This research article examines legal discrimination against children born out of wedlock in Iran. Despite laws promoting equality, societal attitudes influenced by beliefs continue to result in discrimination. The study explores the reconciliation of religious beliefs with legal frameworks and the changes made to the Iranian legal system in response to positive human rights developments. The Article seeks to bridge the research gaps by comparing the experiences of Iranian children with those in other countries affected by Islamic law. The study employs library sources and descriptive and historical research methods to examine the legal status of children born outside of marriage, both nationally and internationally, and the discrimination they face. The Article is structured into four distinct sections: an analysis of Islamic Law, a review of the Iranian legal system, an assessment of Iran's compliance with international conventions, and a discourse on the necessity of substantial positive change. The Article ultimately recommends the eradication of discrimination through heightened awareness and the advancement of inclusivity for all children, irrespective of their lineage. In summary, this research Article aims to shed light on legal challenges faced by children born outside of marriage in Iran, with the goal of promoting positive changes in their treatment.
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Mirshkari,A. and Zargari,J. (2025). The Legal Status of Illegitimate Children in Iran: Historical and Contemporary Insights. Journal of Research and Development in Comparative Law, 7(25), 192-220. doi: 10.22034/law.2024.2037994.1440
MLA
Mirshkari,A. , and Zargari,J. . "The Legal Status of Illegitimate Children in Iran: Historical and Contemporary Insights", Journal of Research and Development in Comparative Law, 7, 25, 2025, 192-220. doi: 10.22034/law.2024.2037994.1440
HARVARD
Mirshkari A., Zargari J. (2025). 'The Legal Status of Illegitimate Children in Iran: Historical and Contemporary Insights', Journal of Research and Development in Comparative Law, 7(25), pp. 192-220. doi: 10.22034/law.2024.2037994.1440
CHICAGO
A. Mirshkari and J. Zargari, "The Legal Status of Illegitimate Children in Iran: Historical and Contemporary Insights," Journal of Research and Development in Comparative Law, 7 25 (2025): 192-220, doi: 10.22034/law.2024.2037994.1440
VANCOUVER
Mirshkari A., Zargari J. The Legal Status of Illegitimate Children in Iran: Historical and Contemporary Insights. Comparative Law, 2025; 7(25): 192-220. doi: 10.22034/law.2024.2037994.1440