On December 1st, the Iranian regime officially unveiled its so-called “Hijab and Chastity” law—a draconian set of regulations that marks a new chapter in the oppression of women and girls in Iran. The law, consisting of 74 articles and five chapters, was finalized after a year and a half of deliberations between the judiciary, parliament, and the Guardian Council. Originally drafted following the uprisings of 2022, this law blatantly violates international human rights conventions, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
An attack on fundamental freedoms
The law mandates an extensive network of governmental and non-governmental organizations—including the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance, national broadcaster IRIB, the Ministry of Health, municipalities, and the Ministry of Science—to actively enforce dress code regulations. Chapter Three, in particular, compels various institutions to suppress what the regime deems “improper hijab,” going beyond the notorious “morality police” and creating a pervasive atmosphere of surveillance and control.
For example, under Article 16, municipalities across the country, in collaboration with local councils and organizations such as the Islamic Propaganda Organization and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, are required to ensure adherence to hijab regulations in public spaces such as parks, cultural centers, historical sites, and public transportation. They are also tasked with facilitating the presence of individuals who promote chastity and moral policing.
Severe punishments for non-compliance
The law also introduces harsh penalties for individuals and businesses that fail to comply with or enforce these regulations. Employees of governmental institutions, as well as private business owners, face severe repercussions for refusing to report violations or assist in the enforcement of the law. Penalties include dismissal from government service for up to six years, significant fines equaling two to six months’ worth of business profits, and additional financial penalties for individuals.
A mechanism for suppression
Beyond enforcing dress codes, the law assigns Iran’s intelligence apparatus—including the Ministry of Intelligence, the IRGC Intelligence Organization, and the police intelligence unit—the task of cracking down on dissent and preventing the spread of anti-regime sentiment. This makes clear that the law’s true intent is not to uphold cultural values but to suppress women’s rights and stifle any potential opposition.
This latest measure is a desperate attempt by the Iranian regime to silence women, who have been at the forefront of the recent uprising since 2022.
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