The Iranian regime’s morality patrol has once again expanded under the title of the ‘Noor (Light) Project’. With its warmongering in the region on one hand and the hijab issue on the other, Khamenei’s rule intends to restore the previous balance—a balance that was disrupted with the 2022 uprising and the heinous murder of Mahsa Amini. The regime’s Minister of Interior has praised the actions of the regime’s corrupt leaders.
During this period, numerous videos have emerged depicting the inhumane and cruel treatment of women and girls in the country, all in the name of enforcing mandatory hijab. Despite their presence in public spaces, these enforcers have failed to impose the mandatory hijab on women and girls.
In a conversation with a sociologist, the state-run newspaper Setareh-e Sobh has discussed the consequences of implementing the Noor Project. He says, “Social studies indicate that since the bitter events of 2022, society has entered a new phase. This new situation has deep roots; it’s impossible to revert society to its previous state through physical, judicial, police, or security means. Society is evolving in a direction that will ultimately shape our thoughts, ideas, and desires.”
The changes sparked by the 2022 nationwide uprising seem enduring, as the regime desperately attempts to thwart their impact. During this period, the regime has faced numerous challenges. One of these, which should not be overlooked, is the widespread participation of brave Iranian women in these uprisings—women who have been deprived of freedom and equal rights for over 43 years.
Continuing his discussion, the sociologist talks about women’s veil and hijab, stating, “Whether we like it or not, in matters of clothing and topics related to women, society is moving towards the freedom of choice. If the government aims to reverse this trend, it can only be achieved through cultural means. Cultural goals cannot be attained through legal constraints. My prediction for ongoing actions is failure.”
He concludes, “According to social psychology studies, social capital has never been as low as it is today. The way the hijab issue, academic critics, and those seeking their dues, such as retirees and workers, are dealt with serves as a powerful driver in reducing social capital.”
The Real Measure of Governance: The Freedom Index
The true measure of a people’s sovereignty lies in the freedom and democracy index, which directly confronts the authority of religious governance. After the 2022 protests, it became evident that real freedom and democracy in Iran are quantifiable. Firstly, it must be complete and in direct opposition to the despotic rule of Velayat al-Faqih.
The current state of society, one and a half years since the 2022 protests, is in absolute conflict with this regime. The people of Iran, especially brave women and girls, now demand nothing less than the ability to determine their own destiny.
We must acknowledge that the conflict with the rule of Velayat al-Faqih has reached a point of no return. Rebellious women and young people represent a new and defiant generation in the continuation of four decades of struggle against the ruling regime.
The regime’s resorting to such desperate measures is a clear sign of the desire for freedom and democracy by the people, which includes equality and women’s participation in all areas.
