A post on r/worldnews that gathered over 1,000 upvotes highlights the findings of a new survey indicating that nine in ten Iranian Canadians support regime change in Iran.
The survey, conducted by the Metropolis Institute on behalf of the Advancement of Human Rights Organization for the Middle East (AHROME), involved 1,166 completed responses from a total of 1,768 distributed surveys between March 29 and April 13. Most of the surveys were collected at large Iranian community gatherings in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
Kevin Rod, president of AHROME, expressed that the results were expected, stating, "Knowing our diaspora community, I was not surprised by any of the responses." The survey revealed a staggering 92.3% of respondents held a very unfavorable opinion of the current Iranian government, with 98.4% agreeing that the regime does not represent the will of the Iranian people.
Why it matters
The survey reflects a strong sentiment among the Iranian Canadian community for political change in Iran, emphasizing their connection to the struggle for democracy in their homeland.
With approximately 200,000 Iranian Canadians in Canada, their opinions could influence Canadian foreign policy toward Iran.
The overwhelming support for regime change aligns with broader global sentiments observed in recent protests against the Iranian government.
Driving the news
Recent protests in Iran have resulted in over 500 reported deaths and more than 10,000 arrests since late December 2025, underscoring the urgent calls for regime change.
The survey indicates high levels of support for military action against the Iranian government, with 90.2% of respondents approving of international military actions aimed at political change.
Rod called on the Canadian government to heed the voices of Iranian Canadians in their response to the conflict, advocating for a proactive approach to support human rights in Iran.
State of play
Support for the former Shah's son, Reza Pahlavi, remains high, with 98.6% of respondents familiar with him and 89% holding a favorable opinion.
About 90.2% of respondents believe Pahlavi should play a political role in Iran’s future, highlighting his potential as a unifying figure for opposition.
Respondents expressed deep concern for family members still in Iran, with 93.6% worried about their wellbeing.
The big picture
The Iranian Canadian community is largely composed of individuals who fled after the 1979 Iranian Revolution, seeking refuge from the theocratic regime established under Ayatollah Khomeini.
Current geopolitical tensions, including military actions in the region, have heightened the urgency for the Iranian diaspora to advocate for change.
The sentiment for regime change is echoed in various surveys conducted within Iran, where a majority of citizens express dissatisfaction with the theocratic government.
What they’re saying
Rod stated, "This leader is Prince Reza Pahlavi, this is the only name called by the people of Iran and his name was written by their blood on the walls of their cities," emphasizing the community's desire for a clear leadership figure.
Many respondents see the current military actions against Iran as a historic liberating campaign against a regime responsible for numerous human rights violations.
Rod urged the Canadian government to avoid legitimizing the Iranian regime through diplomatic engagements that would alienate Iranian Canadians.
By the numbers
92.3% of respondents have a very unfavorable opinion of the Iranian government.
98.4% believe the regime does not represent the will of the Iranian people.
95.9% desire at least normal diplomatic relations with Israel in the future.
Between the lines
The survey results indicate a strong alignment with the sentiments expressed during the “woman life freedom” protests, which highlighted calls for democracy and secular governance.
The Iranian Canadian community’s views are reflective of broader trends seen in public opinion within Iran, where secular democracy is increasingly desired.
Concerns for family members back home highlight the emotional stakes involved in the political discourse surrounding regime change.
What’s next
The Canadian government may face pressure to adjust its foreign policy stance based on the expressed desires of the Iranian Canadian community.
Continued military actions and protests in Iran will likely keep the issue of regime change in the spotlight both domestically and internationally.
The community’s support for Reza Pahlavi as a political figure may lead to increased advocacy efforts to promote his vision for Iran’s future.
This article is based on a discussion trending on Reddit. The claims and opinions expressed in the original post and comments do not necessarily represent verified reporting.