A summary of Behrouz Afaq’s speech at the round table “Persian Media: Challenges and Prospects” during the third International Conference on Contemporary Iranian Studies – ICCI 2024 at Goethe University Frankfurt organized by Iran Academia University.
In his speech, Behrouz Afagh explores the historical and contemporary role of Persian-language media outside Iran, particularly during times of crisis. He highlights how these media outlets have long played a significant role in shaping Iranian political discourse, dating back to the Constitutional Revolution, and emphasizes that their existence is not merely a product of the Islamic Republic but has deep historical roots.
He acknowledges the widespread distrust toward foreign-based media within Iran, yet points out that these outlets fill a critical gap left by domestic media, which lacks freedom and independence.
Afagh notes that, especially during significant events like the 2009 Green Movement and the Mahsa Amini protests, many Iranians turned to external media for reliable news and representation of marginalized voices that the state media ignored.
These media platforms have also provided a broader platform for women and various minority groups, offering perspectives and experiences absent in Iran’s state-controlled media.
Despite their accomplishments, Afagh criticizes Persian-language media abroad for contributing to societal polarization. He argues that instead of fostering constructive dialogue, many outlets have exacerbated social divisions and frustrations by focusing on sensationalism, conflict, and reinforcing pre-existing biases.
He observes that some media have blurred the lines between political activism and journalism, resulting in biased reporting that could mislead audiences. This trend, according to Afagh, contributed to heightened expectations during the Mahsa Amini protests, leading to disappointment and further disillusionment.
Afagh stresses that the role of media should extend beyond merely reporting on events or amplifying grievances. He advocates for a media landscape that fosters national dialogue and encourages cooperation among Iranians from diverse backgrounds.
Such a dialogue, he argues, is essential to envision and construct a hopeful, unified future for Iran, particularly as the country navigates the complex process of transitioning from the current regime. Afagh believes the media can help shape this conversation by providing a space for intellectual exchange, promoting shared values, and discussing practical solutions for rebuilding the country.
He also touches on the global trend of “post-truth,” where facts become secondary to personal beliefs and emotions. In this context, Afagh urges Persian-language media to remain committed to truth and journalistic ethics, avoiding the temptation to follow the populist, emotionally charged waves of misinformation that dominate much of today’s media landscape.
In conclusion, Afagh calls for media outlets that are ethical, constructive, and forward-looking. He encourages them to reflect the creativity, diversity, and resilience of Iranian culture, helping Iranians rediscover hope and agency in shaping their future. Media, he insists, should play a pivotal role in fostering national unity, rebuilding trust, and encouraging collective problem-solving during this critical period in Iran’s history.
