Iran's Cafe Culture Faces Political And Economic Pressure

Iran’s cafe culture, once a fixture of urban social life, is facing mounting political and economic pressure, according to reporting by RFE/RL’s Radio Farda. Young Iranians describe cafes as among the few places to socialize and feel freer than on the streets, but inflation and renewed authorities’ scrutiny have narrowed options. The International Monetary Fund projects Iran’s inflation will reach nearly 69% this year, the highest since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Soaring prices are hitting customers and owners; one Tehran resident said 250 grams of coffee can cost 15,000,000 rials (about $8), reportedly double last year. The report also cites Internet disruption after attacks on February 28 and a widening crackdown on cafes, including closures for alleged violations such as playing Western music or allowing mixed-gender dancing. In early June, police forcibly closed a cafe in central Tehran after live music.