Iran - July 2023

Iran has reinstated the ‘morality police’ following a 10-month withdrawal due to nationwide protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022. This reintroduction is accompanied by the regime's proclaimed "softer" approach towards hijab enforcement, with President Ebrahim Raisi advocating for respectful dialogue. The renewed campaign was announced on 17 July, with a strategy emphasizing persuasion and counselling with women not observing the hijab, rather than punitive measures. The new approach is also marked by the introduction of a law currently being drafted by Iran’s Judiciary committee of the legislature (Majlis). The aim of this legislation is to outline the norms for wearing the hijab and specify penalties for non-compliance. This legislative move indicates a shift towards legal mechanisms for enforcing hijab compliance, rather than relying solely on the morality police.

The regime's reinstatement of the morality police and changes to enforce Islamic dress codes are viewed sceptically, seen as a deceptive tactic to intensify repression and curb unrest especially ahead of Amini's death anniversary and rising female protests. Despite government efforts, many women continue to resist hijab enforcement efforts.

Sources: Al Jazeera, Middle East Monitor, National Public Radio, Middle East Eye, Al Arabiya News