Unveiling Iran's Deep-Rooted Sexism: A Daily Battle For Equality

Prof. Waino Jacobi PhD 21 Jun 2025

In the Islamic Republic of Iran, the struggle against pervasive sexism is not merely a social issue but a deeply entrenched, institutionalized system impacting every facet of life, from birth to public participation. This systemic discrimination against women and girls is a stark reality, often justified by misinterpretations of religious doctrine, creating intentional inequalities that ripple through society. Understanding the complexities of this issue requires a look beyond headlines, delving into the legal frameworks, societal norms, and the extraordinary resilience of Iranian women.

This article aims to shed light on the multifaceted nature of sexism in Iran, drawing on recent data and expert observations. We will explore how gender-based discrimination is woven into the fabric of the nation's laws and regulations, the profound impact it has on individuals, and the courageous defiance of those who tirelessly advocate for change in the face of escalating repression.

The Institutionalization of Sexism in Iran
Legal Discrimination: From Birth to Beyond
- Disparity in Legal Rights
- The Compulsory Veiling Laws
Education and Societal Segregation
Repression and Human Rights Violations
The Spirit of Defiance: Women on the Frontlines
Political Landscape and Promises vs. Reality
Historical Context and Complexities of Iranian Society
A Glimmer of Hope: The Young Generation
- The Path to Gender Equality

The Institutionalization of Sexism in Iran

The very foundation of the Islamic Republic of Iran's legal and social structure is built upon a sustained campaign to institutionalize gender discrimination, inequality, and sexism. This is not an accidental byproduct but a deliberate policy, where laws and regulations are meticulously crafted to create intentional inequalities between men and women. Disturbingly, these actions are often justified by using the Islamic faith as a tool for oppression, twisting religious principles to serve a political agenda that suppresses women's rights and autonomy. The systematic nature of this discrimination is starkly highlighted by international assessments; Iran was ranked 116 out of 153 countries in terms of legal discrimination against women, a position that underscores the severity of its institutionalized sexism. This ranking places Iran among the nations with the most significant legal barriers to gender equality, reflecting a legislative environment that actively disadvantages women in numerous aspects of life.

This institutionalized sexism permeates various spheres, from personal status laws concerning marriage, divorce, and inheritance, to public life, including employment and political participation. The state actively enforces these discriminatory norms, creating a societal framework where women are systematically denied equal opportunities and protections. The impact of such pervasive sexism is profound, shaping individual lives and limiting the potential of half the population. It creates a climate of fear and subjugation, where women's aspirations are curtailed by legal and social constraints, making the fight for basic human rights an arduous, daily struggle.

Legal Discrimination: From Birth to Beyond

The reach of Iran’s institutionalized sexism is so profound that it impacts a child’s life even before they are born, setting a precedent for gender-based value from the earliest possible stage. This deeply rooted discrimination is enshrined in laws that dictate the worth of an individual based on their gender, reflecting a system that devalues females from conception. The legal framework surrounding "blood money" or "diya" (compensation for injury or death) provides a chilling example of this disparity, where the life of a woman is legally worth half that of a man. This fundamental inequality is not merely symbolic; it has tangible, devastating consequences, reinforcing the idea that women are secondary citizens in the eyes of the law.

Disparity in Legal Rights

The legal discrimination extends far beyond the womb, permeating every aspect of a woman's life. In cases of "diya," or blood money, a compensation system for injury or death, the amount designated for a fetus is explicitly discriminatory: "This amount only applies if the fetus is a boy. If the fetus is a girl, the amount is halved." This deeply rooted legal disparity sets a chilling precedent, signaling from the earliest stage that a female life is inherently less valuable than a male one. This legal framework of sexism in Iran also dictates that a woman's testimony in court is often worth half that of a man's, limiting their ability to seek justice effectively. Furthermore, women face significant legal hurdles in areas such as divorce, child custody, and inheritance, where their rights are often subordinate to those of men. For instance, a woman typically needs a man's permission to travel abroad, and her right to divorce is severely restricted compared to a man's unilateral right. These laws collectively create a system where women are legally dependent and vulnerable, their autonomy systematically undermined by the state.

