Mir-Hossein Mousavi can certainly be regarded as a “modern leader” for today’s opposition movement in Iran.  Few people expected such a modern and wise behavior from Mousavi in response to the recent harsh events.

He has clearly understood and embraced the diversity of the green movement.  Mousavi emphasizes in his statement number 11: “Our people have now realized, with every inch of their being, that the only way for the peaceful coexistence of tastes and attitudes, social layers, tribes, religions and beliefs that live in this great land, is to acknowledge this vast diversity in lifestyles and to gather around an ancient identity which links all of us.”

Mousavi’s main strategy is to focus on a concept called “social networks.”  He declares in this statement: “Today, what plays the strongest role in our society is a capable and self-evolving social network that has stretched among a large group of people who are objecting to the violation of their rights. In our future decisions and solutions we must pay attention to this network’s unique features. As a response to questions like what do we do, what I suggest is the consolidation and enforcement of this social network.

Mousavi pays special attention to a concept and topic¾that has been laid out by contemporary philosopher Jurgen Habermas¾known as the “public sphere.”  For example, he says, “Today, an online network has emerged in cyberspace that is, in the absence of other outlets, very effective.  Social nuclei that are active surrounding this online space are less vulnerable and its members have given the movement an evolving essence that has made us more hopeful of its efficacy.”  Statements such as this are numerous in Mousavi’s declarations and remarks.  

Like a modern, and of course successful and trustworthy leader, Mir-Hossein Mousavi has “accompanied” the Iranian people’s opposition green movement.  He has not wanted to be the green movement’s “head” or “brain,” or its “first and last spokesperson.”  Similarly, he has not approved every act committed by opposition protesters.

Mousavi warns that he is not a “know it all,” but is only sharing in a common movement as a “companion and fellow traveler,” on the “green road.”  Mousavi is now worthy of praise and attention as a “social capital,” one like Seyyed Mohammad Khatami and Mehdi Karoubi.  

Undoubtedly, Iran’s contemporary political history will place the name of Mir-Hossein Mousavi next to other principled, free and freedom-seeking leaders, such as the late Dr. Mohammad Mossadegh; a man who provided a worthy and respected portrait of a “modern leader” seeking to restore the rights of the people of Iran.