Iranian women defy motorcycle banーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Motorcycle popularity in Iran
• Impact of US sanctions on car prices
• Traffic congestion in Tehran
• Legal restrictions on women obtaining motorcycle licenses
• Social attitudes towards women riding motorcycles
• Women's activism and protests
• Advocacy for women's motorcycle licensing
• Challenges faced by women riding without licenses (legal, safety, financial)
• Political and religious opposition to women's licensing
• Potential for social instability

Motorcycle Popularity and Economic Factors

In Iran, there has been a significant surge in motorcycle ownership, largely driven by economic pressures. US sanctions have dramatically increased the cost of cars, making them unaffordable for many. This economic reality, coupled with severe traffic congestion in cities like Tehran, has led more people to opt for motorcycles as a more practical and economical mode of transportation. Motorcycle sales have nearly doubled since 2020, indicating a clear shift away from car ownership.

Legal Restrictions and Social Attitudes Towards Women

While Iranian women are legally permitted to drive cars, they are prohibited from obtaining motorcycle licenses. This ban is attributed to the views of hardline conservatives who believe that women riding motorcycles is contrary to Islamic standards, citing concerns about exposure to wind and the potential for "excessive display of her beauty."

Despite this legal restriction, there is a noticeable increase in the number of women riding motorcycles on the roads. This trend is seen by some as a potential indicator of evolving social attitudes. Motorcycle industry groups report that the number of women riding motorcycles has doubled over the past 10 years.

Women Riding Without Licenses: A De Facto Tolerance

Many women ride motorcycles without a license, and the police appear to rarely intervene, leading to a situation of de facto tolerance. Public sentiment seems to be shifting, with many Iranians expressing acceptance of women riding motorcycles, provided they adhere to the law. Statements like, "Women should have licenses as long as they follow the law. Those who don't allow women to have licenses are outdated and only look to the past," reflect this growing sentiment.

The Influence of Social Activism

A significant factor contributing to the shift in public sentiment is believed to be the widespread protests that erupted in Iran three years prior, sparked by the death of a woman arrested for improperly wearing a hijab. These protests have empowered Iranian women to become more vocal and present on various social issues, leading to increased confidence in expressing their demands.

Advocacy and the Fight for Licensing Rights

Bethnaz Shafi, a prominent motorbike racer, has been advocating for women's right to ride motorcycles for over a decade. She has participated in international competitions and organized women's motorcycle events in Iraq to promote the sport among women. Shafi, who also taught Elmire Sali Nasab (a tattoo artist who uses a motorcycle for her work) how to ride, believes that social awareness has significantly changed, and more women will be riding motorcycles in the future. She notes a growing respect from men and a cultural shift towards women riding motorbikes.

Challenges and Dangers of Riding Without a License

Riding without a license poses significant risks for women. While Elmire Sali Nasab has not been stopped by the police, she expresses a constant sense of dread, stating, "If I get into an accident without a license and I'm at fault, it could be a crime and I could go to jail." The inability to obtain a license means women cannot take formal driving lessons, increasing the risk of accidents. Furthermore, without insurance, women face potential financial ruin in the event of an accident.

Political Obstacles and Government Stance

Shafi is actively lobbying the government and politicians for the right to obtain motorcycle licenses, emphasizing safety and equal application of the law. She argues that "Parliamentarians should look at what people want, not what they like or dislike."

Farzan Ardistani of the Tehran Bureau reports that the government claims to be considering issuing motorcycle licenses to women, with the vice president for women's affairs stating there is no existing law prohibiting it. However, the parliament is dominated by hardline conservatives who are hesitant to approve such measures, making it unlikely to pass if introduced.

Potential for Social Instability

Experts warn that the continued denial of this right could widen the gap between the government and the people, potentially leading to social instability. The outcome of this issue is seen as crucial, not only for the status and rights of women but also for the government's relationship with its citizens.

Conclusion

The increasing popularity of motorcycles in Iran, driven by economic hardship and traffic congestion, is creating a social dynamic where women are increasingly taking to two wheels. Despite legal prohibitions against women obtaining motorcycle licenses, a de facto tolerance exists, supported by evolving public opinion influenced by recent social activism. However, the lack of formal licensing subjects women to significant legal, safety, and financial risks. While the government expresses consideration, political opposition from hardline conservatives remains a major hurdle. The resolution of this issue is poised to have broader implications for women's rights and the stability of the government's relationship with the Iranian populace.