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The work of the ICOIA is driven by the professional needs of Iranian academics and students, providing a community and platform for serving their interests around the world. The primary objective of the ICOIA is assisting Iranian academics and students inside and outside Iran, with a strong focus on supporting those who are now in the frontline of the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement. The ICOIA strongly believes in and advocates for the freedom of information, opinion, and expression.
The ICOIA operates as a decentralised network-based organization with a strong international membership. We have members from all around the world, including (but not limited to) the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Finland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Iran. The ICOIA has a democratic mandate based on which its elected executive board changes regularly.
All members of the ICOIA are Iranian academics who work or study at international higher education institutions around the world. We respect the privacy of our members who do not wish to be known publicly for safety reasons. More information on some of the core members of the ICOIA can be found in the “About” page. You can learn more about ICOIA activities through our social media channels.
We are not a registered entity yet. We are a growing independent academic network. However, we are assessing the need and requirements of registering the ICOIA as an NGO, in democratic countries. We believe registering the ICOIA will open a wide range of opportunities to advance our agenda.
All ICOIA activities are undertaken by volunteers. We have not received any external financial support and will maintain this position to preserve our independence. The ICOIA members, however, have access to international academic funds that enable their individual support for Iranian academics and students through education and research collaboration, conferences, joint publications, and various research opportunities. The ICOIA is committed to transparency in terms of its future funding.
We do not have any political inclinations or affiliations and avoid siding with any political party or group as an entity. Individual members of the community can, however, have their own personal political preferences and opinions that do not necessarily represent the ICOIA views.
Membership is open to all academics of Iranian heritage from all disciplines at various levels, including those in part-time, full-time and casual roles as well as students in various degrees and courses in higher education institutions, subject to an appropriate verification process.
Yes, volunteers are invaluable assets for ICOIA, who generously provide their precious time, energy, and dedication toward achieving our mission and objectives. Please visit our “Membership” page for more information or get in touch to discuss.