Iran

Iran faces a challenging domestic and geopolitical situation. Economic stagnation, youth unrest, sanctions and regional conflicts are straining the stability of the regime. Against this backdrop, Iran is using its external cultural policy (ECP) to gain regional influence, particularly in the Middle East, especially in Iraq and Syria. At the same time, the country wants to extend its understanding of Shia religion, politics and culture to other regions in order to gain economic and political partners. So far, Iran has tried to exert influence in Europe and in countries that are more politically opposed to the US. Increasing tensions between the US, China and Russia may encourage Iran to adopt an ‚anti-Western‘ stance and seek alliances (Merat, 2022). Regardless of geopolitical developments, Iran is likely to continue trying to manage great power rivalry, shape the region through cultural influence and promote its religion.