Chapter 5

The Reformist Mirage - Khatami's Presidency and its Legacy

The Rise and Fall of the Reform Movement under President Mohammad Khatami

The presidency of Mohammad Khatami, spanning from 1997 to 2005, marked a pivotal period in Iran's recent history, characterized by a robust reform movement that sought to democratize the political system, enhance civil liberties, and improve Iran’s relationship with the international community. However, this era also saw significant challenges and opposition, ultimately leading to the decline of the reformist agenda. This essay explores the rise and fall of Khatami’s reform movement, examining its origins, achievements, obstacles, and legacy.

 

The Rise of the Reform Movement

Mohammad Khatami’s unexpected victory in the 1997 presidential election was a watershed moment for Iran. Khatami, a relatively unknown cleric and former Minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance, won with nearly 70% of the vote, signalling widespread public desire for change.

 

1. **Origins and Appeal**: Khatami’s platform resonated with a broad spectrum of Iranian society, particularly the youth, women, and intellectuals. His promises of political openness, cultural freedom, and rule of law contrasted sharply with the conservative establishment's rigid policies. The reform movement was rooted in the desire for a more pluralistic society, freedom of expression, and an end to political repression.

2. **Key Policies and Reforms**: Once in office, Khatami initiated several reforms aimed at increasing political participation and civil liberties. He advocated for the rule of law, respect for human rights, and a more transparent and accountable government. Khatami’s administration saw a proliferation of newspapers and magazines, fostering a vibrant, albeit contentious, media landscape. He also promoted cultural and academic freedoms, encouraging a more open exchange of ideas.

 

Achievements of Khatami’s Reform Movement

Khatami’s presidency brought notable achievements that significantly impacted Iranian society and politics.

 

1. **Political and Social Liberalization**: Khatami’s tenure is often associated with a period of relative political and social liberalization. The expansion of civil society organizations, the formation of political parties, and increased political discourse characterized this era. Women's rights saw modest improvements, and there was a significant increase in youth engagement in politics and culture.

 

2. **Foreign Policy Initiatives**: On the international stage, Khatami pursued a policy of détente, famously advocating for a "Dialogue Among Civilizations" as a counter-narrative to Samuel Huntington’s "Clash of Civilizations" thesis. His efforts led to improved relations with several European countries and a temporary thaw in relations with the United States.

 

Obstacles and Opposition

Despite the initial successes, Khatami’s reform movement faced formidable opposition from conservative factions within Iran’s political establishment.

 

1. **The Role of Conservative Forces**: The conservative clerical establishment, which controlled key institutions like the Guardian Council, the judiciary, and the security apparatus, actively worked to undermine Khatami’s reforms. The Guardian Council frequently vetoed legislation passed by the reformist-dominated parliament, stalling many of Khatami’s initiatives.

2. **Political Repression**: The conservatives employed various strategies to suppress reformist activities, including censorship, imprisonment of activists and journalists, and violent crackdowns on student protests, most notably the 1999 Tehran University protests. These actions severely curtailed the momentum of the reform movement and instilled fear among its supporters.

3. **Internal Challenges**: The reform movement also suffered from internal divisions and a lack of coherent strategy. Differences in approach and priorities among reformists weakened their ability to present a united front against conservative opposition.

 

The Fall of the Reform Movement

The decline of the reform movement became evident during Khatami’s second term and culminated with the election of the hard-line president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad in 2005.

 

1. **Disillusionment and Voter Apathy**: Continued conservative resistance and the failure to achieve significant structural changes led to widespread disillusionment among Khatami’s supporters. Voter apathy and frustration with the slow pace of reform contributed to declining public support for the reformist agenda.

2. **Conservative Resurgence**: The conservatives capitalized on this disillusionment and portrayed themselves as defenders of Iran’s revolutionary values. Ahmadinejad’s populist rhetoric and promises to address economic disparities resonated with many Iranians, particularly the working class and rural populations.

 

3. **Structural Constraints**: The entrenched power of conservative institutions, including the Supreme Leader’s office and the Revolutionary Guards, made it exceedingly difficult for reformists to implement substantial changes. These structural constraints highlighted the limits of the presidency in effecting deep-seated reforms within Iran’s theocratic system.

 

Legacy and Continuing Impact

While Khatami’s reform movement ultimately faltered, its legacy endures in various forms.

 

1. **Cultural and Social Changes**: The cultural and social liberalization during Khatami’s presidency left a lasting impact on Iranian society. The increased political awareness and engagement among the youth and other demographic groups continued to influence Iranian politics.

2. **Reformist Ideals**: The reformist ideals of democracy, human rights, and rule of law remain influential within Iranian political discourse. Subsequent political movements, including the Green Movement of 2009, drew inspiration from the reformist agenda, seeking to continue the struggle for greater political freedom and social justice.

3. **Dialogue Among Civilizations**: Khatami’s advocacy for dialogue and his emphasis on cultural diplomacy have continued to resonate in international forums, promoting a more nuanced understanding of Iran and its aspirations.

Conclusion

The rise and fall of the reform movement under President Mohammad Khatami represent a significant chapter in Iran’s contemporary history. Despite facing substantial opposition and ultimately failing to achieve its broader goals, the movement left an indelible mark on Iranian society and politics. The period of Khatami’s presidency highlighted both the possibilities and limitations of reform within Iran’s unique political system, offering valuable lessons for future efforts to balance the demands for change with the realities of entrenched power structures.