Protestors massing on the streets across Iran want something different from their government. That is for sure. But is also true that the current theocratic system ruled by the Mullahs may not allow for what the people want.
So what should a new government look like in a possible future Iran?
One that protects liberties for people equally under the law says exiled Crown Prince, Reza Pahlavi. We spoke extensively about the matter and how it might help attract business back to the country earlier this week. You can watch our conversation here.
"Iranians have long endured inability" to get legal protection, he says. In fact, sometimes lawyers representing the accused get thrown in jail as well, he says.
What should the government look like and would it involve him (Raza Pahlavi) being monarch? He says the people of Iran must decide what type of government they want and say so via a referendum. He notes that democracy takes several forms, such as the constitutional monarchy as in the U.K. and a republican system as in the U.S.
"All of this has to be decided in a constitutional process... where free elections can be guaranteed," he says. "We need to debate all the merits and value and propose it to the people in a referendum."
Notably, what he did not say is that any new system in Iran needs to have him at the helm.
What he did discuss was the need for an independent and strong judiciary. That way no one would be above the rule of law.
But just having a good constitution isn't enough. He says other elements are needed in a free society such as a vibrant media, labor movements, and non-governmental organizations. "It is all part of a society that is democratic when people assume their civic responsibilities," he adds.
