Under New Iran Laws, Ads Showing Women Eating Pizza Cannot Be Shown

Iran women ads: Iran is witnessing the introduction of some bizarre advertising rules that have overtones of sexism, as per reports. For instance, women will reportedly no longer be allowed representation in pizza ads that show them enjoying the dish. They will also not be permitted to hold red-coloured drinks or wear leather gloves in ad films.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) will henceforth exercise reviews and clearances for ad films, deciding what airs. As per Iran Wire, a local media site, head of PR at IRIB Amir Hossein Shamshadi said these new laws come following a recent "audit."

The broadcasting body has been under fire of late for tightening censorship on screen in Iran. Freedom of the press and speech is also reported to be extremely compromised and experts indicate this could further push women behind closed doors in an already conservative society.

Iran Women Ads Under Scrutiny: Sexism To Strengthen?

Reports suggest the ad laws offer specific restrictions on broadcasting, such as disallowing women in workplaces to be served tea by their male colleagues. Or not being allowed to eat a sandwich for the camera. State-controlled media guiding the narrative is reported to be reinforcing dated patriarchal norms that will prevent women from representation and equality.

The regime, under current Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei, is on the brink of passing a bill that could threaten digital freedoms in Iran. The Protection Bill, as the proposal is called, will transfer all internet power and regulation to the ruling authorities. Human rights organisations have urged the Parliament in Iran to reconsider the passing of the bill, which will withdraw the privacy and digital safety of Iranians.

Recently, a letter from Iranian authorities leaked online stated that women with positive pregnancy tests were to be connected to labs and clinics to prevent abortions. The letter caused an uproar on social media, with users highlighting Iranian women's plight of having very little agency over their bodies.

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