ANKARA - Human rights defender Nasrin Afzali stated that women in Iran resist both the government and their families who reject them due to social pressure, despite detention, harassment, rape and oppression.

 

In the cities of Iran and Rojhilat (Eastern Kurdistan), the rebellion and anger that emerged after the murder of Jîna Emini (22) continues. In many cities, citizens continue to show their condemnation with actions and strikes, as well as at various points and banners they hang on their homes. According to the report of the Kurdistan Human Rights Network covering the period between March 21, 2022 and March 21, 2023, 573 people lost their lives during the protests that started in Iran and Rojhilat after Jîna Emini died on September 16, 2022. During this period, 22,000 people were detained. The names leading the women's resistance were subjected to torture, sexual assault and harassment in detention and prisons, while women who opposed the compulsory headscarf practice were deprived of their social rights. Despite all the pressures, women did not push back, while the Iranian regime presented the new "Veiling and Chastity Law" to the Council of the Council, which regulates the headscarf requirement in order to keep this revolt under control.

 

Human rights defender and activist Nasrin Afzali spoke about the women's exposure and the ongoing resistance.

 

STRIPPED SEARCH, HARASSMENT AND RAPE

 

Stating that those who got through in detention and prisons are disclosed by women: Afzali said: "Women and girls have shared accounts of physical abuse, including beatings, as well as sexual harassment and assault by interrogators or officers while in custody. In some cases, they have been subjected to rape or coerced into engaging in sexual acts against their will. Additionally, there have been instances where women were forced to remove all their clothes and be naked while being filmed or observed by others. It is worth noting that the government of Iran has claimed that these measures are implemented to prevent the smuggling of drugs into prisons; however, it is important to emphasize that such treatment should never be justified, particularly in cases involving children or political prisoners. These actions violate the rights of political prisoners, and alternative methods should be used to ensure security without resorting to humiliation and abuse."

 

THE GIRLS AND WOMEN WERE REJECTED BY THEIR FAMILY

 

Stating that the women and girls released from prison were rejected by their families and reports are kept on this matter, Afzali said: " There have been reports of women and girls facing rejection and exclusion from their families upon release from prison. This rejection stems from fear of societal judgment and stigma surrounding the women's incarceration, which leaves these women doubly traumatized. Not only have they endured rape and sexual harassment during their time in custody, but they also face the emotional distress of being rejected and ostracized by their own families. These accounts highlight the serious human rights violations and the need for increased attention and support for women who have experienced such traumatic situations. It is crucial to advocate for the rights and well-being of these individuals, as well as work towards preventing further instances of torture, sexual harassment, and violence within the prison system."

 

THE MURDERS OF WOMEN ARE HIDDEN UNDER THE NAME OF 'HONOR'

 

Drawing attention that the murders, attacks and disappearances that took place in the country under the name of "honour", Afzali said: "Honor killings, acid attacks, self-immolation, femicide, and women disappearing are indeed alarming issues that have devastating consequences for women and girls. It is disheartening to know that many cases go unreported and unrecognized, as the government may attempt to conceal or downplay these acts by categorizing them as "family issues," suicides, or natural causes.

It is crucial to acknowledge that any form of violence against women, including honor killings, is a grave violation of human rights. The practice of forcing girls into early marriages, often against their will, is particularly concerning. These girls are robbed of their childhood and forced to bear the responsibilities of marriage and motherhood while still being children themselves. The absence of legislation to prevent such marriages and the lack of enforcement against those responsible perpetuate these harmful practices.

 

THE POLICY OF THE IMPUNITY

 

Stating that a policy of impunity was applied to the murders of women, Afzali said: "The fact that the law pardons fathers or husbands who commit these crimes is deeply troubling. In Iran, for example, fathers can kill their own children, and husbands can kill their wives if they suspect them of infidelity. Furthermore, when a female family member is killed by a cousin or brother, the family often forgives the murderer, resulting in minimal consequences. This leniency and sometimes even encouragement of violence against women create an environment where it becomes easier to take their lives. The absence of support systems or safe spaces for women facing violence exacerbates their vulnerability. Without access to help or refuge, many women are left in desperate situations and may resort to taking their own lives due to hopelessness and severe suffering. Addressing these deeply entrenched societal issues requires comprehensive efforts from the government, civil society organizations, and communities. It is crucial to establish and enforce laws that protect women and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions. Raising awareness, challenging cultural norms that perpetuate violence, and providing support networks for women at risk are also essential steps in combating honor killings and other forms of gender-based violence."

 

THE RESISTANCE OF WOMEN CONTINUES

 

Stating that the resistance of women that started with the murder of Jîna Emini continues, Afzali said: "Women are still fighting on a daily basis against compulsory Hijab in the workplace, their homes, and family gatherings. They go out without Hijab to the streets, parks, and to work. They are subjected to threats, beatings, and intimidation for not adhering to the hijab rules. Recently, there have been reports of the Iranian government taking measures to enforce the observance of the hijab by women and potentially using social services and rights as leverage. These measures include actions like blocking bank accounts, cutting phone lines, or limiting internet access for those who do not adhere to hijab standards. In a recent incident, a blogger and comedian shared on her Instagram account that her phone was cut off by the government. She claimed to have received a message from Fata, the police for cyber crimes, summoning her for an interrogation related to her Instagram activities. Consequently, she was without phone access for approximately a week. Following her visit to the police, she posted a story on Instagram publicly apologizing for her actions on the platform. Some observers believe that she was coerced by the police into publishing that apology. Given her substantial following of hundreds of thousands, there are speculations that the government aims to use her as an example to deter other women from engaging in perceived violations on Instagram, particularly regarding hijab non-compliance. The intention may be to demonstrate that there can be consequences, such as phone line suspension, for those who are deemed to have acted wrongly."

 

THE IRAN REGIME ATTEMPTS TO CREATE A CLIMATE OF FEAR

 

Drawing attention that the punishment mechanisms against women have become permanent, Afzali continued as follows: "Targeting individuals, such as the blogger and comedian we mentioned, and forcing them to publicly apologize is a form of coercion and control. It creates a climate of fear and restricts the ability of women to express themselves freely. Celebrities, actresses, and other prominent figures are being called to court and sentenced for not obeying the hijab rules. This not only affects their personal lives but also sends a message to the wider society about the consequences of non-compliance.

The practice of repeatedly interrogating and imprisoning individuals who have already been released is a tactic often used by oppressive regimes like the Islamic Republic of Iran to maintain control and suppress opposition."

 

MA/STERK SÜTCÜ