Evaluate the effects of the 1979 Revolution in Iran.

Candidates are required to make an appraisal of the effects of the 1979 Revolution in Iran. Candidates may consider short and long-term effects in different fields. For political effects, candidates may consider the introduction of an Islamic republic, the suppression of secularism and the creation of new bodies of government. Candidates may also refer to the strict censorship applied to purge opponents from political parties, universities, services, and media. In the economic and social fields, Iran has had some success in broadening education and healthcare, and diversifying its economy, but was also denounced for corruption and economic inequality. Candidates may reflect on the status of women, who were excluded from the workforce and higher education. For foreign affairs, Iran experienced difficult relations with Western countries and some of its neighbours, especially Iraq. While other relevant factors may be referred to, the bulk of the response will remain focused on the issue raised in the question.

This question on the effects of the Iranian Revolution of 1979 was very popular and produced some very effective responses. Many candidates made reasonable attempts at this question. The problem encountered by many candidates was the failure to include an adequate range of results in their response and to support them with specific content. A few students discussed the wrong revolution which led to very poor results.