and could continue the running of the government by changing the trade partners of the country. The research concludes that the only way of strengthening the authoritarian regime and harming common citizens is through broad, non-targeted sanctions. Sanctions must target particular malpractices, collaborate with other nations, and be accompanied by diplomatic assistance and invitations to civil organizations to prevent empowering hard-liner leaders in the future.