If You Can’t Beat ‘em… Segregate From ‘em

In Iran, a trend is born. Recently, a women’s-only taxi service began and a women’s-only Internet cafe opened up, both in the country’s capital, Tehran. These businesses give women safe options and an “appropriate atmosphere” (according to an Iranian news agency) to join the world without the male hassle-factor.

Unrelated men and women are not allowed to mix in public based on a 1979 Iranian law. As a result, Internet cafes and other public facilities are often men-only. The law is aimed at “protecting” women not restricting their rights, according to Iranian officials. Hmph.

To join the 21st century without mingling with the men, the first female-only Internet cafe recently opened in Tehran and will give women the opportunity to both learn and socialize online (even with the opposite sex, oh my) as this bit of freedom is introduced into their lives.

The female-only taxi service, Ladies Safe Trips, opened for business late last year. The women drivers of this service must be married and wear uniforms. While there was a bit of hubbub on the Internet about this company back in December, I haven’t been able to find any recent information - wondering if it’s still open for business???

On the flip side of the equation, in April of this year, the Tehran police began a crackdown against women wearing improper hijab (the traditional head and body covering). This crackdown was implemented against the wishes of President Mamoud Ahmadinejad.

As a Westerner, it will be interesting to watch as these opposing worlds continue to intersect. Women will want to continue progressing into the 21st century while they are simultaneously being forced into obscurity through conservative clothing.

Happy Travels!