Iran's Gender Paradox: Unveiling "Be Like Others"

Mr. Jack Roob DVM 21 Jun 2025

In a world often grappling with the complexities of gender identity and sexual orientation, few nations present a paradox as striking as Iran. It is a country where, under strict Islamic law, homosexuality is punishable by death, yet, surprisingly, gender reassignment surgery is not only legal but, in some cases, even encouraged. This profound and often heartbreaking dichotomy is the central theme explored in the powerful 2008 documentary film, "Be Like Others Iran," a work that offers an intimate and unflinching look at the lives of young individuals navigating this unique societal landscape.

Directed by Tanaz Eshaghian, "Be Like Others Iran" delves deep into the personal stories of those on the fringes of Iranian society who choose to undergo sex change surgery. The film explores critical issues of gender and sexual identity, cultural expectations, and the profound implications and sacrifices involved in seeking acceptance through such radical means. It's a narrative that challenges preconceived notions, forcing viewers to confront the intricate layers of faith, law, and human desire for self-determination within a restrictive environment.

The Unflinching Gaze: Introducing "Be Like Others Iran"
A Nation of Contradictions: Homosexuality vs. Transgenderism in Iran
- The Khomeini Fatwa: A Surprising Edict
- Navigating the Legal Labyrinth: Life on the Fringes
Personal Journeys: Voices from a Tehran Clinic
The Weight of "Be Like Others": Societal Pressures and Acceptance
The Medical Path: Reassignment Surgery in Iran
- Ethical Dilemmas: Compassion or Coercion?
The Film's Legacy and Disappearance: Why "Be Like Others" Matters
- The Challenge of Access: Locating a Crucial Narrative
Beyond the Screen: The Ongoing Struggle for Identity in Iran
Conclusion: Echoes of Identity and the Quest for Belonging

The Unflinching Gaze: Introducing "Be Like Others Iran"

"Be Like Others" (also known as "Transsexual in Iran") is a documentary film written and directed by Tanaz Eshaghian. Released in 2008, it quickly garnered attention for its courageous portrayal of a deeply sensitive and often misunderstood subject. The film's premise is starkly laid out at its opening: "In the Islamic Republic of Iran, sex change operations are legal. Homosexuality is punishable by death." This immediate juxtaposition sets the tone for a narrative fraught with tension, hope, and despair. Eshaghian's work is an intimate and unflinching look at life in Iran, seen through the lens of those living at its fringes – young men and women considering or undergoing gender reassignment surgery.

The documentary is not merely an academic exploration; it is deeply personal. It follows the individual stories of several patients at a Tehran gender reassignment clinic, providing a rare glimpse into their consultations, their fears, and their motivations. Through these interviews, the film sheds light on the complex issues of gender identity, sexuality, and the immense cultural expectations that weigh heavily on these individuals. It forces viewers to question what it truly means to "be like others" in a society where conformity can be a matter of survival, and where the path to acceptance might lead through a surgical ward.

A Nation of Contradictions: Homosexuality vs. Transgenderism in Iran

One of the central themes that resonate throughout "Be Like Others Iran" is Iran's surprising policy towards transgenderism. This policy stands in stark contrast to the country's severe penalties for homosexuality. In Iran, according to Islamic law, homosexuality is indeed punishable by death, a reality that casts a long shadow over the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals. This harsh stance pushes many who identify as gay or lesbian into the deepest shadows, fearing for their lives if their true sexual orientation is discovered.

However, the narrative shifts dramatically when it comes to transgenderism. While homosexuality is illegal and punishable under Iranian law, transgenderism has been technically legal since a fatwa (a religious edict) was issued by Ayatollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, in the 1980s. This edict, reportedly issued after a trans woman sought his guidance, distinguished between "true" gender identity (where one's internal sense of self does not align with their assigned sex at birth) and homosexuality. The interpretation was that if a person genuinely felt they were of the opposite gender, then undergoing surgery to align their physical body with their internal identity was permissible under Islamic law. This created a unique and often tragic loophole for individuals who might otherwise be persecuted for their sexual orientation or gender expression.

The Khomeini Fatwa: A Surprising Edict

The fatwa issued by Ayatollah Khomeini in the 1980s is a pivotal point in understanding the landscape depicted in "Be Like Others Iran." This religious decree provided a legal and religious framework for gender reassignment surgery, effectively legitimizing it within the Islamic Republic. For many outside observers, this policy appears counterintuitive, given Iran's conservative religious governance. However, the distinction lies in the theological interpretation: homosexuality is seen as a sinful act, a choice, whereas gender dysphoria is perceived as a medical condition, a "mistake of creation" that can be corrected. This interpretation, while offering a pathway for some, also creates immense pressure and complex ethical dilemmas.

