The Islamic Republic of Iran’s use of artificial intelligence to crack down on its populace is having a particular impact on the freedoms of Iranian women.
The regime likely used AI during 2022 protests after the death of Mahsa Amini, who was beaten after being arrested by morality police for wearing her hijab too loosely. As head of the United Nations’ fact-finding mission into Iran’s 2022 protests, Sara Hossain determined the Iranian regime did use AI to monitor social media platforms during protests, Iran Wire reported. In October 2023, the U.S.
Taleblu suggested additional methods for controlling access to tech that could 'bolster Iran’s digital or cyber repressive apparatus.' He recommends the U.S. work with European firms to increase export controls and keep close track of new Chinese tech subsidiaries operating in Iran. By consistently exposing and sanctioning new firms, the U.S. 'increases their transaction costs.