-
Research Article
Women, Resistance, and Digital Activism: The “Woman, Life, Freedom” Movement in Iran
Amara Sehar Qureshi*
,
Tabasum Firdous
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
137-143
Received:
4 June 2026
Accepted:
18 June 2026
Published:
8 July 2026
Abstract: Iranian Contemporary politics took a sharp turn towards global feminist resistance after the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022 who was arrested and assaulted by Iran’s morality police for allegedly violating mandatory hijab laws. Her death sparked nationwide demonstration under the slogan “Woman, Life, Freedom”. The movement evolved into a broader revolutionary movement against authoritarian patriarchy, gender discrimination, censorship, and systemic repression in the Islamic Republic of Iran. This chapter studies the Iranian uprising through feminist theory, digital activism studies, postcolonial perspectives, historical analysis, and human rights discourse. It contends that the movement represents at its core a fight for bodily autonomy, democratic participation, gender equality, dignity, and political freedom. It further compares the uprising with the French Revolution, the Russian Revolution, and the Sudanese Revolution to explore the patterns, drivers and outcomes of global revolts. The paper argues that the modern media platforms such as Instagram, X, Telegram, and TikTok are vital in mobilizing resistance, documenting state brutality, and constructing global solidarity networks. Digital media transformed Iranian women from subjects of state regulation to vocal political activists capable of pushing back authoritarian narratives in real time. The chapter also discovers the paradoxes of digital feminism, counting algorithmic sensationalism, cyber surveillance, internet shutdowns, and state repression. In addition, the chapter analyses the historical evolution of Iran from a comparatively liberalizing monarchy under the Pahlavi era to a theocratic state governed by Islamic jurisprudence after the 1979 Revolution. It examines how the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement may shape the future of Iran and discusses how Iranian governance could balance women’s liberties with theological principles through democratic reforms, reinterpretations of Islamic jurisprudence, and inclusive political participation.
Abstract: Iranian Contemporary politics took a sharp turn towards global feminist resistance after the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022 who was arrested and assaulted by Iran’s morality police for allegedly violating mandatory hijab laws. Her death sparked nationwide demonstration under the slogan “Woman, Life, Freedom”. The movement evolved into a bro...
Show More
-
Research Article
Geopolitics of Buddhism and Its Impact in Buddha’s Birthplace
Madhav Thapa*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
144-154
Received:
13 June 2026
Accepted:
25 June 2026
Published:
17 July 2026
Abstract: Nepal, the birthplace of lord Buddha, a cultural corridor, and transmission of Buddhism between Indian and Chinese civilizations is transforming into the geopolitical battleground of Buddhism between India, China and USA on the verge of selection of the 15th Dalai Lama. The study aims at studying the geopolitics of Buddhism in the Himalayas, the probable conflict between the Dalai Lama Foundation and Beijing regarding the selection of the 15th Dalai Lama and its implications on the birthplace of Lord Buddha-Nepal. The study adopts Alexander E. Wendt’s ‘Agent-Structure Problem in International Relation Theory’ to analyse the actors of geopolitics and structural culture in the Buddhism geopolitics of the Himalayas. The study is qualitative in design and primarily based in secondary data collected through various journal articles, books and websites. The primary data required for the study are collected through Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) to understand the Buddhist diplomacy and geopolitics of Buddhism on the selection of the 15th Dalai Lama. The study discovers that the conflict is inevitable between Dalai Lama and Beijing on the reincarnation of the 15th Dalai Lama which leads to the selection of two Dalai Lamas. It brings clear division and confusion among the Buddhist communities all over the world which will shape the security and political dynamics of the Himalayas nations. The study confirms Nepal will be more sufferer on the Buddhism geopolitics among the big powers which is more likely to raise question on its non-alignment and neutrality policy.
Abstract: Nepal, the birthplace of lord Buddha, a cultural corridor, and transmission of Buddhism between Indian and Chinese civilizations is transforming into the geopolitical battleground of Buddhism between India, China and USA on the verge of selection of the 15th Dalai Lama. The study aims at studying the geopolitics of Buddhism in the Himalayas, the pr...
