A United Nations report has accused Iran of continuing severe human rights violations, particularly through the enforcement of hijab mandates after Mahsa Amini’s death. It details the use of technology for surveillance, highlights concerns over potential new legislation, and discusses state repression of protests, indicating a broader pattern of human rights abuses.
The United Nations has issued a report accusing Iran of serious human rights violations stemming from the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. The report indicates that these abuses persist throughout the country and highlights concerns regarding the enforcement of the hijab mandate.
Sara Hossain, chair of the UN’s fact-finding mission on Iran, noted the surveillance measures employed through a specific application that allows vetted individuals to report women not adhering to the hijab requirement. This extends to private vehicles as well as public transport, and consequences can include fines, warnings, and vehicle impoundment.
Hossain pointed out the unusual application of technology aimed at monitoring women’s clothing, suggesting that while many countries utilize facial recognition for protest enforcement, Iran’s focus on adherence to hijab laws is notably distinct.
Although Iran’s new president indicated a possible reduction in strict enforcement of these mandates, concerns arose regarding a potential new hijab and chastity law. Hossain stated that while the law has not yet been enacted, its possibility looms, and stricter enforcement of existing regulations is evident.
The report discusses the role of the Revolutionary Guards as enforcers of hijab compliance and details ongoing arrests of women violating these rules. Hossain elaborated on the severe repression of protests observed in 2022 and 2023, stating that there have been concerted efforts to silence dissent, affecting protesters and their families, journalists, and legal representatives.
In summary, the UN report underscores ongoing human rights violations in Iran, particularly regarding women’s rights and the enforcement of hijab laws. The use of advanced surveillance technology uniquely targeted at women’s compliance raises significant ethical concerns. Despite governmental promises for leniency, the potential for new laws and strict enforcement remains alarming, as does the overarching repression of protests and dissent within the country.
Original Source: news4sanantonio.com
