Comparative Study of Hate Crimes in the Legal Systems of Iran and the West
Keywords:
Hate crimes, discrimination, criminal law, freedom of expression, Iran, comparative lawAbstract
This study aims to provide a comparative analysis of the conceptual, legal, and procedural frameworks of hate crimes in the legal system of the Islamic Republic of Iran and selected Western countries.This research follows a narrative review approach using descriptive analysis. Data were collected from legal documents, academic articles, judicial rulings, and international reports published between 2018 and 2024. The analysis was conducted across four dimensions: conceptual, legislative, institutional, and cultural, and was comparatively examined between Iran and Western legal systems. The findings indicate that Iran’s legal system lacks a specific definition for hate crimes, resulting in ambiguity within legislative and judicial processes. Additionally, the absence of protective structures, independent data systems, and professional training hinders effective response to such crimes. In contrast, Western countries have developed comprehensive laws, active support institutions, specialized training, and multilayered policies, resulting in greater efficacy in addressing hate-motivated offenses. There is a pressing need for Iran to develop a comprehensive law on hate crimes as part of broader criminal justice reform. Such a law should include precise definitions, effective enforcement mechanisms, and victim support structures, while drawing on international experiences to meet Iran's specific cultural and social context.
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