Western Sanctions Erode Iran's Middle Class, Fueling Resentment and Inequality

Western sanctions are rapidly diminishing the Iranian middle class, leading to heightened societal resentment and inequality, which could destabilize the region and impact the ongoing negotiations surrounding the Nuclear program of Iran.

• A study in the European Journal of Political Economy reveals that Western sanctions have significantly weakened the Iranian middle class since 2012, particularly affecting Tehrans economic stability.
• The diminishing middle class, once a pillar for political moderation in Iran, has fueled growing inequality and social unrest, raising concerns among the United Nations regarding future stability in the region.
• As the wealth gap widens, resentment towards the government grows, complicating diplomatic efforts involving key players like the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Russia regarding the Nuclear program of Iran.