Gozaar

Dear readers,

Four years ago, Gozaar was launched as a monthly Persian/English web journal on democracy and human rights in Iran. Gozaar (meaning ‘transition’) was a response to the Iranian regime’s stifling of free expression. While the regime suppressed independent media, Gozaar created an inclusive and vibrant space for discussion on a range of important and sensitive issues. Gozaar received contributions from highly reputable investigative journalists, political analysts, human rights activists, bloggers, commentators and satirists; and it provided a platform emerging young writers.

Gozaar’s ability to convene diverse voices has allowed it to attract a wide variety of viewpoints and open vigorous debates on issues that are critical to Iran’s future. Thanks to your consistent contributions, participation, and loyal readership, Gozaar became known for its quality, timeliness, open-mindedness, and its unique range of opinions. Gozaar supported human rights and democratic aspirations of a great many Iranians by challenging repression and abuses of power. Gozaar pushed the red lines that the Iranian regime had drawn and provided a space for free expression on regime-banned topics, including: minority, labor, and women’s rights; democratic principles of secularism and federalism; misgivings about reformist leaders; and the future of the Green Movement.

Despite these achievements, due to insufficient funding, we regret to say that Gozaar’s activities have ended.

The site is archived and will remain accessible. Gozaar is now a resource hosting some of Iran's leading writers and activists on democracy and human rights issues. Through its archived library, Gozaar also provides you with practical manuals that you can use to organize politically and to protect human rights.

Freedom House will continue to vigorously support the cause of democracy and human rights in Iran. We have greatly appreciated your support in this endeavor.

Yours sincerely,

Freedom House