Iran Escalates Surveillance to Enforce Hijab Laws, UN Report Finds

The Iranian government is using drones, facial recognition, and a citizen-reporting app to monitor and penalize women violating mandatory dress codes, according to a United Nations investigation.

A UN fact-finding mission revealed Iran's increased use of advanced technology, including drones and facial recognition, to enforce mandatory hijab laws.
The government-backed 'Nazer' app allows citizens to report women not wearing a hijab, with details such as location and license plate, triggering police actions and warnings.
Authorities expanded surveillance in 2024 to include women in ambulances, public transport, and educational institutions, intensifying control over public spaces.
The UN report highlights systemic human rights violations and crimes against humanity, particularly targeting women and girls, with some facing severe penalties or even the death penalty under proposed laws.
The findings follow the 2022 protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, with ongoing repression, increased executions, and a climate of fear persisting across the country.