Iran using drones to spot women without hijab: UN report
What's the story
A new UN report has revealed that Iran is using high-tech surveillance methods to implement its stringent hijab laws.
The Iranian government is utilizing aerial drones, facial recognition software, and a state-backed mobile app named "Nazer" to target women who refuse to adhere to the country's compulsory headscarf mandate.
The dependence on digital means marks a considerable uptick in the use of technology for social control.
App details
Nazer app: A tool for reporting hijab violations
The "Nazer" app lets cops as well as civilians report women flouting hijab laws.
Users can enter a vehicle's license plate number, location, and time of the violation.
Once submitted, authorities are notified and the vehicle is flagged in an online system warning police forces.
Its registered owner also receives an automatic text message warning them about the violation and potential consequences for repeat offenders.
Coverage extension
Expansion of Nazer app's coverage
The "Nazer" app has now been extended to women traveling in ambulances, taxis, and public transport.
The Iranian government has also begun the use of aerial drones in Tehran and the south to check hijab adherence.
Moreover, surveillance cameras with facial recognition software have been set up at strategic points like university entrances to identify non-compliant female students.
UN allegations
Allegations of human rights violations in Iran
The UN report has also accused the Iranian government of committing crimes against humanity.
Sara Hossain, Chair of the Fact-Finding Mission, said, "In repressing the 2022 nationwide protests, State authorities in Iran committed gross human rights violations, some of which the Mission found to have amounted to crimes against humanity."
The report comes amid widespread protests against Iran's hijab laws and broader political and social issues.
Government response
Iran's crackdown on hijab non-compliance
The UN report notes that Iran has stepped up electronic surveillance and public reporting to enforce headscarf laws, even as hard-liners in the country seek harsher penalties for those protesting against these laws.
The Iranian government hasn't yet responded to the findings of the 20-page report, which also examines cases of alleged state-sponsored suicides among protesters and psychological torture through mock executions.