The Iranian chess player Sara Khadem made headlines in early 2023 when she was exiled from her home country after removing her hijab during an international tournament. Khadem, who is one of Iran’s top female chess players, said that wearing the headscarf during the competition felt “wrong” and “restrictive.”
Khadem’s decision to remove the hijab during the tournament in southern France was seen as an act of defiance against Iran’s strict dress codes for women. In Iran, it is mandatory for women to wear the hijab in public spaces, including sports arenas.
Following her actions, Khadem was informed by the Iranian Chess Federation that she was no longer welcome to represent her country in any international tournaments. In addition to being exiled, she has also faced backlash from conservative Iranians, who accused her of being unpatriotic.
Khadem’s case has drawn international attention, with many human rights organizations and chess players expressing their support for her decision to remove the hijab. They argue that women should be allowed to wear what they want, especially during sports competitions, where they should be free to focus on their performance rather than their clothing.
The incident highlights the ongoing debate in Iran over women’s rights and the country’s conservative dress codes. While some Iranians defend the hijab as a symbol of modesty and piety, others argue that it is a tool of oppression that restricts women’s freedom.
Khadem’s exile has also raised concerns about the future of chess in Iran, as many female players have already left the country due to the restrictive dress codes. Without the support of the government and the chess federation, it may become even more difficult for Iranian players to compete internationally.
Despite the challenges she has faced, Khadem remains optimistic about her future in chess. She has expressed her gratitude for the support she has received from the international chess community and hopes that her actions will inspire other Iranian women to stand up for their rights.