Iran is currently experiencing one of the most complex and tense periods in its history. Since December 29 of last year, thousands of people have lost their lives amidst widespread protests, economic difficulties, and political turmoil engulfing the country. Unfortunately, among those who perished during these events are dozens of our compatriots — Iranian Azerbaijanis.
Modern.az reports that amidst the tensions, the question that has become relevant again is: How many Azerbaijanis actually live in Iran?
According to the latest data from 2025 and UN projections, Iran's total population has exceeded 92 million. This makes Iran one of the largest states in the region, both in terms of territory and population. However, in official Tehran's statistics, ethnic composition is often presented under the general identity of "Muslim" or "Iranian," which makes it difficult to determine precise figures.
Based on contemporary research and international reports, the approximate ethnic landscape of Iran is as follows:
Persians 50% - 61%
Azerbaijanis 16% - 35% (disputed)
Kurds 10%
Lurs 6%
Balochs 2%
Arabs 2%
Turkmens and other Turkic tribes 2%
The phrase "30 million compatriots," popular in Azerbaijan for years, is not merely a figure but has also become a political symbol. But to what extent is this figure realistic?
Although there are no official figures, Iranian demographers usually estimate the number of Azerbaijanis to be around 16-18% of the population (approximately 15-17 million). However, independent centers, many Azerbaijani researchers, and national activists state that this figure is 30 million, or even more than 35 million.
The reason for this uncertainty is that ethnic affiliation is not inquired about during population censuses in Iran. Furthermore, the assimilation of millions of Azerbaijanis living in large cities such as Tehran, Karaj, and Mashhad, or their registration as "Persian-speaking," lowers the official figures.
Our compatriots live not only in the historical Azerbaijani provinces (East and West Azerbaijan, Ardabil, Zanjan) but are also spread throughout the country:
South Azerbaijan region: Tabriz, Ardabil, Urmia, Zanjan.
Central regions: Qazvin, Hamadan, Alborz.
Capital Tehran: According to estimates, at least 1/3 of Tehran's population consists of Azerbaijanis.
Although the figures vary, everyone accepts one fact – in Iran, Azerbaijanis are the largest and most influential ethnic group after Persians. They are represented in every sector, from the economy to religion and the military.
For the future of Iran and stability in the region, the rights and national identity of this enormous mass — tens of millions of Azerbaijanis — will always remain a key factor.
Karim RUTULLU
