The Iranian government has recently unveiled plans to open specialized facilities aimed at “treating” women who defy the country’s mandatory hijab laws, igniting a wave of global condemnation. Labeled as “hijab removal treatment clinics,” these centers are proposed to offer psychological and scientific counseling to women who reject or fail to comply with the compulsory dress code.

A Controversial Initiative

Mehri Talebi Darestani, head of the Women and Family Department at Tehran’s Headquarters for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice, announced the initiative. She stated that the clinics are intended to provide support to women struggling with their “social and Islamic identity,” particularly targeting teenagers. Framed as voluntary, these clinics aim to encourage women to reconnect with Islamic values and societal norms.

However, critics argue that this initiative disguises coercive tactics under the guise of counseling and psychological treatment. Many fear these clinics could become tools for the state to enforce conformity, suppress dissent, and punish women resisting the hijab laws.

Backlash from Human Rights Advocates

Iranian human rights lawyer Hossein Raeesi has called the initiative “neither Islamic nor aligned with Iranian law,” warning that it could pave the way for forced interventions. UK-based Iranian journalist Sima Sabet described the move as “shameful” and a dangerous step toward pathologizing women who oppose government ideology.

“This is a way of treating women as mentally unstable simply for not conforming to the government’s ideology,” Sabet remarked.

Ongoing Struggle Against Compulsory Hijab Laws

The announcement comes amid growing tensions in Iran, where women have been at the forefront of protests against dress codes. The tragic death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September 2022, following her arrest by the morality police for allegedly violating hijab laws, sparked widespread protests under the banner of “Woman, Life, Freedom.”

The movement has inspired women across the country to defy oppressive dress codes, risking arrest, imprisonment, and even violence. Reports of forced disappearances, psychiatric evaluations, and state violence against women who resist the hijab law have further highlighted the regime’s authoritarian grip.

Human Rights Violations Continue

Human rights organizations have repeatedly condemned Iran’s tactics. Last week, the Center for Human Rights in Iran reported the case of 25-year-old Roshanak Molaei Alishah, who was arrested after confronting a man who harassed her over her hijab. Similarly, a university student who removed her clothing in protest was detained and sent to a psychiatric hospital.

Adding to the suppression, Iranian authorities have banned several prominent actresses, including Taraneh Alidoosti and Katayoun Riahi, from working in the film industry due to their stance against the hijab law.

A Growing Movement for Change

As the Iranian government intensifies its efforts to enforce dress codes, the resilience of women in Iran continues to grow. Protests are reigniting, driven by the belief that these oppressive measures are an attack on personal freedom and dignity.

One Iranian woman summed up the public sentiment poignantly: “This won’t be a clinic; it will be a prison. We must take to the streets again before they silence us entirely.”

The Iranian government’s new initiative underscores the ongoing battle between state control and the fight for women’s autonomy. The global community watches closely, offering support and solidarity to those fighting for freedom in Iran.