Introduction

Abstract

In June 2013, the moderate cleric Hassan Rouhani was declared winner of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s presidential election. Touting “hope and prudence” as his campaign slogan, Rouhani represented a shift from a road of intensifying isolation and economic depletion to one with the potential for international engagement. The extent of Rouhani’s long-term ability to meet the expectations placed on him by his domestic and international supporters and observers remains to be seen; however, his victory represents a renewed optimism and sense of political vigor amongst citizens opposed to the existing political, social, and economic circumstances. Most importantly, by taking to the streets to campaign, vote, and celebrate, a plurality of voices showed a willingness to express themselves despite restrictions enforced by conservative state factions and the possibility of imprisonment for those deemed to be detrimental to the future of the Islamic regime.