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Women·Life·Freedom: The 2022 Iranian Hijab Protests and the History of Civil Disobedience

Gi Yeon Koo 1

1서울대학교 아시아연구소

Accredited

ABSTRACT

This study analyzes the large-scale protests in Iran triggered by the death of Mahsa Amini in September of 2022 along with the subsequent social changes. In particular, the paper highlights these protests within the historical context of Iranian civil society and the women’s movement. Under the slogan “Women, Life, Freedom,” the protests evolved from opposition to mandatory hijab laws into a broader move- ment demanding fundamental societal changes. Key events, such as the formation of civil society during President Khatami’s administra-tion in the late 1990s, the 2006 Million Signatures Campaign, and the 2009 Green Movement, illustrate the evolution of civil disobedience in Iran. The 2022 protests are characterized by their nationwide spread, cross- generational and cross-class participation, international solidarity through social media, and creative forms of resistance. They posed fundamental challenges to the Islamic regime, with significant participation from youth and women, reflecting a deep desire for societal transformation. This study examines the government’s response to the hijab protests in 2022, particularly the enforcement of hijab laws, and analyzes the ongoing patterns of resistance. In doing so, it presents a view of the deep fractures within Iranian society and the potential for future change. In conclusion, the 2022 protests were more than merely anti-government demonstrations; they were a significant event showcasing the maturity and capabilities of Iranian civil society. They offer a critical case study for understanding the potential and limitations of civil society movements under authoritarian regimes, contributing to broader discussions focusing on democratization, women’s rights, and social change in the Middle East. Additionally, by examining the history of Iran’s civil disobedience movements, this research provides valuable insights into the future political and social trajectory of Iran.

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* References for papers published after 2023 are currently being built.

This paper was written with support from the National Research Foundation of Korea.
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