The Compulsory Veiling Laws

Perhaps one of the most visible manifestations of institutionalized sexism in Iran is the enforcement of compulsory veiling laws. These laws, which mandate that women cover their hair and bodies in public, are not merely dress codes but instruments of control and oppression. The Iranian authorities have intensified their assault on women’s rights, which includes introducing harsher draconian penalties to further punish those who defy these compulsory veiling laws. This crackdown has seen increased surveillance, arrests, and severe punishments for women who choose to express their freedom by not adhering to the mandatory hijab. The bravery of women and girls in Iran who continue to bravely defy these laws on a daily basis, often at great personal risk, is nothing short of admirable. Their persistent acts of defiance are a powerful rejection of the state's attempts to control their bodies and minds, symbolizing a deep yearning for freedom and equality in the face of an oppressive system.

Education and Societal Segregation

The institutionalization of sexism in Iran extends deeply into the educational system and broader societal structures, reinforcing gender roles and limiting opportunities from a young age. A fundamental aspect of this segregation is the practice of gender-segregated schools. In Iran, schools are segregated by gender, meaning boys and girls attend separate institutions from primary levels through higher education. While proponents argue this creates a focused learning environment, critics contend it perpetuates traditional gender roles, limits social interaction between genders, and often leads to disparities in educational resources and curriculum focus, particularly in fields deemed "masculine" or "feminine." This segregation begins early, shaping children's perceptions of gender roles and societal expectations, and limiting their exposure to diverse perspectives.

Beyond schools, the principle of segregation is often applied in public spaces, including universities, public transportation, and even some recreational facilities. This pervasive separation is designed to reinforce the state's vision of gender relations, where women's presence in public life is carefully controlled and circumscribed. Such policies contribute to a broader culture of sexism, where women's mobility, social interactions, and professional opportunities are often restricted. While women have made significant strides in educational attainment, often outnumbering men in university entrance exams, their professional advancement is frequently hampered by discriminatory employment practices and the societal expectations fostered by this segregation. This creates a paradoxical situation where highly educated women face systemic barriers to fully utilizing their skills and contributing to the nation's development, highlighting the deep-seated nature of sexism in Iran.

Repression and Human Rights Violations

The institutionalized sexism in Iran is inextricably linked to a brutal campaign of repression and widespread human rights violations, particularly targeting women and girls who dare to challenge the status quo. The government's response to peaceful dissent has been met with extreme violence, leading to severe abuses that have drawn international condemnation. According to the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on the Islamic Republic of Iran, in a statement issued from Geneva on March 8, 2024, "The violent repression of peaceful protests and pervasive institutional discrimination against women and girls has led to serious human rights violations by the Government of Iran, many amounting to crimes against humanity." This grave assessment underscores the severity of the situation, where the state's policies of gender discrimination are not merely unjust but are implemented with a level of brutality that constitutes international crimes.

The scale of this repression is alarming. Meanwhile, executions in Iran have surged to alarming levels, with at least 972 people executed in 2024 alone, the highest in eight years. Among those targeted are women activists, particularly those who advocate for greater freedoms and gender equality. The state uses these executions and other forms of harsh punishment as a tool to instill fear and suppress any form of dissent, especially from women who are at the forefront of the movement for change. The targeting of women activists is a deliberate strategy to dismantle the burgeoning women's rights movement and to maintain the patriarchal order. These actions demonstrate the regime's determination to uphold its system of sexism, even at the cost of human lives and fundamental liberties. The international community continues to monitor and condemn these abuses, but the daily reality for many Iranians, particularly women, remains one of severe oppression and the constant threat of state violence.

