How did the "Women, Life, Freedom" Movement Begin?
Beginning on September 16, 2022, the “Women, Life, Freedom” (WLF) movement erupted in Iran as citizens protested the death of 22-year-old Mahsa (Jina) Amini, who died in the custody of Iran’s morality police. Amini was arrested for violating the country’s hijab laws, and her life became a catalyst for nationwide protests to end gender discrimination, state repression, and compulsory veiling.
The WLF movement grew beyond the wearing of the hijab, but it soon became a cause to protest personal freedoms, social justice, and women’s rights across the region.
In sum, Iran has been under IRGC rule since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Ever since 1980, Iranian women have experienced great discrimination regarding marriage, divorce, child custody, and public life.
That being said, girls can legally marry at 13, married women need their husband's consent to get a passport, and men can divorce easily.
The WLF movement dives into its ability to unite segments of Iranian society around the heavy demand for dignity and equality.
It has shed light on the women’s rights struggle in a nation ruled by a terrorist regime, yet it has been supported all over the world, as Western societies have protested the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.
The women of Iran face severe repression, but the world stands in solidarity with the women of Iran.
On the other hand, the IRGC responded to the 2022 protests.
Their crackdown led to the deaths of hundreds of civilians, including women and children, for protesting for change.
These have included dozens of state executions.
The retaliation by the IRGC is another example of the IRGC’s efforts to keep its power through lethal force by murdering its own citizens.
Overall, the “Women, Life, Freedom” movement stands strong as a symbol of hope and resilience for the change in how women live in Iran.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) Where does the slogan come from?
The slogan comes from the Kurdish freedom struggle: Jin, Jiyan, Azadi, before spreading into a nationwide chant across Iran in Persian, Kurdish, Azeri, and Balochi languages.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woman,_Life,_Freedom_movement
2) What are the core demands?
Participants in the Women, Life, Freedom movement demand the repeal of mandatory hijab laws, an end to state violence, systematic civil liberties, and a complete transition away from the oppressive policies of the IRGC.
3) Who participates in the movement?
Women, men, students, workers, and ethnic minorities inside Iran, as well as a network of international allies and diaspora communities.
Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZg4IrwMK6k&t=72
Why it matters
Iranian women are fighting for change regarding equality. They’re willing to risk their lives to speak up against a brutal regime and fight for equal rights.
Sources
- Hillel Neuer X Post, February 18, 2026
- "Women, Life, Freedom: A New Revolutionary Era in Iran" Vienna Institute for International Dialogue and Cooperation, Homa Bazafkan
- "Iran: Lives Cut Brutally Short: Victims of Crimes Against Humanity During Iran's 2022 Woman Life Freedom Uprising" September 16, 2026, Amnesty International
- "Investigating Violence Against Woman, Life, Freedom Protesters in Iran" Berkeley Human Rights Center
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