Iran at UNHRC outlines efforts to promote free speech, information access
Speaking at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on Saturday, the deputy minister for media affairs at Iran’s Ministry of Culture and Islamic Guidance delivered a detailed report on the country’s efforts at promoting freedom of expression and information access as a fundamental human right.
Mohammadreza Norouzpour stressed that the efforts by the Islamic Republic to guarantee freedom of expression and information have been significant and “far exceed some alleged shortcomings.”
“These endeavors reflect Iran’s commitment to fostering a transparent, just, and inclusive environment where the rights and dignity of all members of society are respected and existing gaps are minimized,” he said.
Norouzpour specifically cited initiatives aimed at designing 21 educational programs to utilize artificial intelligence in media, granting direct and indirect subsidies to active media organizations promoting people-centric culture, ensuring access to high-speed Internet in under-privileged and rural areas, and establishing a system for publishing and maintaining open access to information.
The deputy minister also called attention to the fact that Iran has also recently lifted restrictions on access to commonly-used digital platforms such as WhatsApp and Google Play, while also supporting the development of new communication platforms.