Iran's Tech-Driven Campaign Against Women's Dress Code

In a recent report, the UN has revealed that Iran employs advanced technology, including drones and mobile apps, to monitor and enforce the mandatory hijab, reflecting a broader strategy of "state-sponsored vigilantism." The findings underscore systemic discrimination faced by women in Iran, along with the harsh repercussions for non-compliance.

Iran is intensifying its enforcement of strict dress codes for women through the deployment of drones and advanced digital technology, according to an alarming report from the United Nations. Investigators have noted a systematic use of "state-sponsored vigilantism" in Iran, where authorities are encouraging citizens to report on women who do not adhere to the compulsory hijab laws via specialized mobile applications. This initiative includes the use of surveillance drones and security cameras across major cities, particularly Tehran and southern regions, to monitor compliance with the hijab.

The consequences for women who resist these laws are severe, often resulting in arrest, violence, and sexual assault while in custody. The situation has been exacerbated by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in 2022, which sparked widespread protests against the Iranian regime. The unrest has continued despite harsh state responses, making clear the persistent struggle for women’s rights in Iran.

The recent report from the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic reveals that women and girls in Iran deal with rampant discrimination under a regime that significantly undermines their rights. Notably, the state’s more aggressive tactics include the installation of facial recognition software at public facilities and the creation of the "Nazer" mobile app, which allows citizens to alert the police about suspected violations of hijab regulations in public transport and private vehicles.

Reports suggest that when a violation is reported, the vehicle is flagged online, and a warning is sent to its registered owner. Continued infractions can result in the impoundment of vehicles, showcasing the intense scrutiny under which women operate. The UN report is based on interviews with nearly 300 victims and witnesses, alongside an analysis of Iran's judiciary’s failings in providing justice for those subjected to torture and abuse. The findings will be presented to the Human Rights Council on March 18, shedding light on the dire human rights situation in Iran.