Iranian youth mull election boycott

As Iran gears up for a new round of parliamentary elections, the country's youth are considering whether or not to participate.

In a country where two thirds of the population are under 30, the voice of the young could be more crucial than ever.

But many young people say they will stay away from the ballot boxes on Friday.

(SOUNDBITE)(Farsi) UNNAMED 21 YEAR-OLD STUDENT, SAYING:

"I have decided not to participate in this round. I mean, I have no interest to take part in these elections. I voted once and those were the elections in 88 (2009) and I voted. However this time I have no interest in participating in the elections."

Others though were against a boycott.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) 27 YEAR OLD MARKETING MANAGER ALI:

"Definitely yes, because I care about my country's future and I think every vote actually means something."

The elections are the first vote since the country's disputed presidential election in 2009 which led to eight months of bloody street protests.

The country's youth could be the decisive factor in Friday's polls, but disillusionment over the outcome of that vote three years ago may keep many away from the ballot boxes.

Simon Hanna, Reuters.