veil and the state: Debating the unveiling and re-veiling of women in twentieth-century Iran

Hijab, the Islamic dress code, in Muslim communities is a sensitive and controversial issue. It embodies religious doctrine and patriarchal policies. However, in Iran this concept entails a more exclusive significance due to the strict nature of the Shiite faith, which is prevalent in Iran, along with a volatile political system and harsh practices of patriarchy and male domination that are legitimized by Iranian culture and traditions. The legacy of veiling in Iran is not a product of Islam and Islamic laws. Such a practice had existed in Iran centuries before the appearance of Islam in Mecca. The veil predates Islam, and during the ancient dynasties in Persia the veil and harem were common practices. The veil has often been a source of male domination and patriarchy in Iran. During the twentieth century, the coercive unveiling and re-veiling have played important roles in the repression, exclusion and seclusion of women, which have assisted the state to continue its domination over women and achieve political gains and progress.