Analysis of Justice-Seeking Positions of Islamic Revolution Leaders in Addressing Labor Movements During the Struggle Against the Pahlavi Regime

Document Type : Political economy of Iran

Authors

1 Political science researcher, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran

2 Researcher in the History of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, Imam Hossein University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

This study examines the justice-oriented positions of the leaders of the Islamic Revolution of Iran in their approach to labor movements during the struggle against the Pahlavi regime. The prominent role of the working class in the political and social transformations of Iran, particularly in the formation and victory of the Islamic Revolution, underscores the importance of analyzing the perspectives and approaches of these leaders toward this group. A thematic analysis of the statements of the intellectual leaders of the Islamic Revolution — Imam Khomeini, Ayatollah Khamenei, Professor Motahari, and Ayatollah Beheshti — reveals that concepts such as Human dignity of workers, the role and responsibility of workers, the unjust conditions of workers in non-Islamic systems, and the justice-oriented duties of an Islamic government towards workers were central themes in their thoughts and concerns. Beyond critiquing the exploitative structures of the Pahlavi regime and contemporary leftist movements, the leaders of the revolution sought to present an Islamic and non-syncretic interpretation of justice and workers' rights, reinforcing the capacities of religious teachings in opposition to rival ideologies. These positions not only drew the working class closer to the Islamic Revolution but also positioned them as a key force in the downfall of the Pahlavi regime. Revisiting these perspectives today can serve as a valuable foundation for evaluating actions, enhancing policy-making, and effectively supporting the working class in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

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History

  • Receive Date: 11 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 27 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 27 August 2025
  • Publish Date: 23 September 2025

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