The fatwa meant that individuals experiencing gender dysphoria could legally pursue medical transition, including hormone therapy and surgical procedures. This legality, however, came with significant societal implications. It opened the door for people to live in a way that aligned with their internal gender, but it also inadvertently pushed some gay and lesbian individuals into considering or undergoing surgery as a means of survival, to "correct" their perceived deviance and avoid severe punishment. The film hints at this tragic consequence, where the choice to "be like others" might not always stem from genuine gender dysphoria but from a desperate need for social and legal acceptance.

Navigating the Legal Labyrinth: Life on the Fringes

For those living on the fringes of Iranian society, navigating this legal labyrinth is a daily struggle. The state's acceptance of gender reassignment surgery is conditional and often comes with significant bureaucratic hurdles. Individuals seeking transition must obtain a legal permit, often requiring psychological and medical evaluations to confirm gender dysphoria. Once approved, the state may even provide some financial assistance for the procedures, a testament to the official recognition of the condition.

However, this legal framework does not erase the deep-seated societal stigma. While the government may sanction the surgery, families, communities, and even religious figures often hold conservative views. The individuals featured in "Be Like Others Iran" grapple with this dual reality: legal permission on one hand, and profound social pressure, misunderstanding, and even ostracization on the other. Their lives are a testament to the courage required to pursue authenticity in a society that often demands conformity, even if that conformity means undergoing a life-altering surgery to "be like others" in the eyes of the law and society.

Personal Journeys: Voices from a Tehran Clinic

At the heart of "Be Like Others Iran" are the raw and deeply moving personal stories of the young individuals who open up about their lives. The film takes us inside a Tehran gender reassignment clinic, where patients share their innermost thoughts, fears, and hopes with remarkable candor. These are not just statistics; they are human beings grappling with profound questions of identity, faith, and belonging.

Among those featured are young men and women who feel trapped in bodies that do not align with their true selves. We see their consultations with doctors, their emotional struggles, and the immense pressure they face from their families and society. Some express a genuine, lifelong conviction that they are in the wrong body, describing profound distress and a desperate need for alignment. Others reveal more complex motivations, hinting at the societal pressures that might lead them to choose surgery as an escape from the severe penalties associated with homosexuality. The film meticulously captures their vulnerability, their moments of doubt, and their unwavering determination to find peace and acceptance.

Their narratives highlight the emotional toll of living with gender dysphoria in a society that offers limited avenues for expression. For many, the surgery is not just a physical transformation but a spiritual and emotional liberation, a chance to finally "be like others" in a way that feels authentic to them. Yet, the film also subtly raises questions about the psychological screening process and whether all individuals undergoing surgery are doing so purely out of gender dysphoria, or if some are pushed by the dire alternatives.

The Weight of "Be Like Others": Societal Pressures and Acceptance

The title "Be Like Others" itself encapsulates a profound societal pressure prevalent in Iran. In a collectivist and religiously conservative society, conformity often equates to safety and acceptance. For individuals whose gender identity or sexual orientation deviates from the norm, the pressure to "be like others" can be overwhelming. This pressure is not just external; it can be internalized, leading to immense psychological distress.

The film vividly portrays how families, while often loving, can inadvertently contribute to this pressure. Faced with a child who expresses gender non-conformity or same-sex attraction, some families might view gender reassignment surgery as the "lesser of two evils" – a way to avoid the social stigma and legal repercussions of homosexuality. For a trans man assigned female at birth, for instance, transitioning to male allows him to marry a woman, thereby conforming to heterosexual norms, even if his internal experience of gender is what drives the transition. Conversely, a trans woman assigned male at birth, transitioning to female, also aligns with a more accepted social role, albeit with its own set of challenges.

This dynamic creates a complex web of motivations. Is the surgery a genuine affirmation of identity, or a desperate attempt to fit into a rigid societal mold? "Be Like Others Iran" doesn't offer easy answers, but rather presents the lived experiences of those caught in this intricate ethical and social dilemma. It underscores that while legal, the path to gender reassignment in Iran is far from simple or universally celebrated; it is often fraught with internal conflict and external judgment.

The Medical Path: Reassignment Surgery in Iran

The medical infrastructure for gender reassignment surgery in Iran is surprisingly developed, a direct consequence of the Khomeini fatwa. Tehran, in particular, has clinics and surgeons specializing in these procedures. The process typically involves extensive psychological evaluations, hormone therapy, and then, for those deemed suitable, surgical interventions. The film provides glimpses into these clinical settings, showing the interactions between patients and medical professionals.

The decision to undergo such a profound and irreversible procedure is never taken lightly. For the individuals in "Be Like Others Iran," it represents a monumental step towards aligning their physical selves with their internal identities. However, the film also subtly raises questions about the motivations of some medical practitioners and the broader ethical implications of the system. The very existence of this legal pathway, while a lifeline for many, also creates a complex situation where the line between genuine gender dysphoria and societal pressure can become blurred.

Ethical Dilemmas: Compassion or Coercion?

