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What types of informal work are found in Tehran?
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Tehran
Mosque with cupola in the bazaar, Tehran.
In Tehran, the informal economy serves as a vital survival mechanism for many residents, particularly as official unemployment figures often mask the prevalence of casual labor.1
Common types of informal work found in the city include:
- Street vending: Individuals selling various goods in public spaces to generate income.1
- Windshield cleaning: A form of casual labor performed at intersections and busy thoroughfares.1
- Other casual employment: Various unregulated service roles that operate outside of the formal public or private sectors.1
These informal activities are often pursued by those who face difficulties finding opportunities in the formal job market, such as the city's youth. In the absence of comprehensive social welfare provisions, these roles—alongside support from kinship networks—are essential for many Tehranis to sustain themselves.1