Women at the Front: The Gendered Face of Resistance to the IRGC

In the Islamic Republic of Iran, women have long been at the forefront of resistance against systemic oppression. From the early days of the 1979 revolution to the recent “Woman, Life, Freedom” movement, Iranian women have continuously challenged the state’s patriarchal structures, often facing severe repercussions. This report delves into the multifaceted roles women play in resisting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the broader regime, highlighting their courage, resilience, and the unique challenges they face. 

1. Historical Context: Women in Iran’s Revolutionary Landscape

The 1979 revolution marked a significant turning point for Iranian women. Initially hopeful for greater rights, they soon found themselves subjected to stringent laws enforcing compulsory hijab and restricting their freedoms. Despite these setbacks, women organized protests, such as the March 8, 1979 demonstration, where thousands rallied against mandatory veiling. Over the decades, women have remained active in various movements, from the 2009 Green Movement to the recent uprisings sparked by Mahsa Amini’s death.   

2. The “Woman, Life, Freedom” Movement

The death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September 2022, after being detained by the morality police for allegedly violating hijab laws, ignited nationwide protests. Women led these demonstrations, symbolically removing their headscarves and cutting their hair in public. The slogan “Woman, Life, Freedom,” rooted in Kurdish feminist movements, became a rallying cry, emphasizing the intersection of gender, life, and liberty. These protests transcended gender and ethnic lines, uniting diverse segments of Iranian society in a collective call for change.    

3. The IRGC’s Role in Suppressing Women’s Rights

The IRGC, a powerful military and political force in Iran, has been instrumental in enforcing the regime’s strict codes, particularly those targeting women. Through its Basij militia, the IRGC monitors public behavior, ensuring adherence to dress codes and suppressing dissent. Women activists often face arbitrary arrests, torture, and long prison sentences. Notable cases include:

 • Narges Mohammadi: A journalist and human rights advocate, Mohammadi has been repeatedly imprisoned for her activism. In a clandestine message from Evin Prison, she detailed the systematic abuse and sexual assault faced by female detainees, emphasizing the regime’s intensified war against women.  

 • Soheila Hejab: A Kurdish lawyer and civil rights activist, Hejab has been arrested multiple times for her advocacy. In 2020, she was sentenced to 18 years in prison on charges including “propaganda against the system” and “forming a women’s rights group.”  

 • Atena Daemi: A human rights defender, Daemi has endured multiple imprisonments and hunger strikes to protest the regime’s policies. Her activism highlights the personal sacrifices many women make in their fight for justice.  

4. Grassroots Resistance and Civil Disobedience

Beyond prominent figures, countless Iranian women engage in daily acts of resistance. From defying compulsory hijab laws to participating in underground networks, these women challenge the regime’s authority at great personal risk. The widespread participation of women in protests has also inspired broader societal shifts, with many men and conservative communities joining in solidarity.   

5. International Solidarity and Advocacy

The global community has taken notice of Iranian women’s struggles. International conferences, such as the “Women, Force for Change – Free Iran 2025” held in Paris, have spotlighted the resilience of Iranian women and called for global action against the regime’s oppressive policies.  

Conclusion

Iranian women have consistently demonstrated unparalleled courage in the face of systemic oppression. Their resistance against the IRGC and the broader regime underscores a broader struggle for human rights and dignity. As they continue to lead movements for change, their voices resonate not only within Iran but across the globe, inspiring countless others to stand up against injustice.