News in Iran
A year ago, the tragic death of Mahsa Amini marked the start of the anti-regime protest movement in Iran, known as the “Women, Life, Freedom” revolution. Since then, a significant change has appeared in the Iranian social landscape, with more and more women daring to go out on the streets without wearing the hijab, the obligatory veil in public. Thousands of photos and testimonies bear witness to this liberation movement.
However, this newly acquired freedom is threatened by a proposed law under discussion in the Iranian Parliament. This law plans to severely increase the penalties for offenses linked to non-compliant wearing of the hijab. Fines would increase from 1 euro to 3,000 euros and maximum prison sentences could be up to 10 years. Additionally, “celebrities,” including social media influencers, would be subject to special penalties, such as confiscation of 10% of their assets.
Despite these threats, many Iranian women continue to defy this intimidation and choose to no longer wear the hijab in public spaces. Among them, Sita, a young student from Tehran, explains her decision: she no longer wishes to obtain permission from the state to live according to her own choices. Since the death of Mahsa Amini, she no longer wears the hijab in public and faces a mostly benevolent reaction from Iranian society. Disapproving looks gave way to smiles and even encouragement.
However, these social changes are not just limited to the abolition of the hijab. They reflect a broader shift in Iranian society, where many religious and observant people are beginning to question state-imposed norms. This silent revolution is supported by men who fight for women’s rights, challenging a macho vision of society.
Social media influencers, considered “celebrities,” are particularly targeted by Iranian security forces. Despite this, they continue to resist and inspire many women across the country. Varia, an influencer from Shiraz, testifies to the fear that reigns, but also to the hope aroused by this resistance. She also points out that verbal harassment of women in the street has decreased and that private companies no longer dare to impose the hijab on their employees.
In conclusion, the situation in Iran continues to evolve, with a women’s liberation movement gaining strength despite threats from the regime. Iranian women are choosing to defy the laws and no longer wear the hijab, paving the way for deeper societal change. Their fight is supported by men who recognize that freedom of choice and life must be granted to all. This change is irreversible and reflects 40 years of resistance against oppressive ideologies.