Show More
-
Research Article
Hyper-Structural Decoupling and Democratic Instability:
An MPT-SST Theoretical Analysis of Political Polarization in Western Democracies
Aliyu Sani Kafinga*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
155-160
Received:
6 February 2026
Accepted:
20 February 2026
Published:
22 July 2026
Abstract: Political polarization in Western democracies represents a multidimensional crisis that threatens the foundational legitimacy of governance systems. This article proposes the Metaphysical Peace Theory and Spiritual-Structural Transformation (MPT-SST) as a novel theoretical framework to reconceptualize this polarization as hyper-structural decoupling—a phenomenon occurring when formal democratic institutions function procedurally while the underlying collective consciousness and ethical norms progressively erode. Through a comprehensive theoretical synthesis of interdisciplinary literature spanning political science, social psychology, and communication studies, this paper models the cognitive, ethical, and structural mechanisms that generate and sustain polarization. The framework is illustratively applied to diverse democratic contexts including the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, Australia, and Canada, demonstrating its diagnostic utility across varying political systems. MPT-SST introduces three interdependent pillars, Consciousness Resonance (CR), Ethical Coherence (EC), and Structural Alignment (SA), whose harmonization determines democratic resilience. The analysis reveals that structural integrity alone cannot guarantee substantive legitimacy when consciousness and ethical foundations deteriorate. This study contributes a novel theoretical model for understanding democratic instability and offers a conceptual roadmap for designing interventions that address polarization at its metaphysical roots, thereby providing scholars and policymakers with an integrated approach to strengthening democratic systems against fragmentary pressures.
Abstract: Political polarization in Western democracies represents a multidimensional crisis that threatens the foundational legitimacy of governance systems. This article proposes the Metaphysical Peace Theory and Spiritual-Structural Transformation (MPT-SST) as a novel theoretical framework to reconceptualize this polarization as hyper-structural decouplin...
Show More
-
Research Article
Uganda People's Defence Forces Roles in Disaster Management
Colonel Kenneth Shillingi,
Colonel Otieno Godfred Ohndyl*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
161-174
Received:
29 June 2026
Accepted:
11 July 2026
Published:
30 July 2026
Abstract: This study examines the role of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in disaster management and response. The study is necessary to address gaps in national government crisis and disaster response and coordination mechanisms. The specific objectives were to examine types, causes, and impacts of disasters in Uganda, assess role of UPDF and identify strategies for strengthening national crises response mechanisms by government. The research adopted mixed methods approaches, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study using Yamane sample size formula, applied stratified simple sampling to identify 384 respondents from 5 million target population frequently affected by disasters in Uganda. The study areas were West Nile sub-region, (drought and refugee influx), Bududa District (landslides), and Kasese District (flooding of River Nyamwamba). Data was quantitatively analysed using SPSS through nonparametric descriptive statistics generating tables, pie-charts, and bar graphs. The study found that floods and droughts are the most prevalent disasters in Uganda, largely driven by climate variability, deforestation, unplanned urbanization, population pressure and weak institutional policies. The study recommends strengthening Office of the Prime Minister, Disaster Preparedness and Management and UPDF response capabilities with specialised surveillance infrastructure, equipment, training of technical personnel, acquisition of early warning AI driven technology and sufficient budgetary allocations for proactive planning, responses, control and management. Civil-Military coordination with humanitarian agencies for efficiency and effectiveness. The Uganda government should also establish permanent communication channels in areas prone to disasters for flowless communication, reporting, coordination, response and management as part of overall national development, defence and security strategy.
Abstract: This study examines the role of Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in disaster management and response. The study is necessary to address gaps in national government crisis and disaster response and coordination mechanisms. The specific objectives were to examine types, causes, and impacts of disasters in Uganda, assess role of UPDF and identify...
