Mahsa Amini's legacy, four years after her murder by Iran's morality police - editorial

Four years ago this September, the life of Mahsa Amini was tragically cut short by the Iran's morality police. A 22-year-old Kurdish woman, she had been detained for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly. The anniversary of her death was marked across Iran on Wednesday, with widespread protests and a general strike. In her hometown of Saqqez, many shops remained closed, reflecting the ongoing impact of her death.

However, the focus on the hijab as the primary issue of the movement she sparked has been questioned. Yasser Fattahi, whose family experienced the violence of that time, emphasized that freedom encompasses more than the choice to wear a hijab. Despite these advancements, discrimination against women, political imprisonment, and continued executions persist in Iran.

The regime continues to enforce the law, employing various tactics such as arrests, surveillance, and pressure on businesses. Yet, the sight of women openly defying the mandatory hijab has become increasingly common. Economic hardship, political repression, and demands for personal freedom persist, shaping the lives of a new generation of Iranians.