FAQ
What is the Council for a Democratic Iran (CDI)?
CDI is a non-profit organization of varied ethnic, religious and political groups that reflect the profound diversity of the Iranian diaspora. Our members believe that all Iranians, irrespective of their religion or ethnic backgrounds, are entitled to live in a country free from persecution and abuse. We do not seek to impose a solution for the people of Iran but we would like their many voices heard in democratic debate.
What is CDI’s goal?
CDI wants to see a free, democratic, tolerant, secular Iran that is at peace with the world. In the short term, we need to change the conversation about Iran from a nuclear focus to the more thorough examination of human rights abuses of Iranians under the present regime.
What is going on inside Iran?
Democracy and human rights are being suppressed under the current regime. Iranians cannot freely choose their own leaders, as the Supreme Leader has authority over Presidential and parliamentary elections. As multiple reports by human rights groups and the State Department testify, religious minorities are imprisoned, harassed, intimidated and discriminated against simply for practicing their faith. Journalists, artists and students are imprisoned for speaking honestly and openly. The media and the internet are heavily censored. The youth inside Iran are becoming increasingly energized to seek a new way for their country. To read the latest news from Iran, click here.
Who are your affiliates? Who do you represent in the diaspora?
We are bringing together a coalition of many different groups and individuals within the diaspora who share our goal of a peaceful and free Iran. These include political parties, student groups, cultural organizations and human rights advocates. We are the only organization seeking to unite different stakeholders under one common banner of democratic change.
The Iranian diaspora is notoriously fractious. How are you going to unite these groups?
While there are a wide range of views within the diaspora, the great majority of Iranians outside Iran share the goal of a return to peace and freedom in their homeland. CDI seeks to build a bridge between these groups by focusing on what unites Iranians rather than what divides them. Since CDI is not advocating one political party over another, we can serve as a legitimate, respected and trusted umbrella group.
What outcome does CDI want to see in Iran?
We believe in a modern Iran: an open society where people are free to follow their chosen faith; where political leaders are chosen directly by the people in free and fair elections; where there is freedom of expression; where the rights of minorities and the vulnerable are protected and where Iranian women participate as full members of society.
Are you advocating regime change?
We want to see change in Iran, but we do not believe in the idea of military intervention or violent overthrow. We want to see peaceful, democratic change by empowering the Iranian people to determine their government.
Are you or are you seeking to be a shadow government?
No. While we aim to draw attention to the abuses of the current regime and wish to see an Iran that is free and democratic, we believe in letting the people of Iran determine their government in free and fair elections. We are not a ¡°government in exile.¡± Our intent is to energize people inside and outside of Iran to seek a better path for the country and its people.
What does being an affiliate of CDI mean?
It means that your organization supports our general principles as listed on our website and is willing to be part of the CDI coalition. It does not in any way impact your own independence as an organization. You will be able to participate in the various events that CDI organizes with all the benefits of belonging to a wider family.
What does CDI want from me?
We would like you to join this coalition of groups advocating for peaceful change in Iran. There are numerous ways you can help. You can sign up your organization as an affiliate of CDI or you can join as an individual member. In addition, we will amplify your voice on common issues by you sending us information on what is going on inside Iran, including videos and photographs. You can contribute to CDI financially as well. To get involved, click here.
