Iran's Fight For Women's Rights: A Century Of Struggle & Resilience

Ms. Freeda Dicki III 23 Jun 2025

The global spotlight often turns to the complex and challenging landscape of women's rights in Iran, a nation where the struggle for fundamental freedoms is both deeply historical and acutely current. In December 2022, the world witnessed a significant moment of international condemnation when Iran was expelled from membership of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. This unprecedented move came in the wake of the tragic death of Mahsa Amini while in state custody and the subsequent violent crackdown by authorities against widespread women's rights protests across the country.

This expulsion underscored the international community's growing concern over the Iranian government's intensified efforts to suppress the fundamental rights of women and girls, systematically crushing any remaining initiatives of women's activism. The narrative of women's rights in Iran is one of profound shifts, from periods of significant progress to severe reversals, marked by the unwavering determination of Iranian women who continue to advocate for equality and basic human dignity against formidable odds.

A Century of Struggle: The Evolving Landscape of Women's Rights in Iran
- Early Progress: Seeds of Equality (1910s-1970s)
- The 1979 Revolution: A Drastic Reversal
The Current State: Systemic Discrimination and Draconian Laws
The "Women, Life, Freedom" Movement and Its Aftermath
Voices of Resistance: Iranian Women on the Frontlines
International Scrutiny and Calls for Accountability
Defiance in the Face of Oppression: Individual Acts of Courage
The Path Forward: Hope for a More Equitable Future
- The Unyielding Spirit of Iranian Women
- Global Solidarity and Sustained Advocacy

A Century of Struggle: The Evolving Landscape of Women's Rights in Iran

The state of women's rights in Iran has fluctuated dramatically throughout the past century, painting a complex picture of societal and political transformation. From the early to late 20th century, there was a discernible and steady progress towards gender equality, reflecting a period of modernization and increasing openness within Iranian society. This era saw significant strides that empowered women and laid the groundwork for greater participation in public life.

Early Progress: Seeds of Equality (1910s-1970s)

The Iranian women's rights movement, known in Persian as جنبش زنان ایران, first emerged following the Iranian Constitutional Revolution in 1910. This pivotal year also marked the publication of the first women's periodical by women themselves, signaling a burgeoning awareness and demand for greater social and political inclusion. In the 1920s, women's rights in Iran began to make significant progress towards gender equality, with reforms that expanded opportunities and challenged traditional norms. Education, in particular, became more accessible to girls when it was made free for both girls and boys, a crucial step in empowering future generations. Furthermore, a landmark achievement was the enrollment of women in Iran’s first university, breaking down barriers to higher education and opening doors to professional careers previously dominated by men. This period, leading up to the late 1970s, was characterized by a gradual but consistent expansion of women's roles and rights within society, fostering a sense of growing empowerment and a more equitable social fabric.

The 1979 Revolution: A Drastic Reversal

However, the trajectory of women's rights in Iran took a drastic and devastating step back in 1979, during the Iranian Revolution. The Islamic Republic of Iran, established in the revolution's aftermath, was fundamentally built upon principles of patriarchal misogyny, which quickly translated into a systemic rollback of the rights women had gained over decades. One of the first acts of the new regime was to dismantle many of the progressive laws and social norms that had fostered gender equality. The new constitution, a cornerstone of the Islamic Republic, included a number of disturbing provisions that severely curtailed women's autonomy and status. In practice, and in law, the women of Iran effectively became, as described in some analyses, "the slaves of men," their rights diminished to the point where women and children were largely considered the property of men with severely limited independent rights. This seismic shift not only reversed previous gains but also established a legal framework that institutionalized discrimination, profoundly impacting every aspect of women's lives, particularly with regard to marriage, divorce, and custody issues. The stark contrast between the pre-1979 era of progress and the post-revolutionary regression highlights the fragility of rights when not deeply entrenched and protected by societal and political will.

The Current State: Systemic Discrimination and Draconian Laws

Today, the reality of women's rights in Iran is one of pervasive systemic discrimination, deeply embedded in both law and practice. Iranian women experience daily challenges that profoundly impact their lives, particularly in fundamental areas such as marriage, divorce, and child custody, where their rights are significantly curtailed compared to men. The Iranian government has not only maintained but intensified its efforts to suppress the fundamental rights of women and girls, actively working to crush any remaining initiatives of women's activism. This ongoing suppression is a grave concern for international human rights organizations, including the UN Human Rights body, which has consistently highlighted the deteriorating situation.

A particularly alarming development in the ongoing suppression of women's rights in Iran is the adoption of new, draconian legislation. On December 14, 2024, state media reported that the promulgation of a new law had been temporarily paused. However, the very existence and near-approval of this bill reveal the authorities' intent. This proposed law further erases the human rights of women and girls, imposing severe penalties to crush ongoing resistance to compulsory veiling and other restrictive measures. If approved by Iran's Guardian Council, this bill, which is at its last procedural stage before final approval, would codify the Iranian authorities’ oppressive methods of policing women and girls, imposing a vast array of penalties that severely violate their rights. These penalties include the death penalty, flogging, lengthy prison terms, and other severe punishments, designed to quash the women's rights movement in Iran and deter any form of defiance. Amnesty International has explicitly stated that Iranian authorities have escalated their crackdown on women's rights defenders, journalists, singers, and other activists who demand equality or defy compulsory veiling, using arbitrary detention, unjust prosecution, flogging, and even the death penalty in a bid to silence dissent and dismantle the movement.