Show More
-
Research Article
A Comparative Assessment of Voting Patterns, Political Trust, and Perceived Political Freedom Among the Mende and the Temne During APC and SLPP Administrations
Shekou Ansumana Nuni*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
175-187
Received:
1 June 2026
Accepted:
13 June 2026
Published:
10 August 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jpsir.20260903.15
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Ethnicity and regional identity have long been integrated into political strategies employed by elites to mobilize electoral support in Sierra Leone. Although such strategies can facilitate political participation and collective mobilization, they may also deepen ethnic divisions and reinforce political ideologies based on ethnic cleavages. Against this backdrop, this study examined and compared the political behavior and perceptions of political freedom among members of the two major ethnic groups in Sierra Leone, the Mende and Temne, during the presidential administrations of the two dominant political parties, the All People's Congress (APC) and the Sierra Leone People's Party (SLPP). The study adopted a quantitative research approach using secondary data obtained from Afrobarometer survey rounds 5, 6, 8, and 9. Cross-tabulation analysis was employed to examine patterns of voting behavior, levels of trust in political institutions, and perceptions of political freedom across the two ethnic groups and political administrations. The findings revealed that ethnicity continues to influence citizens' political behavior in Sierra Leone. Evidence of ethnic affiliation was observed in respondents' voting patterns and in their levels of trust in the president and the ruling party under both APC and SLPP administrations. Despite these ethnic tendencies, the majority of respondents believed that citizens were free to join any political organization and vote for candidates of their choice, indicating political freedom within the democratic process. The study concludes that ethno-regional cleavages remain evident in the political behavior of Sierra Leoneans, even in the presence of perceived political freedoms. It recommends that policymakers, political parties, and civil society organizations strengthen civic education and promote issue-based politics to reduce ethnic polarisation and foster national cohesion in Sierra Leone's democratic governance.
Abstract: Ethnicity and regional identity have long been integrated into political strategies employed by elites to mobilize electoral support in Sierra Leone. Although such strategies can facilitate political participation and collective mobilization, they may also deepen ethnic divisions and reinforce political ideologies based on ethnic cleavages. Against...
Show More
-
Research Article
Postal Ballot Voting Patterns in India: A Comparative Analysis of State Assembly Elections 2026
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 3, September 2026
Pages:
188-198
Received:
7 July 2026
Accepted:
22 July 2026
Published:
10 August 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.jpsir.20260903.16
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Postal ballots have emerged as a crucial mechanism of electoral participation in India, particularly for government employees, armed forces personnel, election-duty staff, persons with disabilities, essential service workers, electors above the age of 85 years, and other categories of voters who are unable to participate through conventional polling methods. Understanding postal ballot behaviours is weighty because it provides insights into the political preferences of influential administrative groups and contributes to broader studies of electoral dynamics. However, existing electoral research has largely focused on general voter behaviour and party performance through Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) based results in general, while limited attention has been given to the voting patterns of postal ballot voters in particular. This study aims to analyse the voting patterns of postal ballot voters in the 2026 Legislative Assembly elections of Assam, Kerala, Puducherry, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal by comparing postal vote shares with overall EVM-based electoral outcomes. The study adopts a comparative quantitative approach using Election Commission of India data on postal ballots, EVM votes, and alliance-wise electoral performances with their previous election trends. The key findings reveal significant variations between postal and general voting trends. In Kerala, and Tamil Nadu, West Bengal changes in postal vote shares (2026) reflected shifts in a way from incumbent alliances with LDF 38.9% and DMK+ 38% and TMC+ 33.7%, against to their previous election (2021) postal ballot vote share to 48.7%, 62.2%, and 46.9% respectively witnessed significant decline, whereas Assam and Puducherry demonstrated different patterns, where postal ballot trends did not always correspond directly with overall electoral outcomes. The study highlights the distinct role of postal ballots and its largest share of service voters as an informed electoral segment and offers a unique perspective on bureaucratic electoral preferences and enhances understanding of occupational groups in contemporary Indian electoral politics.
Abstract: Postal ballots have emerged as a crucial mechanism of electoral participation in India, particularly for government employees, armed forces personnel, election-duty staff, persons with disabilities, essential service workers, electors above the age of 85 years, and other categories of voters who are unable to participate through conventional pollin...
Show More
