Iran and the West have maintained interactions throughout history. Although the nature and forms of this relationship have been a combination of war, conflict, competition, and cooperation, the two sides have almost never been indifferent or self-sufficient regarding each other. Therefore, dialogue and engagement have always been a constant necessity in their relations.
In recent decades, Iran and the West have held different and sometimes opposing positions and policies on various issues. In such an environment, whenever the level of dialogue and interaction between them has diminished, the volume of misunderstandings and misperceptions has increased. This situation is further complicated by the presence of various actors and groups that actively seek to disrupt communication and shape each side’s perception of the other. Even when the policies and stances of both sides are entirely divergent or conflicting, the need for dialogue and exchange of views remains undeniable.
In the current environment, where official state diplomacy and political-level discussions face multiple challenges and constraints, academic institutions, research centers, and think tanks can play a vital role in maintaining channels of dialogue and engagement between the two sides.
The Contemporary Nations Studies Institute (Iran-eurica), as an independent think tank that has been active in the field of specialized studies on the United States and Europe in Iran for over a decade, has defined one of its key missions in this regard. Its goal is not only to enhance the understanding of Iranian experts and policymakers about the United States and Europe but also to provide a platform for dialogue and engagement with think tanks and research centers in Europe and the United States. Through these efforts, the institute seeks to contribute to a more accurate and realistic understanding of the policies of the Islamic Republic. To this end, in recent years, the institute has invited European and American experts to Iran in various formats and has organized joint seminars with European and American think tanks.
Perspectives magazine aims to provide Western analysts and policymakers with a clear picture of Iran’s perceptions and policies on various issues by leveraging the views and insights of Iranian political officials and analysts. The magazine primarily features articles and interviews with current or former diplomats, university professors, and Iranian analysts, offering a realistic and unaltered representation of Iran and its policies to the West. This approach not only improves Western understanding and presents a realistic image of the Islamic Republic of Iran but also creates a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas.
Although the content and statements published in the magazine reflect solely the personal opinions of the contributors and do not, in any way, represent the official position of the Islamic Republic of Iran, they provide a valuable window for Western audiences to better understand the logic behind Iran’s foreign policy decisions and strategies.
