The Institute for Social Sciences and Humanities (ISSH), also known as Iran Academia, founded in 2012, is an alternative university that aims to provide accessible and uncensored knowledge in social sciences and humanities. Established in response to violations of the right to education, academic freedom, and university autonomy in Iran, this Netherlands-based institution seeks to overcome censorship and other barriers to impart impartial, high-quality education to Iran’s youth.

As an alternative university, Iran Academia connects its faculty and staff across an extensive global network, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment that encourages critical thinking and intellectual exchange. The institution offers a variety of educational programs and courses through four distinct platforms: Academia (graduate school), AcademiX (Massive Open Online Courses), Agora (educational multimedia platform), and Publications (publishing house for academic journals and books). These platforms cater to the general public, private organizations, and individuals such as journalists, trainers, and activists.

Iran Academia’s alternative approach to education enables the institution to provide valuable learning opportunities for those deprived of impartial education, empowering future generations with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute positively to society.