The historical roots of women’s rights run deep, beginning with influential works such as Mary Wollstonecraft’s “A Vindication of the Rights of Woman” in 1792. This laid the groundwork for feminist movements in Europe and beyond.
In 1848, the Seneca Falls Convention marked a turning point in America, fueling activism sparked by intellectual foundations laid by feminist thinkers. Concurrently, figures like Ṭáhirih (meaning the ‘The Pure One’), a prominent Iranian poet, theologian of the Babi faith, played a significant role in shaping the discourse on women’s rights. Ṭáhirih challenged traditional norms and advocated for women’s education and social equality within the context of her faith, which emphasizes the equality of men and women.
Her contributions to the Conference of Badasht in 1848 further underscored the global nature of the struggle for women’s rights, highlighting the interconnectedness of movements across continents.
The establishment of the International Council of Women (ICW) in 1888 further internationalized efforts to advocate for women’s voices. This period also saw significant milestones, with the United Kingdom and Germany granting women the right to vote during the 1910s and 1920s.
Shifting focus to Iran between 1900 and 1940, there were notable changes in women’s rights amidst societal and political shifts. Iranian women faced challenges in accessing education, employment opportunities, and political representation. Cultural norms often restricted their mobility and participation in public life.
Ms Farrokhroo Parsa, a trailblazing Iranian physician and politician, and Empress Farah Pahlavi (Shahbanu) of Iran, were pivotal figures during the late 50’s to late 70’s. Parsa, as the first female cabinet minister in Iran, advocated for women’s rights and education. Shahbanu, supported initiatives promoting women’s education and healthcare.
Shirin Ebadi, a human rights lawyer and activist, brought global attention to women’s rights in Iran by winning the Nobel Peace Prize in 2003. Her work focused on advocating for the rights of women and children, as well as promoting democracy and rule of law in Iran.
Despite progress, challenges persisted, as seen in changes to Iranian law mandating the wearing of headscarves, reflecting broader debates on cultural and religious practices intersecting with women’s rights. These mandates sparked debates on individual freedoms and autonomy, highlighting tensions between traditional values and modern ideals.
However, between 1848 and 1979, Iran experienced a period of empowerment for women, marked by significant advancements in education, political representation, and societal recognition of women’s rights. Sadly, the landscape has shifted in recent years, with regressive measures undermining the progress made. Today, women in Iran face increasing challenges and restrictions, impacting their freedom, opportunities, and autonomy.
This reversal calls for urgent action and solidarity to voice and support the empowerment of women in Iran. It is imperative to advocate for human rights, gender equality, and women’s voices in decision-making processes. By standing together, raising awareness, and fostering dialogue, we can contribute to a future where all women, regardless of nationality or background, can live with dignity, equality, and empowerment.