Boisean born in Iran: Hope for the future relies on a paradigm shift | Opinion

Once again, the Iranian people are at a breaking point. Economic, political and social pressures have triggered widespread protests across the country. This pattern of unrest is not new and this likely won’t be the last instance, as Iranians continue to challenge the inefficiencies of the clerical regime. It’s clear that the current government is not capable of effectively governing a nation of over 90 million people and must be replaced.

This message is for all Iranians, wherever they are:

Dear fellow Iranians,

In these turbulent times, I often reflect on why, as a nation rich in history, culture, education and resources, we still face such persistent challenges. Perhaps the answer lies in how we understand our role as citizens and how we govern ourselves.

My perspective is shaped by both concern and experience. I came to America as a young man and later returned to Iran during the eight-year war to serve my country. Afterward, I settled in the U.S., established my family, and became a proud Iranian-American. My enduring love for Iran has been informed by nearly five decades of living abroad and witnessing various forms of governance, from Europe to the Middle East and America.

This experience has shown me that effective systems do exist and can be adapted to our needs. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel.

For generations, we have awaited a savior, but we have learned that relying on one individual or a small group is risky, as human beings are limited and fallible.

Consider how we trust complex systems in everyday life. When we board a plane, we rely on more than just the pilot. We depend on a network of controls and safeguards. Similarly, in governance, we should not rely solely on a few individuals.

Instead, we must build a collective system that draws on the wisdom of the people, modern knowledge and proven practices, adaptable to our unique needs. This system should ensure that citizens actively participate in electing their leaders and that no position of power is held indefinitely.

Here are the key elements of such a system:

• Rule of Law: Laws should reflect collective wisdom and societal needs, not individual agendas
• Separation of Powers: Legislative, executive and judicial branches must be independent and accountable
• Independent Oversight: Autonomous bodies must ensure transparency and accountability
• Nonpolitical Military: The armed forces should serve the nation, not any faction
• Religious Freedom: All religions must be respected, and religion must remain separate from governance
• Self-Correcting Governance: The system should address corruption and inefficiency through automatic review and reform, rather than ignoring them
• Cultivation of Informed Citizens: The success of any healthy system depends on educated, aware, and responsible citizens. This process begins in schools and continues throughout civic life

My fellow Iranians, our current situation stems from deep distrust, inefficiencies and concentrated power. To build a better future, we must transition from individual-centered governance to one grounded in principles and institutions. This approach doesn’t undermine human leadership; rather, it minimizes human error and allows society to flourish.

Creating such a system requires patient dialogue, respect for differences, and a commitment to communal values. It’s not a quick fix; it demands wisdom and mutual understanding.

As an ordinary citizen who loves Iran and cares deeply about our future, I share these thoughts not as an expert, but as a fellow citizen with hope. Let us stop waiting for a savior and, through our collective wisdom, shape our own destiny.

Mansour Karimi is a former military pilot, corporate executive, business owner now retired and enjoying solitude and tranquility of beautiful Idaho.