Iran’s Surveillance Crackdown: Drones and Apps Enforce Hijab Laws

Iran Deploys Drones and Apps to Enforce Women’s Dress Code

Iran has intensified its efforts to enforce the country’s strict dress code for women, utilizing advanced technologies such as drones and mobile applications. This move is part of a broader initiative to suppress dissent and maintain control over society.

Use of Drones and Surveillance

Iranian authorities have deployed drones in public spaces, including Kish Island, to monitor women’s adherence to the mandatory hijab. Surveillance cameras and facial recognition systems are also being used to identify and track individuals who do not comply with the dress code. This technology allows for real-time monitoring and immediate action against those deemed non-compliant.

Mobile Apps for Reporting Non-Compliance

Citizens are encouraged to use mobile applications to report women suspected of violating the dress code, particularly in private vehicles like taxis and ambulances. The “Nazer” app, provided by Iranian law enforcement, allows users to input details such as location, date, time, and vehicle license plate number. This information flags the vehicle online, alerting authorities and triggering a warning text message to the vehicle owner.

Proposed Hijab and Chastity Bill

A proposed bill aims to further tighten surveillance measures by requiring authorities to photograph individuals who refuse to comply with hijab regulations. Authorities will immediately arrest such individuals and hand them over to the authorities for identification. The bill, initially passed in September 2023, is awaiting final approval but has already led to stricter enforcement.

Human Rights Concerns

The use of these technologies has raised significant concerns about privacy and human rights. Women who challenge these regulations face severe repercussions, including arrest, physical assault, and even sexual violence while in custody. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to suppress dissent and maintain the regime’s control over society.

Background and Protests

The enforcement of the hijab has been a contentious issue since the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022, which sparked widespread protests against the mandatory hijab law. Despite government crackdowns, many women continue to defy the dress code, leading to ongoing acts of civil disobedience.

In conclusion, Iran’s use of drones and apps to enforce the dress code reflects a significant escalation in the regime’s efforts to control women’s lives and suppress dissent. This approach has sparked international condemnation and highlights the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Iran.