(RAHNUMA) Iran’s newly approved hijab legislation introduces some of the most extreme penalties in the world for violations of mandatory morality codes. Women now face imprisonment, hefty fines, and even the death penalty for actions deemed “indecent” or “promoting unveiling.” Such harsh measures not only risk undermining public support but could also further isolate Iran internationally.
Mandatory hijab laws are not new in Iran, but the intensification of punishments reflects a troubling escalation. Article 286 of Iran’s Islamic Penal Code now classifies certain acts of dissent, such as sharing videos of unveiled women with foreign media, as “corruption on Earth,” punishable by execution. Amnesty International has raised grave concerns about the implications of these laws, warning that they criminalize peaceful advocacy for women’s rights and embolden vigilantes to harass women under the guise of enforcing morality.
A Tale of Two Paths: Lessons from Saudi Arabia
Iran’s approach stands in stark contrast to the reforms in Saudi Arabia, another nation with a deeply rooted Islamic identity. Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia has implemented sweeping changes, including allowing women to drive, travel without male guardianship, and participate in public life. These reforms have not eroded Saudi society but have strengthened it, empowering women to contribute to the economy and fostering international goodwill. The kingdom’s move to relax restrictions has also played a crucial role in diversifying its economy, attracting global investment, and reshaping its image on the world stage.
Iran’s rigid enforcement of hijab, however, risks alienating half of its population—women. Two years after nationwide protests following the death of Mahsa Amini, Iranian women have continued to defy dress codes in public. These acts of defiance are not merely about the hijab itself but about the broader issue of personal agency. By responding with harsher penalties, the Iranian government risks deepening societal divisions and eroding public trust.
The Risks of Coercion
Forcing compliance with extreme measures is a dangerous strategy. History has shown that oppressive laws often lead to public unrest, weakening the very foundations of regimes. Women make up 50% of Iran’s population; their discontent cannot be ignored. The government’s decision to criminalize peaceful dissent and impose excessive punishments could backfire, galvanizing opposition across the social and political spectrum.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) emphasized compassion, moderation, and justice. While modesty is an important Islamic value, the Quran also teaches that “there is no compulsion in religion” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:256). The hijab, like any act of worship, should stem from personal conviction rather than state-imposed force. Moreover, in pre-Islamic Arabia, women performed Tawaf of the Kaaba without clothing—a practice Islam corrected by encouraging modesty, not by imposing draconian punishments. The concept of hijab has historically been open to interpretation, with many viewing it as simply covering one’s body modestly—a norm already observed in most modern societies.
A Path to Reform
Iran’s leadership must recognize that empowering women strengthens a nation. Saudi Arabia’s reforms provide a compelling example of how loosening restrictions can lead to economic growth, increased societal participation, and greater global respect. By prioritizing education and dialogue over coercion, Iran could foster an environment where modesty is embraced willingly as a cultural and spiritual value rather than as a mandate enforced by fear.
Continuing down the current path risks not only alienating the Iranian people but also further isolating the nation internationally. The protests sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death were a clear message: Iranian society is yearning for dignity, agency, and fairness. By reforming its hijab policies, Iran has an opportunity to rebuild trust with its citizens and the global community.
The choice before Iran is stark: it can continue to enforce harsh measures that alienate its people and tarnish its global reputation, or it can pursue a path of reform that aligns Islamic values with modern governance. True strength lies in listening to the voices of the people, not in silencing them.
