Iran at the dawn of a women’s revolution : Women at the heart of the fight for freedom
The spark of change : the “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement
In September 2022, Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman, died in custody after being arrested by the morality police for allegedly wearing her hijab “improperly.” Her death sparked nationwide protests, uniting men and women across generations. The slogan “Woman, Life, Freedom” (“Zan, Zendegi, Azadi” in Persian) became the rallying cry for a movement that demanded not only an end to the mandatory hijab but also sweeping social reforms.
Despite a brutal government crackdown, this movement captured global attention and showcased the resilience of Iranian women. Acts of defiance, such as students removing their hijabs in public or female workers joining general strikes, have become powerful symbols of this mobilization.
Fighting for a place in the workforce
In a country where women’s participation in the labor market barely exceeds 20%, Iranian women are also demanding their share of the economy. Despite legal and social barriers, more women are entering traditionally male-dominated professions, particularly in technology, medicine, and engineering.
For example, women-led enterprises, such as those pioneered by Roya Mahboob, a renowned tech entrepreneur, are opening up new opportunities for young women. Mahboob has received international acclaim for her efforts to empower women through digital education, a critical tool in a country where access to information is often restricted.
A cultural revolution in the making
The cultural arena has also become a battleground for resistance and self-expression among Iranian women. In cinema, directors like Marjane Satrapi (Persepolis) and Rakhshan Banietemad have long used their work to critique social inequalities and highlight the struggles of women. Recently, female filmmakers have turned their lenses toward the voices of protesters, despite the significant risks involved.
In literature, authors such as Shahrnush Parsipur and Zoya Pirzad continue to inspire younger generations. Through their works, they amplify women’s voices in a literary landscape that is often subject to censorship.
Legal transformation : slow but steady
Despite the momentum, Iran’s legal framework remains a significant obstacle. Women face discrimination in areas such as inheritance, child custody, and criminal law. However, incremental progress has been achieved through relentless pressure. For instance, a law passed in 2021 aimed to protect women from domestic violence, though its implementation remains limited.
Female lawyers, like Nasrin Sotoudeh, persist in advocating for reform, often at great personal cost. Their courage represents a glimmer of hope for future legislative changes.
Global impact : A movement of solidarity
The fight of Iranian women has resonated globally. Several countries have imposed targeted sanctions on those responsible for the crackdowns, while international organizations like Amnesty International continue to hold the Iranian government accountable. Meanwhile, Iranian diasporas around the world amplify the voices of women on the ground, organizing campaigns to sustain international attention.
Toward a lasting revolution?
The movement for women’s emancipation in Iran is far from a fleeting phenomenon, it is a deep-rooted revolution challenging the very foundations of society. Despite ongoing repression, each act of defiance (whether it’s removing a hijab, delivering a bold speech, or launching an entrepreneurial initiative) brings the country closer to a more egalitarian future.
Iranian women are showing the world that the fight for fundamental rights is universal, transcending borders and cultures. While their struggle is deeply tied to local realities, it carries a message of hope and inspiration for all who envision a more just world.
Sources :
https://www.ohchr.org/fr/stories/2024/03/woman-life-freedom-survivors-want-end-state-impunity-iran
https://www.wallpaper.com/design/roya-mahboob-empowering-afgan-women-through-design-education