A critical point of discussion and one that the film implicitly invites is whether the medical professionals involved are truly compassionate or, as some might argue, charlatans. The "Data Kalimat" specifically mentions this query: "Be like others should have compared and contrasted what the operation from man to woman looks like in other countries versus Iran so we could truly understand whether or not the doctor was compassionate or a charlatan." This highlights a significant ethical debate. Are doctors genuinely helping individuals achieve their authentic selves, or are they, perhaps inadvertently, facilitating a pathway that some individuals choose out of fear rather than true gender identity? The film doesn't explicitly answer this, but by showing the raw stories, it encourages viewers to ponder the complexities.

In a system where homosexuality is severely punished, and gender reassignment is legal, there's an inherent risk that individuals who are gay or lesbian might be misdiagnosed or encouraged to transition as a "cure" for their sexual orientation. This raises serious ethical concerns about informed consent and the potential for medical procedures to be used as a means of social control. While the film doesn't delve into a comparative analysis with other countries, its intimate portrayal of the Iranian context allows viewers to draw their own conclusions about the ethical landscape of gender-affirming care within this unique legal and social framework.

The Film's Legacy and Disappearance: Why "Be Like Others" Matters

"Be Like Others Iran" is more than just a documentary; it is a vital piece of social commentary and a historical record of a unique moment in Iran's social and legal history concerning gender identity. Upon its release, it garnered significant attention for its bravery and its ability to shed light on a topic rarely discussed openly, especially from within Iran itself. The film served as an eye-opener for many in the West, challenging simplistic narratives about the Middle East and demonstrating the nuanced realities of life under Islamic law.

Its impact lies in its humanization of a marginalized group, providing a platform for voices that might otherwise remain unheard. It forces viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about human rights, religious interpretations, and the universal quest for identity and acceptance. The film's unflinching honesty makes it a powerful educational tool, fostering empathy and understanding for those navigating complex personal and societal challenges.

The Challenge of Access: Locating a Crucial Narrative

Despite its importance, "Be Like Others Iran" has become increasingly difficult to access. The "Data Kalimat" notes that it "was recently removed from Amazon Instant Video with no warning." This removal, coupled with the general challenges of distributing sensitive content, means that finding the film can be a significant hurdle for those interested in its subject matter. The phrase "See be like others before it gets even harder to locate" underscores this growing concern.

The difficulty in accessing such a crucial documentary is problematic for several reasons. Firstly, it limits public understanding of a complex human rights issue. Secondly, it silences the voices of the individuals who bravely shared their stories. In an era where information is readily available, the disappearance of such a significant work from major streaming platforms like Amazon Prime Video (though it was noted as available on Prime Video in Iran in 2008, its global availability has shifted) or the lack of presence on Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, or Peacock, is a loss for global discourse on gender identity and human rights. Its continued obscurity risks erasing a vital part of the narrative surrounding transgender lives in Iran and the broader Middle East.

Beyond the Screen: The Ongoing Struggle for Identity in Iran

While "Be Like Others Iran" offers a snapshot of a particular time, the issues it raises continue to resonate today. The lives of transgender individuals in Iran remain complex. While legal, the social stigma and challenges persist. Even after undergoing surgery, individuals face the daunting task of integrating into a society that may not fully understand or accept their new gender identity. They must navigate family dynamics, employment opportunities, and social interactions in a new light, often with limited support systems.

Moreover, the film indirectly highlights the plight of those who identify as gay or lesbian and do not experience gender dysphoria. For them, the legal pathway of gender reassignment is not an option, and they continue to face severe persecution. This creates a tragic dilemma where some individuals may feel pressured to claim gender dysphoria they do not experience, simply to avoid the death penalty associated with homosexuality. This is a nuanced and painful reality that extends far beyond the scope of the film but is implicitly part of its broader context.

The ongoing struggle for identity in Iran is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the legal paradoxes and societal pressures, individuals continue to seek authenticity and belonging. "Be Like Others Iran" serves as a poignant reminder of these struggles and the courageous choices people make in the pursuit of their true selves, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

Conclusion: Echoes of Identity and the Quest for Belonging

"Be Like Others Iran" is a powerful and essential documentary that provides a rare window into the lives of transgender individuals in a country often shrouded in mystery and misconception. It meticulously unpacks the startling paradox of Iran's legal stance on gender reassignment surgery versus its severe penalties for homosexuality, revealing a complex tapestry of religious edicts, societal pressures, and profound personal journeys. The film's intimate and unflinching look at these lives compels us to reconsider our understanding of gender, identity, and the lengths to which individuals will go to find acceptance and live authentically.

The stories of the young men and women featured in the documentary are a testament to human resilience, courage, and the universal desire to "be like others" – not necessarily in conformity, but in finding a place where one's internal self aligns with their external reality. As the film becomes increasingly difficult to locate, its message and the voices it amplifies become even more critical. We encourage you to seek out "Be Like Others Iran" if you can, and to engage with its challenging yet vital narrative. Share your thoughts in the comments below – what did you find most surprising or impactful about this unique aspect of Iranian society? Your insights contribute to a broader understanding of these complex human experiences.

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Iran's Gender Paradox: Unveiling "Be Like Others"

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