Iran Heritage Unit: Safeguarding, Risk, and Accountability
GEOGRAPHIC SCOPE
Iran (Heritage Sites) | International (Project Leadership and Coordination)
STATUS
Ongoing Investigation | Findings Published
RESEARCH AREAS
Heritage Governance | Civilian Protection | Risk Assessment | Information Security
PROJECT LEAD
Romina Frohar
PUBLISHED RESEARCH
Romina Frohar and Dr Samuel Hardy
Investigation Overview
The Forensic Archive of Iran is investigating the Iran Heritage Unit (Yegan-e Miras-e Iran), an initiative associated with Reza Pahlavi's Immortal Guard network that proposes mobilising civilians to protect Iranian heritage sites during political instability and transition.
The investigation examines the initiative's publicly accessible database of heritage sites, its volunteer participation model, and the safeguards intended to protect vulnerable sites and participating communities.
Particular attention is given to the disclosure of sensitive heritage information, risks of illicit excavation and trafficking, volunteer safety, and the transparency and accountability of the initiative's internationally based organisers.
Research Objectives
Assess the security risks associated with publicly accessible heritage vulnerability information.
Examine volunteer recruitment, training, coordination, and safety measures.
Evaluate transparency, oversight, and institutional accountability.
Identify safeguards for responsible civilian participation in heritage protection.
Research Methodology
The investigation combines open-source research, analysis of the initiative's public materials, heritage risk assessment, and comparison with established safeguarding practices.
Findings distinguish identified risks and deficiencies in publicly available information from verified incidents of harm.
Research Activity and Publications
Who Gets to Guard Iran's Heritage? — Published 8 October 2026
An investigative article by Romina Frohar and Dr Samuel Hardy examining the initiative's proposed protection framework, public heritage database, volunteer mobilisation, and associated safeguarding concerns.
Further Investigation — Ongoing
FAI continues to examine developments in the initiative's governance, protection measures, and implications for heritage security and civilian safety.
Research Significance
The investigation contributes to wider discussions on civilian-led heritage protection, information security, and institutional responsibility during political transitions. Its findings aim to inform safer and more accountable approaches to protecting vulnerable heritage sites and their communities.