Payman Issues a Genuine Apology for Controversial Remarks Regarding Women in Iran
Senator Fatima Payman from Western Australia has acknowledged that her recent comments did not accurately represent the experiences of women who have suffered.
Apologizing for her remarks on women in Iran, Payman clarified that she was conveying the viewpoints of attendees at a pro-Iran conference and not expressing her own beliefs.
She also mentioned that Australians are often exposed to “propaganda” about Iran.
Payman explained, “Iran is an incredible place that allows women to participate in the workforce and ensures that their voices are heard.”
She added, “There are realities that we are not aware of while living here and listening to the one-sided propaganda from specific organizations with their own agenda.”
Payman’s family fled from Afghanistan to Pakistan and eventually settled in Australia to escape the Taliban.
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Her comments faced criticism from human rights advocates in Australia and internationally, highlighting Iran’s well-documented history of mistreatment towards women.
One such woman, Australian academic Kylie Moore-Gilbert, had visited Iran for a conference and ended up being imprisoned for over 800 days due to her partner’s nationality.
On February 27, Payman issued an apology for her statements at the Benevolent Iranian Women’s Association event.
She said, “At the event, I heard from Australian Iranian women sharing their positive experiences of life in Iran.”
She clarified, “In my interview with Press TV, I conveyed what these women shared, not my personal beliefs.”
She expressed remorse for not recognizing the hardships some women go through.
Payman acknowledged, “I understand that my remarks did not accurately portray the struggles of women who have faced violence and human rights abuses.”
She added, “I never intended to diminish their pain, and if my words caused harm, I apologize sincerely.”
Furthermore, Payman emphasized that she has consistently condemned injustices and human rights violations.
Women’s Rights in Iran
Iran enforces strict dress codes for women under Islamic sharia law, requiring them to wear head coverings and loose clothing.
In 2024, Human Rights Watch documented Iran’s implementation of new regulations and penalties for women’s attire.
Under these rules, women who do not comply could face fines, imprisonment, and restrictions on education and employment.
The laws also impose harsher penalties against activism challenging the dress code.
Any attire considered socially inappropriate can lead to a 10-year prison sentence, equivalent to nudity.
