Iran’s Measures to Counter COVID-19 and Support the Right to Health

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic posed a serious challenge to health systems and crisis management worldwide, particularly in Iran. This study examines Iran’s measures to combat COVID-19 and to support the right to health, which represents an essential dimension of solidarity rights at the global level. The main research question is: What actions has Iran undertaken to counter COVID-19 and support the right to health? The findings indicate that, in the absence of a specific public health emergency law, the Iranian government relied on existing legal frameworks and created special management structures to curb the spread of the virus while safeguarding access to scientific and public information. The establishment of specialized task forces for information management, combating misinformation, and coordinating among various institutions was among the most significant actions. Additionally, allocating special budgets, providing free medical services to COVID-19 patients, and implementing community-based care systems with the participation of local organizations played an effective role in promoting public health. Welfare policies such as tax exemptions and reduced energy costs were also introduced to mitigate the economic burden on citizens. However, legal gaps, limitations in the diversity and timeliness of information dissemination, and the need for stronger inter-agency coordination remain key challenges. These experiences highlight the necessity of drafting more comprehensive legislation and strengthening health and communication infrastructures to ensure better preparedness for future crises. The present article uses a descriptive–analytical approach, and data collection was conducted through documentary and library-based methods.