Iran 'morality police' under scrutiny after girl put in coma

Activists have accused Iran's 'morality police' of beating 16-year-old Armita Geravand in Tehran, resulting in her falling into a coma. The incident, which occurred at a metro station allegedly due to her not wearing a hijab, has led to her hospitalization at a military hospital with strict security and no family visitation allowed. This event echoes the death of Jina Mahsa Amini, who died in custody of the 'morality police', sparking significant anti-government protests. Iranian officials claim Geravand fainted due to low blood pressure, but activists and international observers are skeptical, demanding the release of full video footage. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has called the situation 'unbearable' and an independent international investigation has been demanded by the NGO Iran Human Rights.

Alcohol in Iran, Turkey and the USA: Are all taboos justified?

The article examines the consequences of alcohol prohibition in Iran, Turkey, and the USA, highlighting the public health risks and underground networks that emerge from such bans. In the USA, Prohibition led to thousands of deaths from methanol poisoning before its repeal in 1933. Iran's strict alcohol ban since 1979 has similarly resulted in a rise in alcohol poisonings and the growth of underground networks. In contrast, Turkey allows regulated alcohol sales, balancing tradition and modernity, though high prices and taxes have also led to underground production. The article underscores the complexities and often detrimental effects of alcohol prohibition policies.

Alcohol in Iran: The deadly cost of prohibition

Iran's strict prohibition on alcohol, implemented since the 1979 Islamic revolution, has led to a rise in methanol poisoning and underground alcohol production, similar to the U.S. during its prohibition era. Despite severe penalties, Iranians continue to consume alcohol, resulting in numerous hospitalizations and deaths. Comparatively, Turkey allows regulated alcohol sales, balancing tradition and modernity, though high prices and taxes have also led to underground production. The article highlights the failure of prohibition in Iran and the desire among Iranians for more personal freedoms and safer consumption options.

Opinion: With or without a hijab, Iran needs a revolution

The hijab in Iran symbolizes fear, humiliation, and a misogynist ideology aimed at suppressing women. The debate over the alleged abolition of the morality police is seen as a distraction from the broader issue of the regime's systemic human rights violations. The author recounts personal experiences of oppression and argues that the real problem is the entire regime, not just the hijab mandate. The piece calls for a revolution to address these deep-rooted issues.

هزارتوی فساد در جمهوری اسلامی و ژست مبارزه با آن

Review of the Women's Rights Movement in Saudi Arabia

Women's rights in Saudi Arabia have historically been more restricted compared to neighboring countries due to the dominance of Sharia law. Despite international criticism of human rights in Saudi Arabia, reforms have been initiated since 2017 under King Salman's orders, including lifting some bans as part of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's efforts for economic and social transformation. These include allowing women to obtain passports and travel abroad without male guardian approval and the right to drive. However, discrimination persists in other areas, and women's rights activists still face arrest, trial, imprisonment, or are forced into silence. The World Economic Forum's 2020 Global Gender Gap Report ranked Saudi Arabia 146th out of 153 countries, indicating a long road ahead for gender equality. The interview with Saudi-born activist, blogger, nurse, and physician Omaima Najjar, who now studies in Ireland, reveals her involvement in the women's rights movement and the impact of social media and NGOs in organizing and advocating for change. The recent legal changes are seen as superficial by some, serving more as a public relations move for the Saudi government rather than substantial improvements in women's rights.