The Spirit of Defiance: Women on the Frontlines

Despite the pervasive and institutionalized sexism, a powerful spirit of defiance burns brightly among women and girls in Iran. Their courage in the face of severe repression is truly inspiring. It is with nothing but admiration, therefore, that I watch women and girls in Iran who continue to bravely defy Iran’s compulsory veiling laws on a daily basis. This act of defiance, seemingly simple, carries immense weight in a society where such actions can lead to imprisonment, fines, or even physical assault. They continue to do so in the face of the Iranian authorities’ intensified assault on women’s rights, which includes introducing harsher draconian penalties to further punish those who resist. This unwavering commitment to personal freedom and dignity, despite the escalating risks, highlights the deep desire for fundamental rights that resonates across the country.

This defiance is not limited to individual acts of removing the hijab; it manifests in broader collective actions. Iranians peacefully protested in the streets of places ranging from Tehran to smaller towns, demanding greater freedoms and an end to the systemic discrimination. These protests, often led and amplified by women, demonstrate a collective rejection of the state's oppressive policies. The "Woman, Life, Freedom" movement, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, became a powerful symbol of this resistance, uniting diverse segments of society in a call for radical change. The resilience and determination of these women, who stand as beacons of hope against a backdrop of severe human rights violations, underscore the ongoing battle against sexism in Iran and their unwavering commitment to a more equitable future for their nation.

Political Landscape and Promises vs. Reality

The political landscape in Iran, while seemingly undergoing shifts, often presents a façade of progress that rings hollow in the face of enduring institutionalized sexism. Recent political developments, such as the election of a new president, have brought promises of change, yet the reality on the ground for women often remains grim. Iran’s newly elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, has promised to end morality police patrols, a significant point of contention and a direct tool of state-enforced sexism. This promise, if fulfilled, could alleviate some of the daily pressures faced by women. However, his words ring hollow in the face of a recently passed hijab and chastity bill, which imposes even harsher penalties for non-compliance with compulsory veiling laws. This legislative contradiction highlights the deep-seated resistance within the establishment to any genuine reforms that would empower women.

Furthermore, the representation of women in the political sphere remains woefully inadequate, reflecting the systemic barriers they face in accessing positions of power. As of February 2024, only 5.6% of seats in parliament were held by women. This abysmal figure demonstrates the immense work still needed in Iran (Islamic Republic of) to achieve gender equality in decision-making roles. The lack of female voices in legislative bodies means that laws and policies continue to be shaped predominantly by men, often perpetuating the very sexism that oppresses women. While the promise of ending morality police patrols offers a glimmer of hope, the continued legislative efforts to control women's bodies and the stark underrepresentation of women in parliament underscore the vast chasm between political rhetoric and the lived reality of women in Iran, where the fight against institutionalized sexism is far from over.

Historical Context and Complexities of Iranian Society

To fully grasp the pervasive nature of sexism in Iran, it is crucial to understand the country's complex historical trajectory, which has profoundly shaped its attitudes towards gender and freedom. The Islamic Revolution of 1979 brought seismic changes to Iran, not least for women. Prior to the revolution, women in Iran enjoyed greater freedoms and social participation under the Pahlavi monarchy, including the right to vote, hold public office, and choose their attire. The revolution, however, ushered in a new era where religious interpretation became the primary lens through which laws and social norms were established, leading to the re-imposition of compulsory veiling and the implementation of discriminatory laws based on a specific, conservative interpretation of Islamic jurisprudence.

Furthermore, Iranians' attitudes about gender and freedom could be unique, complex, yet contradictory, as Iran's history is marked with periodic and abrupt socioeconomic and political turmoil and upheaval. This includes significant shifts like the religion shift from Zoroastrianism to Islam after the Arab Muslim invasion of Persia in the 7th century, and the enforcement of Shi'a Islam as an official state religion in the 15th century by the Safavid dynasty. These historical layers have created a society with diverse and often conflicting views on tradition, modernity, and individual liberties. The ongoing struggle against sexism in Iran is therefore not just a contemporary issue but is deeply intertwined with centuries of cultural, religious, and political evolution. This rich, tumultuous history explains why Iranian society holds a unique blend of progressive aspirations and deeply entrenched conservative elements, making the path to gender equality a multifaceted and challenging endeavor.

