Basij Day
November 26, Wednesday
The holiday is dedicated to the creation of the Basij — a voluntary paramilitary organization that is part of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
History
* The Basij (Basij, or Basij-e Mostazaʾfin) was established by the order of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini on November 26, 1979.
* In January 1981, the Majlis (parliament) officially included the Basij in the structure of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
* In the first years after its creation, the organization attracted many volunteers — both men and women, roughly between the ages of 18 and 45.
Role in the Iran-Iraq War
* During the war between Iran and Iraq (1980–1988), the Basij grew significantly: volunteers of very young and older ages joined.
* One of the tactics employed by the Basij was the so-called "human waves": large numbers of volunteers attacked in formation despite heavy losses.
Role in modern Iran
* Today, the Basij remains an important organization: its members help ensure internal security, support law enforcement, and participate in religious ceremonies.
* The organization also promotes ideological participation of youth and influences public life.
* The Basij includes different categories: ordinary members, active members, and "special" members, some of whom are officially linked to the IRGC.
* In modern Iran, the Basij is also engaged in cyber activities — it has technological and information units.
Symbolism of the holiday
Basij Day symbolizes:
* recognition of the volunteers' contribution to building and defending the Islamic Republic
* ideological and patriotic cohesion
* the role of the Basij as a "people's militia" ready to serve the state
* remembrance of those who participated in the war and other historical events
How it is celebrated
* Official events are held within the IRGC and Basij structures
* Meetings, conferences, and ceremonies emphasize the ideological role of the Basij
* Media cover the history of the organization and its current tasks
* Youth and Basij members participate in public and volunteer activities
Criticism and controversies
* Some human rights activists criticize the Basij for its role in suppressing dissent and controlling civil society.
* In the EU, it is noted that the Basij recruits young people (including minors) through ideological training.
* On the other hand, officials claim that the Basij is an important part of national security and an expression of popular mobilization.
Significance for Iran
For Iran, this day is not just a commemorative date but a symbol of the resilience of revolutionary ideology, the importance of voluntary fellowship, and the role of ordinary citizens in defending their country. Basij Day emphasizes that the organization is perceived as a key element of the state and social structure.
Basij Day in other years
- 2021 November 26, Friday
- 2022 November 26, Saturday
- 2023 November 26, Sunday
- 2024 November 26, Tuesday
- 2026 November 26, Thursday