A UN report reveals serious ongoing human rights violations in Iran, especially post-Mahsa Amini’s death. The enforcement of hijab laws via surveillance, potential new legislation, and repression of protests are critical issues raised by the fact-finding mission led by Sara Hossain.
The United Nations has reported on Iran’s serious human rights violations, particularly following the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. The UN’s fact-finding mission, led by Sara Hossain, emphasizes that these abuses persist throughout the Islamic Republic, particularly regarding the enforcement of hijab mandates and treatment of women.
Sara Hossain described how a specific application enables surveillance of women not complying with hijab requirements, stating, “We’ve seen evidence of surveillance being done through this particular app where people can … report in if they see women … who don’t have the mandatory hijab.” She mentioned the ensuing consequences, ranging from warnings to the impoundment of vehicles.
The use of technology in enforcing hijab laws is notably unusual, according to Hossain. She remarked, “…this seems to be very unusual in the way that women’s clothing and particularly their compliance with this rule about mandatory hijab is being applied.” Despite assurances from Iran’s new president for less stringent enforcement, Hossain raised concerns regarding a potential new hijab and chastity law.
The report addresses the influential role of the Revolutionary Guards and their designated “ambassadors of kindness” in enforcing compliance. Continuous arrests of women failing to adhere to hijab regulations were noted, alongside severe repression of protests that occurred in 2022 and continued into 2023. Hossain highlighted, “Our investigation has taken place over two years … severe repression of the protests back in 2022 and 23. This year what we’ve all been seeing is an attempt to kind of silence protesters.”
The UN highlights ongoing significant human rights violations in Iran, especially concerning women and the enforcement of hijab mandates. Despite presidential promises for less enforcement, there are concerns over potential new laws and increased surveillance practices. The repression of protests reveals a broader pattern of state control and violation of freedoms in Iran, as articulated by Sara Hossain’s findings.
Original Source: news4sanantonio.com
