Intersecting Oppressions: Rape Culture, Honour, and Legal Inequality in Iran

This paper examines the cultural and legal challenges faced by Iranian women in the aftermath of rape and sexual assault, focusing on the impact of rape culture and patriarchal norms embedded in the nation's laws and societal values. It explores the role of "honour" in perpetuating gender-based violence and the systemic barriers that discourage women from seeking justice. Through a detailed analysis of post-1979 legal reforms and the rise of the #MeToo movement in Iran, the paper highlights how Iranian women have used digital platforms to break the silence around sexual violence, challenge oppressive norms, and mobilize for social change. It also discusses the concept of intersectionality as a framework to understand the compounded forms of discrimination faced by women in Iran. Ultimately, this study underscores the significance of the #MeToo movement in Iran as a transformative force that is pushing for a deeper, systemic change towards gender equality and social justice.