The "Women, Life, Freedom" Movement and Its Aftermath

The death in custody of Jina Mahsa Amini in September 2022 served as a tragic catalyst, igniting the powerful "Woman, Life, Freedom" (زن، زندگی، آزادی) movement that swept across Iran and garnered international attention. Mahsa Amini's death, following her arrest by the morality police for allegedly violating compulsory veiling laws, sparked widespread outrage and peaceful protests demanding fundamental changes to women's rights in Iran. The government's response, however, was a violent crackdown on these peaceful demonstrations, resulting in numerous deaths, injuries, and arrests. This brutal suppression further intensified the global condemnation of Iran's human rights record.

In direct response to this violent crackdown and the ensuing protests, the Fact-Finding Mission on Iran (FFMI) was established. This mission was tasked with investigating the alleged human rights violations committed by the Iranian authorities in connection with the protests that followed Mahsa Amini's death. The FFMI's establishment highlighted the international community's recognition of the severity of the situation and the urgent need for accountability regarding the abuses against women's rights protesters. The "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement, fueled by the collective frustration with Iran’s restrictive dress code laws and broader systemic discrimination, brought the plight of Iranian women to the forefront of global discourse, showcasing their immense courage and determination in the face of severe repression. The expulsion of Iran from the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women in December 2022 was a direct consequence of these events, serving as a powerful symbolic and diplomatic rebuke of the Iranian government's actions against its female citizens.

Voices of Resistance: Iranian Women on the Frontlines

Despite the immense pressure and severe consequences, the struggle for women's rights in Iran is ongoing, marked by extraordinary resilience and determination. The annual report 2025, "The State of the People," offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of Iranian women's lives, focusing on the lived experiences of those on the frontlines of this struggle. This report highlights the diverse groups of women battling various forms of repression and hardship:

University Students: Fighting against educational repression, facing restrictions on their academic choices and personal freedoms within university environments.
Nurses: Laboring under dire conditions, often with inadequate resources and overwhelming workloads, yet continuing to serve their communities.
Teachers: Struggling against unpaid wages and precarious employment, highlighting broader economic injustices that disproportionately affect women.
Female Heads of Households: Battling economic hardship and societal pressures, often without adequate support, as they strive to provide for their families.

These individual and collective struggles illustrate the pervasive nature of challenges to women's rights in Iran, extending beyond political freedoms to economic and social justice. The determination of these women continues to inspire change, both within Iran and globally.

A notable act of resistance that drew extensive attention from Western media occurred on November 2, 2024, during a women's rights protest in Iran. Frustrated with Iran’s restrictive dress code laws, a woman chose to strip down to her underwear in front of her university entrance. While media outlets focused on her powerful act of defiance, this incident also underscored the broader, ongoing resistance. Such acts, whether public or private, embody the unwavering spirit of Iranian women who are determined to reclaim their autonomy and demand an "ordinary life," a demand that a feminist advocate highlighted as central to the liberatory "Woman, Life, Freedom" protests. Although setbacks and obstacles remain, the courage of Iranian women, exemplified by these diverse forms of resistance, continues to fuel the hope for a more equitable society.

International Scrutiny and Calls for Accountability

The grave situation of women's rights in Iran has not gone unnoticed on the international stage. Global human rights organizations and intergovernmental bodies continue to cast a critical eye on the Iranian government's actions, demanding accountability and urging for the protection of fundamental freedoms. The UN Human Rights office has consistently expressed deep concern over the Iranian government's intensified efforts to suppress the fundamental rights of women and girls and crush remaining initiatives of women’s activism. This consistent monitoring underscores the severity of the human rights crisis.

Amnesty International, a leading human rights organization, has issued stark warnings about the escalating crackdown on women's rights defenders, journalists, singers, and other activists in Iran. These individuals, who bravely demand equality or defy compulsory veiling, face severe repercussions including arbitrary detention, unjust prosecution, flogging, and even the death penalty. Amnesty's reports highlight a systematic campaign by Iranian authorities to quash the women's rights movement in Iran, particularly since International Women's Day (IWD) on March 8th, which often serves as a focal point for renewed activism and subsequent repression. The international community's concern is further evidenced by ongoing diplomatic efforts and reviews. For instance, the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Iran's human rights record, scheduled for its 48th session in January 2025, provides a crucial platform for scrutiny. Organizations like Impact Iran, in a joint submission with the Siamak Pourzand Foundation and All Human Rights for All in Iran, provide detailed information on women and girls' rights, aiming to inform the UPR process and advocate for stronger international action. These collective efforts from various international bodies and NGOs underscore the global commitment to holding Iran accountable for its human rights obligations and supporting the courageous individuals fighting for women's rights in Iran.

