Iranian Women and Girls: Stripped of Their Rights Through Forced Veiling

Editorial: The Ongoing Struggle for Women’s Rights in Iran

A Persistent Battle Against Oppression

Armita Garawand’s tragic hospitalization after an encounter with enforcers of Iran‘s compulsory veiling laws is a harsh reminder of the intensified oppression faced by women and girls in Iran. The Iranian authorities’ continued assault on women’s rights, marked by the introduction of harsher penalties and the silencing of dissent, demonstrates a regressive and discriminatory approach.

The death of Mahsa/Zhina Amini, whose arrest for defying the compulsory veiling laws sparked a popular uprising in Iran, serves as a powerful symbol of the resilience and determination of Iranian women and girls in their quest for freedom and autonomy. Despite facing severe punishments and human rights violations, they continue to bravely challenge the oppressive regime.

The International Response

When Mahsa/Zhina Amini’s death occurred, solidarity poured in from around the world, particularly from European leaders who condemned the crackdown by Iranian authorities. This outpouring of support empowered Iranians to stand up against the regime’s atrocities.

However, the recent ‘Bill to Support the Culture of Chastity and Hijab‘ poses a significant challenge to the stated commitment of European leaders to support Iranian women and girls. This bill, if approved, will further perpetuate the oppressive methods of policing women, punish those who strive for their rights, and reinforce violence and discrimination against them. Approving this bill would lead to a violation of various fundamental rights and subject women and girls to additional violence and oppression.

EU’s Responsibility to Protect Women’s Rights

The European Union, while not perfect in its enforcement of women’s rights, should take a stronger stand against the Iranian authorities’ repressive actions. Member states, including France, which itself has faced criticism for policing what women can wear, must uphold the right to bodily autonomy, regardless of where violations occur.

In light of concerns expressed by UN experts that Iran‘s new bill could amount to “gender apartheid” and “systemic discrimination,” EU leaders have the urgent responsibility to call on Iranian authorities to revoke the bill before it becomes law and abolish all degrading and discriminatory compulsory veiling laws. Furthermore, they must demand the release of those convicted for defying compulsory veiling, drop charges against those facing prosecution, and ensure that human rights are a fundamental part of their engagement with Iran.

Accountability for Human Rights Violations

In addition to advocating for immediate action, EU member states should also pursue legal pathways at the international level to hold Iranian officials accountable for their involvement in widespread human rights violations against women and girls. This includes addressing the orders, planning, and actions that have resulted in the suppression of rights and freedoms.

It is unacceptable that not a single Iranian official has been held accountable for the implementation of compulsory veiling and the subsequent violations of human rights. The pursuit of justice is crucial to ensure a better future for Iranian women and girls, and to send a clear message to the international community that such violations will not go unchecked.

Conclusion

The struggle for women’s rights in Iran is an ongoing battle against oppression and discrimination. Iranian women and girls continue to defy the hateful laws imposed on them, displaying immense bravery and resilience. It is now the responsibility of European leaders, in their pursuit of gender equality, to stand firmly against the Iranian authorities’ oppressive actions. Only through collective international pressure, accountability, and support can meaningful changes be achieved, ultimately granting Iranian women and girls the freedom and autonomy they deserve.

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