The Nature of the "General Policies of the System" in the Legal System of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Following the triumph of the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, the establishment of the Islamic government became a reality with the approval of the Constitution based on the principle of "Guardianship of the Competent." In the early years of implementing the constitution, deficiencies and necessary reforms became apparent, leading to amendments in 1989. Among the reforms, articles 1 and 2 of article 110 of the Constitution were introduced to enhance the role of the Supreme Leader. This paper critically explores the legal nature of the "General Policies of the System," a novel legal institution introduced officially in 1989.

Research Question:

The central question addressed in this research is: what is the legal nature of the general policies of the System within the Iranian legal system?

Research Hypothesis:

The hypothesis under consideration is that the General Policies of the System constitute a modern legal entity within the Iranian legal system, with their nature rooted in the Islamic principles and the theory of absolute guardianship of the competent. The normative nature of these policies, rather than directive, forms the basis for their legal analysis.

Methodology & Framework, if Applicable:

This research employs an analytical approach, utilizing library-based data collection. The methodology involves a comprehensive examination of the legal aspects surrounding the nature of the general policies of the system. The framework includes evaluating impacts, presenting arguments, critiquing these arguments, and presenting positive evidence. Special attention is given to the legal foundations, understanding the constitutional intent, and adopting a comprehensive perspective.

The analysis reveals that determining the legal nature of the General Policies of the System requires a deep legal investigation, detached from political discussions. The institution is presented as a modern legal entity, established officially in 1989, reflecting the evolving legal landscape of the Islamic Republic of Iran. However, critiques point to three main deficiencies in existing analyses: the neglect of legal foundations rooted in Islamic concepts, a lack of understanding of the constitutional legislator's intent, and a failure to adopt a comprehensive perspective in analyzing this innovative concept.
     The research criticizes arguments supporting the directive nature of the general policies of the system, emphasizing the need for a meticulous examination of legal foundations. It positively establishes the normative nature of these policies, considering this aspect a crucial element in correctly analyzing various related issues. The legal nature is rooted in the Islamic principles and the theory of absolute guardianship of the competent, highlighting the innovative nature of this institution within the Iranian legal system.

In conclusion, this research underscores the importance of a comprehensive legal analysis to determine the nature of the General Policies of the System in Iran. It highlights deficiencies in existing analyses, emphasizing the neglect of legal foundations, a lack of understanding of the constitutional legislator's intent, and the absence of a comprehensive perspective. The paper critiques arguments supporting the directive nature of these policies and positively establishes their normative nature, rooted in Islamic principles and the theory of absolute guardianship of the competent. While the normative nature has to some extent been solidified in constitutional practice, the article calls for further research to address remaining gaps and deficiencies and proposes mechanisms for their practical application within the political system based on legal principles. This research contributes to a nuanced understanding of the legal nature of the General Policies of the System for a non-Iranian audience, shedding light on their historical background, legal developments, and challenges within the Iranian legal system.