Defiance in the Face of Oppression: Individual Acts of Courage

While large-scale protests capture global headlines, the struggle for women's rights in Iran is also profoundly shaped by countless individual acts of courage and defiance. These acts, often undertaken at immense personal risk, highlight the deep-seated desire for freedom and autonomy that persists despite the government's oppressive measures. One poignant example is the case of Reza Khandan, who was arrested in December 2024 for supporting women’s rights in Iran. His act of resistance involved creating thousands of homemade buttons that boldly declared, "I oppose the mandatory hijab." This simple yet powerful statement, distributed widely, directly challenged one of the most visible symbols of oppression against women in Iran. Khandan had previously faced repercussions for his activism, demonstrating a sustained commitment to the cause of women's rights.

Such individual acts resonate deeply with the broader "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement, which, as a feminist advocate highlighted, centers on women’s demands for an "ordinary life." This seemingly simple desire encompasses a vast array of fundamental rights: the right to choose one's attire, to pursue education and career without discrimination, to have equal legal standing in marriage and family matters, and to live free from fear of arbitrary detention or violence. The woman who stripped down to her underwear in front of her university entrance in November 2024, while drawing immediate media attention, was also performing an individual act of profound defiance against restrictive dress code laws. These acts, whether grand or subtle, are critical components of the ongoing resistance. They serve not only as expressions of personal conviction but also as powerful inspirations for others, demonstrating that the spirit of resistance against the curtailment of women's rights in Iran remains unyielding. Each button, each public gesture, each quiet refusal to conform, contributes to the collective momentum for change, proving that even in the face of draconian laws and severe penalties, the human spirit's desire for freedom cannot be entirely extinguished.

The Path Forward: Hope for a More Equitable Future

The narrative of women's rights in Iran is undoubtedly fraught with challenges, marked by systemic discrimination, severe crackdowns, and a legal framework that often treats women as secondary citizens. However, amidst these formidable obstacles, a powerful undercurrent of hope and determination persists. The ongoing struggle, though met with setbacks, is sustained by the unyielding spirit of Iranian women and a growing global conversation around human rights.

The Unyielding Spirit of Iranian Women

Iranian women's resilience and determination continue to inspire change, both within their homeland and across the world. From university students bravely fighting educational repression to nurses laboring under dire conditions, teachers struggling for fair wages, and female heads of households battling economic hardship, their daily acts of endurance and defiance are a testament to an indomitable spirit. The "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement, sparked by the tragic death of Mahsa Amini, brought this resilience to the forefront, demonstrating a collective will to reclaim fundamental rights. Despite the adoption of draconian laws and the constant threat of severe penalties, including flogging and the death penalty, Iranian women continue to push boundaries, advocate for their rights, and demand an "ordinary life" free from oppressive restrictions. Their courage serves as a beacon, illuminating the path toward a more just and equitable society, reminding the world that the fight for human dignity is a universal and unwavering pursuit.

Global Solidarity and Sustained Advocacy

As the global conversation around women’s rights gains momentum, there is a growing hope for a more equitable society for women in Iran. The international community's continued scrutiny, exemplified by Iran's expulsion from the UN Commission on the Status of Women and ongoing Universal Periodic Reviews, plays a crucial role in maintaining pressure on the Iranian government. Organizations like Amnesty International, Impact Iran, and others tirelessly document abuses and advocate for accountability, ensuring that the plight of Iranian women remains visible on the world stage. Global solidarity, expressed through diplomatic pressure, sanctions, and public awareness campaigns, is vital in supporting the activists and ordinary citizens on the ground. This sustained advocacy helps amplify the voices of those fighting for women's rights in Iran, providing moral support and, at times, tangible assistance. While the path ahead is undoubtedly challenging and fraught with obstacles, the collective efforts of Iranian women and their international allies foster a cautious optimism that, eventually, the aspirations for fundamental freedoms and gender equality will prevail, leading to a future where women in Iran can live with the dignity and rights they deserve.

In conclusion, the journey of women's rights in Iran is a compelling saga of progress, reversal, and unwavering resistance. From the early 20th century's strides towards equality to the drastic setbacks post-1979, and the current era defined by systemic discrimination and draconian laws, Iranian women have consistently demonstrated remarkable courage. The "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement and countless individual acts of defiance underscore a profound desire for an "ordinary life" – one free from oppression and rich with fundamental rights. The international community's vigilance and advocacy remain crucial in supporting this ongoing struggle. As the global conversation around women's rights gains momentum, the hope for a more equitable society for women in Iran persists, fueled by their unyielding spirit and the solidarity of those who believe in universal human dignity.

We encourage you to stay informed about the situation in Iran and consider supporting organizations dedicated to human rights advocacy. Share this article to help raise awareness about the challenges and triumphs of women's rights in Iran, and join the conversation by leaving your thoughts in the comments below. For more in-depth analysis, explore reports from organizations like Amnesty International and UN Human Rights.

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