A new bill protecting women against domestic violence has been drafted and approved by Iran’s cabinet as of January 3rd. The bill, named the Protection, Dignity and Security of Women Against Violence Bill, has been in progress for over a decade and is largely attributable to the work of women’s rights advocates. It has now been sent to Iran’s Guardian Council, a judicial and religious body which has the power to overrule any legislation passed by parliament.
The bill defines violence as “any behaviour inflicted on women due to sexuality, vulnerable position or type of relationship, and inflicts harm to their body, psyche, personality and dignity, or restricts or deprives them of legal rights and freedoms.” It is multifaceted, seeking not only to criminalize domestic violence but also to implement measures to support victims. Such measures include commissioning state broadcasters to create content which promotes the prevention of domestic violence and support of victims, ed