Iran | United Nations Development Programme

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Human development progress slows to a 35-year low according to UNDP report

Human development progress is experiencing an unprecedented slowdown according to the United Nations Development Programme’s (UNDP) latest Human Development Report (HDR) 2025. The report shows how Artificial Intelligence (AI) could reignite development.

Honoring Sa'adi Day and Mother Earth Day

In honor of Sa’adi Day (21 April) and Mother Earth Day (22 April), we turn to Persian poetry: a timeless reminder of our bond with nature.

Dr. Zohreh’s Journey in Reaching the Unreached

On World Health Day, we celebrate the dedication of those working quietly yet powerfully to make health services more inclusive and accessible.

Women weaving on looms in a colorful room, with carpets and decorative elements.

Weaving Opportunities for Women and the Environment

Naqadeh County in West Azerbaijan is home to Dargah Sangi, an internationally recognized wetland. In the heart of Naqadeh, Zahra stands out as a beacon of hope for the women in her community.

A hand guiding floral fabric under a sewing machine needle on a work table.

Stitching Dreams: Roghayeh's Tale of Revival in Yulqonlu

Once a village vibrant with greenery and bustling farms, Yulqonlu in East Azerbaijan had perished to the harsh realities of drought and economic hardship.

UNDP's Clean Energy Efforts in Iran

Iran has significant potential for renewable energy, with 60,000 MW of solar capacity and 30,000 MW of wind potential. National targets aim to install 30,000 MW of renewable energy by 2030 and reduce power consumption by 10,000 MW. However, challenges such as energy intensity remain.

UNDP Welcomes New Contribution from Japan to Strengthen Wetland Management and Climate Resilience in Iran

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Islamic Republic of Iran is pleased to announce a generous contribution of JPY 690,000,000 from the Government of Japanto enhance wetland management and strengthen climate resilience in Lake Urmia, Shadegan, Parishan and Anzali wetlands.

UNDP’s dedication to health; taking steps forward

Since 2005, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has been supporting Iran’s efforts in HIV prevention through the Global Fund. The Welfare Organization has been an invaluable partner throughout all these years in reaching target populations in need of HIV-related services.

UNDP Iran Celebrates the 2024 Equator Prize Winner

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Iran hosted an event to celebrate the Iranian recipient of the 2024 Equator Prize.

فرهنگ اصطلاحات اقلیمی: نسخه طبیعت

A Tale of Iranian Rural Women’s Skilled Hands

Maryam Shaverdi, 40, is an inspiring woman from Shadegan County in Khuzestan Province. She began her journey 14 years ago, becoming the first woman in her community to cultivate mushrooms and raise quail.

What we do

Today's development challenges are complex, and each context is different. At UNDP in Iran, we tailor our work to fit the country's needs and the communities we serve.

Our Impact

89.5

million

Population

85%

Literacy Rate

in Adults

77.5

famale

Life expectancy at birth

10.96%

Unemployment rate

0.7%

Population growth rate

0.780

Human Dev. Index (2023/2024)

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