Iran has introduced one of the harshest laws on religious dress. It targets women and girls who fail to follow mandatory hijab requirements. The legislation is known as the Law on Protecting the Family through the Promotion of the Culture of Chastity and Hijab. It introduces prison sentences of up to 15 years. The law also imposes exorbitant fines. Additionally, it includes death sentences under the charge of “corruption on earth.”
This sweeping law, which applies to girls as young as 12, has been condemned by independent UN human rights experts. It has been condemned as a fundamental attack on women’s rights and freedoms.
THE LAW AND ITS IMPLICATIONS
Expanded Restrictions
While Iran already mandated the hijab under its Islamic Penal Code, the new law significantly escalates the penalties:
- Prison Terms: Up to 15 years for violations.
- Death Penalty: Judges may impose this extreme punishment for cases classified as “corruption on earth.”
- Fines: Substantial monetary penalties, adding economic hardship to legal repercussions.
The law targets both physical spaces and online platforms, penalizing women and girls who share content deemed to promote unveiling.
Mandatory Citizen Surveillance
A striking feature of the legislation is its reliance on ordinary citizens for enforcement. Families, businesses, and individuals are now obligated to report instances of unveiling. The law also mandates extensive use of surveillance technologies to ensure compliance.
Experts warn this approach will foster a climate of fear and distrust in Iranian society, amplifying gender-based discrimination and violence.
IMPACT ON SOCIETY
State Control Over Women’s Bodies
The law embeds veiling and “culture of chastity” principles across educational curricula, public campaigns, and training programs. It effectively institutionalizes a state-controlled value system.
Violation of Fundamental Rights
UN experts highlight that the law breaches multiple human rights, including:
- Equality
- Freedom of expression
- Religious and bodily autonomy
- Security and privacy
Economic and Social Harm
The severe fines disproportionately impact vulnerable groups, including children, youth, and social media users, exacerbating inequality in Iranian society.
A BROADER SYSTEM OF GENDER-BASED PERSECUTION
Human rights experts describe the legislation as part of a comprehensive system of gender-based persecution. It systematically erodes women’s freedoms and embeds discrimination at every level of society.
This law builds upon existing restrictions and cements state-sanctioned control over personal choices. It extends its reach into homes, schools, and workplaces.
GLOBAL CONDEMNATION AND CALLS FOR ACTION
Independent UN human rights experts have urged Iran to repeal the law and remove all discriminatory legislation perpetuating gender-based persecution.
UN Statement
“The law forms a clear violation of women’s rights to equality, freedom of expression, bodily autonomy, and privacy,” they said.
The experts are engaging with the Iranian government to address the issue but emphasize that international pressure remains crucial in advocating for Iranian women’s rights.
The new hijab law represents a stark escalation in the Iranian government’s control over women’s lives. It not only criminalizes personal choice but also institutionalizes surveillance and discrimination.
Global advocacy and sustained attention are critical to supporting Iranian women and amplifying their fight for freedom and equality.