A Glimmer of Hope: The Young Generation

Despite the daunting challenges posed by institutionalized sexism and severe repression, a significant glimmer of hope emerges from Iran's vibrant young generation. This demographic, comprising both women and men, is increasingly in touch and in tune with an interconnected, interdependent world. Unlike previous generations, they have unprecedented access to global information and ideas, fostering a strong desire for universal human rights and freedoms. It is thanks to this young generation of women and men that the country, often described as an isolated and pariah state, is slowly but surely being pushed towards greater openness and reform. Their activism, whether through peaceful protests in the streets or subtle acts of defiance in daily life, demonstrates a profound commitment to reshaping Iran's future, moving it away from its current trajectory of oppression and isolation.

This generation is not merely reacting to the current political climate; they are actively envisioning and striving for a different Iran—one where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality. They leverage modern communication tools to organize, share information, and amplify their voices, creating a powerful collective force that challenges the traditional power structures. Their understanding of global norms and their insistence on fundamental human rights, including an end to sexism, represent a significant internal pressure point on the regime. The energy and determination of these young people are a testament to the enduring human spirit's capacity to resist oppression and fight for a more just and equitable society, offering a tangible pathway for change in the long run.

The Path to Gender Equality

While the spirit of the young generation offers undeniable hope, it is crucial to acknowledge that work still needs to be done in Iran (Islamic Republic of) to achieve comprehensive gender equality. The path forward is fraught with obstacles, from deeply entrenched legal discrimination to severe state repression. However, the continuous acts of defiance, the persistent calls for reform, and the growing global awareness of the situation provide a foundation for future progress. Achieving true gender equality will require not only the dismantling of discriminatory laws but also a fundamental shift in societal attitudes, which can only be brought about through sustained advocacy, education, and pressure from both within Iran and the international community.

The courage of Iranian women, who continue to risk everything for their rights, serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against sexism is a universal struggle. Their resilience fuels the hope that one day, Iran will emerge as a society where all individuals, regardless of gender, can enjoy full human rights and freedoms. The journey is long and arduous, but the unwavering determination of those on the frontlines of this battle keeps the vision of an equitable Iran alive.

Conclusion

The issue of sexism in Iran is a deeply complex and pervasive challenge, woven into the very fabric of the nation's legal, social, and political systems. From discriminatory laws that devalue women from before birth to the brutal repression of peaceful protests and the systematic exclusion of women from political power, the institutionalized nature of gender inequality is undeniable. Iran's low ranking in legal discrimination against women and the alarming surge in executions, particularly targeting women activists, underscore the severity of the human rights crisis.

Yet, amidst this oppression, the indomitable spirit of Iranian women and girls shines through. Their daily acts of defiance against compulsory veiling laws, their courageous participation in peaceful protests, and the collective voice of a young generation connected to a globalized world offer a powerful counter-narrative. While the path to comprehensive gender equality is long and arduous, marked by historical complexities and ongoing resistance from within the establishment, the resilience and unwavering determination of those fighting for change provide a profound glimmer of hope. It is imperative that the international community continues to amplify their voices, support their struggle, and hold the Iranian government accountable for its egregious human rights violations. The fight against sexism in Iran is a testament to the universal human yearning for freedom and dignity, reminding us all of the continuous need to advocate for justice and equality worldwide.

What are your thoughts on the challenges faced by women in Iran, and what role do you believe the global community can play in supporting their struggle? Share your insights in the comments below, and consider sharing this article to raise awareness about this critical issue.

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Unveiling Iran's Deep-Rooted Sexism: A Daily Battle For Equality

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