Blondinrikard Fröberg, CC BY 2.0
Event Concept
We are planning a special event in London on 29 October 2026 centred on Cyrus the Great, Iranian civilisation, the values associated with his legacy, and the future of Iran.
The intention is not simply to hold a historical commemoration. The event will use the legacy of Cyrus the Great as the starting point for a serious and forward-looking conversation about Iran — its identity, values, current challenges and future.
The evening will bring together approximately 300 carefully selected guests, including respected speakers, academics, public figures, professionals and members of the Iranian diaspora, alongside friends of Iran.
Proposed Mission
To connect Iran's extraordinary historical and cultural heritage with a constructive conversation about its present and future.
The event will explore how principles associated with the legacy of Cyrus — including human dignity, tolerance, justice, respect for diversity and peaceful coexistence — can contribute to discussions about national unity, democratic rights, stability and a prosperous future for Iran.
Proposed Subject Areas
1. Cyrus the Great & History
Potential discussions include Cyrus as a leader and statesman; his life and legacy; the Cyrus Cylinder; Cyrus in historical sources; his influence beyond Iran; and the relevance of his legacy in the modern world.
2. Values & Human Dignity
Human dignity, religious tolerance, cultural diversity, human rights and freedoms, justice, and peaceful coexistence between peoples and civilisations.
3. Iran Today
The challenges facing contemporary Iran, including leadership, national unity, democratic rights, political change and Iran's position in an increasingly changing region and world.
4. The Future of Iran
A major part of the event will look forward. Possible subjects include democratic transition, constitutional arrangements, leadership following political change, prevention of a power vacuum, stability and national security, future political institutions, economic and social reconstruction, and Iran's future relationship with the international community.
5. The Iranian Diaspora
The role and responsibility of Iranians living outside Iran; preserving Iranian identity; political and civic engagement; mobilising academic, professional and business expertise; and how the diaspora can contribute constructively to Iran's future.
Proposed Event Format
The event would be built around substance, dialogue and meaningful conversation.
The evening would be presented by two co-hosts, one woman and one man, who would welcome the guests, introduce the speakers and panellists, and guide the audience through the different parts of the event.
Opening & Introduction
A concise introduction to Cyrus the Great Day, the purpose of the gathering and the central themes of the evening.
Individual Speakers
A carefully selected group of speakers would deliver focused presentations covering different aspects of the proposed subject areas. Each contribution would have a clear subject and purpose.
Short Video Clips
Selected short video clips would be used between sections where appropriate to provide historical context, introduce a subject or create a transition.
Main Panel Discussion
A central part of the event would be a substantive discussion involving approximately 4–5 panellists. The intention is to create a genuine conversation and debate between people with different expertise and perspectives.
We would like to retain both of the following themes:
“From a great civilization to a greater future: What should the future Iran look like?”
“From Cyrus to the future: leadership, unity and the road ahead for Iran.”
These themes can complement one another, with one serving as the broader theme of the event and the other providing the focus for the main panel discussion.
The discussion may also include questions from the audience.
Closing
The two co-hosts would bring together the principal ideas and discussions from the evening and conclude with a forward-looking message about Iran and its future.
Register your interest
This is an invitation-based evening with no ticket sales. Leave your details and we'll be in touch with full event information as it's confirmed.
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