The Islamic Revolution Approach

The Islamic Revolution Approach

Necessity and State of Exception in the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 Department of Law and Political Science, Qeshm Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qeshm, Iran
2 Department of Public Law, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
3 Department of Public Law, Faculty of Humanities, Bandar Abbas Branch, Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
Abstract
Social relations are often complex, tense, and conflictual, which is why in most societies, law is established as the final arbiter of disputes, providing a standard for behavior and resolving conflicts when they arise. Although it is universally accepted that the law should be applied consistently and without exception, there are instances where exceptions apply. Force majeure in private law and the state of exception in public law are examples where the rule of law is suspended. In this context, the main question of this article addresses the necessity and state of exception in the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The hypothesis of the article is that Iran's current Constitution, as a modern legal structure, possesses significant governing capacities, one of which is the application of necessity and the establishment of a state of exception. The research findings suggest that public law in Iran can benefit from three categories of necessity: legislative, executive, and specific, which provide significant governmental tools. The approach of the article is analytical-descriptive, and the data collection method is library-based and document-based.
Introduction
The concept of a "state of exception" has been a pivotal element in legal theory, particularly when addressing scenarios that threaten national security or public safety. This concept permits the temporary suspension of legal norms that are otherwise inviolable, under the pretext of necessity. The study begins with a comprehensive examination of the philosophical underpinnings laid out by notable theorists like Carl Schmitt and Giorgio Agamben, who have significantly influenced the understanding and application of this theory.
Main Body
The research systematically analyzes historical instances where states of exception have been declared, drawing from a range of global contexts to illustrate both the necessity and the dangers associated with such declarations. These examples help delineate the thin line between necessary protection and potential abuse of power. The study further explores the legal frameworks that govern the declaration of a state of exception, emphasizing the need for stringent controls and clear criteria to prevent misuse.
Key aspects of the study include:

Legal Justification: Understanding the legal grounds and thresholds necessary for invoking a state of exception. This involves a detailed analysis of constitutional texts and international law.
Impact on Civil Liberties: Examining the implications for civil rights when normal legal protections are suspended. The research critiques the balance between safeguarding public welfare and preserving individual freedoms.
Control and Oversight: Proposing mechanisms for ensuring that the use of emergency powers is appropriately checked by other branches of government or through international oversight.

Theoretical discussions are interspersed with practical evaluations of recent case studies, where countries have navigated complex emergencies like terrorism, pandemics, and political unrest. This part of the study underscores the practical challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by governments in maintaining legality and legitimacy during crises.
Conclusion
The study concludes that while the state of exception is a necessary legal tool for dealing with extraordinary situations, it carries significant risks, especially regarding the erosion of democratic norms and civil liberties. The findings advocate for a balanced approach that ensures the protection of public safety without compromising the fundamental principles of justice and human rights. The study calls for enhanced legal frameworks that include clear guidelines, strict oversight, and robust safeguards to prevent the abuse of emergency powers.
Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the state of exception as a complex legal and ethical concept, offering insights that are vital for lawmakers, scholars, and practitioners in the fields of law and public administration.
Keywords

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