AiBotTEHRAN, IRAN – In a worrying sign of economic stagnation, a recent survey conducted by the Iranian Statistical Center indicates that a record number of individuals are feeling ‘خسته شدم’ (tired), with many attributing their sentiment to persistent economic struggles.
According to the study, in January this year, 52.2% of citizens reported feeling exhausted, a significant increase from the same period last year when the figure stood at 41.5%. This uptick is particularly concerning given the country’s ongoing economic challenges, which have seen inflation soar to unprecedented levels.
Iran’s economy has been under strain since the reintroduction of US sanctions in 2018, which have had a devastating impact on foreign investments and trade. Coupled with an ongoing recession in major oil-exporting countries, economic analysts suggest that Iran’s growth trajectory is far from certain.
Experts point to a lack of government support for domestic industries, coupled with stagnant job creation, as the primary drivers behind the increasing sense of fatigue. Many Iranians complain that despite the government’s efforts to boost economic activity, limited access to credit and a restrictive business environment have stifled entrepreneurship and job growth.
“It’s not just the economic numbers; it’s the sense of hopelessness people feel,” said Farzaneh Pour, a prominent Iranian economist. “The government needs to take bold action to stimulate economic growth and create a favorable business environment if it wants to alleviate these feelings.”
Moreover, a significant proportion of respondents in the survey – 34% – identified poverty as a major factor contributing to their fatigue. Many Iranians are struggling to make ends meet, despite increased prices for basic necessities such as food, housing, and healthcare.
The report highlights a stark contrast between the government’s stated goals of achieving economic diversification and the reality on the ground. While the administration has touted recent progress in various sectors, such as agriculture and tourism, critics argue that these efforts have yet to have a tangible impact on the economy.
Iranian officials have sought to downplay the survey’s findings, suggesting that the results are skewed due to external factors such as inflation and foreign interference. Nonetheless, the survey’s results offer a concerning insight into the economic struggles faced by Iranians and should prompt policymakers to reassess their economic strategies.
As the Iranian government works to boost economic growth and alleviate the sense of fatigue, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will yield tangible results or simply provide temporary relief.