Iranian women continue to face danger in their own country, almost two years after the tragic death of Masha Amini. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has reported that controls on women without veils have become stricter in Iran. Reports have indicated widespread arrests and harassment of women and girls, particularly those aged 15 to 17.
The enforcement of the country’s strict hijab laws has been carried out through violent repression by Iranian police, both in uniform and plain clothes. In April, Iranian police announced increased measures to enforce compulsory veil-wearing for women in public spaces, due to a growing lack of compliance with the law since the Islamic Revolution in 1979.
Recently, there have been instances of businesses being forcibly closed for not enforcing veil laws, as well as the use of surveillance cameras to identify violators. The death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who was arrested for violating the dress code, sparked a protest movement that has seen more and more women choosing to appear without veils. In response, the head of the Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the creation of a new body to enforce headscarf laws in Iran.
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights is concerned about a bill proposing harsher penalties for violations of the hijab laws, which is pending approval by the Guardian Council. Additionally, they have called for the cancellation of the death sentence of rapper Toomaj Salehi, who supported the 2022 protest movement, and urged for his immediate release. The situation for Iranian women remains precarious, and international attention and action are needed to protect their rights and safety.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend among young Iranian women to challenge traditional norms and expectations surrounding hijab. Many are choosing not to wear it altogether or wearing it only when they feel like it. This trend has led to increased scrutiny from authorities who see it as a threat to their power.
Despite this resistance from young women, many Iranians continue to support traditional values surrounding hijab as part of their religious beliefs. However, this support does not justify violent repression or punitive measures against those who choose not to follow these traditions.
It is important that international leaders take notice of this situation and speak out against human rights abuses in Iran. Governments must put pressure on Tehran to respect its citizens’ rights and ensure that all individuals are free from discrimination based on their gender or religious beliefs.
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