Iranian authorities arrested a female student Saturday after she staged a solo protest against harassment by stripping to her underwear outside her university, reports said.
The woman, who has not been identified, had been harassed inside the prestigious Tehran Azad University of Science and Research by members of the Basij militia who ripped her headscarf and clothes, according to reports by several news outlets and social media channels outside Iran.
She then took off her clothes in protest and sat outside the university dressed just in her underwear before defiantly walking in the street to the astonishment of passers-by, videos posted on social media channels showed.
Under the dress code mandatory in Iran, women must wear a headscarf in public and loose-fitting clothes that cover all bodily contours.
The footage, which was first posted by Iranian student social media channel, the Amir Kabir newsletter, was published by numerous Persian-language outlets, including the Dadban legal affairs social media channel, the Hengaw rights group, and Iran Wire news website.
The footage appeared to have been shot by onlookers in a neighboring building. Another video showed her being bundled into a car by men in plain clothes and driven off to an undisclosed location.
The Amir Kabir newsletter alleged she was beaten during the arrest.
It was not immediately possible to confirm the reports, but Iran’s conservative Fars news agency confirmed the incident in a report, publishing a picture with the student heavily blurred out.
It said the student had worn “inappropriate clothes” in class and “stripped” after being warned by security guards to comply with the dress code.
Citing “witnesses,” it insisted that the security guards spoke ”calmly” with the student and denied the reports that their action had been aggressive.
Unprecedented women-led protests erupted in 2022 demanding the abolition of the mandatory dress code following the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, an Iranian Kurdish woman who had been arrested for an alleged breach.
The protests, which saw women break taboos by removing their headscarves and on occasion even burning them, subsided in the face of a crackdown that left 551 protesters dead and thousands arrested.
Interview: Unveiling the Struggle for Women’s Rights in Iran
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome, everyone, to another edition of our in-depth interviews. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Leila Farrokhzad, a prominent scholar and activist specializing in women’s rights in Iran. Recently, we witnessed a bold act of defiance from a female student who protested against harassment in an extraordinary way. Dr. Farrokhzad, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Farrokhzad (DF): Thank you for having me. It’s essential to discuss the courageous actions of women in Iran.
TNE: Let’s start with the recent incident at Tehran Azad University of Science and Research. This student stripped to her underwear in protest against harassment. What are your thoughts on this form of expression?
DF: It’s a powerful and symbolic act. Stripping down can represent shedding societal constraints, and in this context, it underscores the desperation and anger women feel under oppressive regimes. This is not just a protest against personal harassment; it’s a broader statement against a system that restricts women’s rights and freedoms.
TNE: You mentioned the oppressive system. Reports indicate that members of the Basij militia were involved in this incident. Can you summarize the climate of violence and harassment that women face in Iranian society?
DF: Absolutely. The Basij militia, a paramilitary force, often targets women and minorities, enforcing strict interpretations of Islamic law. Women in Iran live under constant scrutiny and risk harassment not just in public spaces but also in educational institutions. The dress code mandates wearing a headscarf and loose-fitting clothing, which many women see as an infringement on their personal freedom. The climate of fear instills a sense of vulnerability, but the courage shown by this student reflects a growing frustration with these restrictions.
TNE: Videos of her protest have gained traction on social media. How significant do you think social media is in amplifying such acts of defiance?
DF: Social media plays a crucial role in this context. It allows for rapid dissemination of information and gives a platform to voices that might otherwise go unheard. In this case, videos not only showcased the bravery of the student but also ignited conversations on a global scale regarding women’s rights in Iran. The international community can no longer ignore these issues, thanks in part to the power of social media.
TNE: What legal protections exist for women in Iran who experience harassment, and how effective are they?
DF: Unfortunately, the protective laws are often not enforced. Legal frameworks do exist, theoretically, to protect women against harassment, but cultural and institutional barriers frequently hinder their effectiveness. Many women fear reporting incidents due to potential backlash or further victimization. The recent protest highlights the urgent need for the government to address these laws seriously and provide real protections for women.
TNE: What does this incident mean for the future of women’s rights in Iran? Are we seeing a shift?
DF: I believe we are witnessing the beginnings of a crucial shift. The defiance shown by this student and others indicates a rising tide of resistance. Women are increasingly refusing to accept the status quo and are demanding recognition, respect, and equal rights. We may well be at a turning point, where young women are no longer willing to remain silent.
TNE: As we wrap up, what message do you have for those standing in solidarity with Iranian women?
DF: Solidarity is vital. It’s important for the global community to amplify these voices and advocate against oppression. Whether through awareness-raising, advocacy, or support for sanctions against violators, every action counts. When women across the world support each other, we create a formidable force for change.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Farrokhzad, for sharing your insights. It’s clear that the struggle for women’s rights in Iran is fraught with challenges, but also filled with hope and resilience.
DF: Thank you for having me. Let’s continue to fight for justice and equality.
TNE: Absolutely. We’ll keep our audience updated on this critical issue. Thank you for joining us today. Until next time!