Society without art meaningless: Minister
Iran’s Minister of Interior, Eskandar Momeni, emphasized the vital role of arts in society during a recent gathering with personalities of various artistic guilds and prominent artists.
Speaking candidly at the meeting, Momeni said, “A society without art is meaningless. For example, we read about history in books and writings, but when it is turned into a film or series, the life of that historical figure or national hero becomes immortal.”
Momeni outlined the ministry’s commitment to supporting the continuity of artistic activities, saying, “We are working to ensure that the Ministry of Interior continues to aid and stand by you in the field of the arts.”
The minister also stressed the ongoing efforts to expand the ministry’s focus beyond its traditionally known political and security roles. “The Ministry of Interior is typically recognized more for its political and security aspects, with its economic and social dimensions often overlooked. Our new approach is to focus more on the social and economic aspects of the ministry.”
Addressing the importance of handling social issues effectively, Momeni said that social phenomena should not be treated as security issues. “We should address social issues through the appropriate mechanisms,” he said.
The senior official also pointed to the country’s Social Affairs Organization, which operates under the Ministry of Interior, as having adopted a new approach to support artists. “This year, the organization supported two films at the Fajr Film Festival,” he noted.
Momeni acknowledged the significant impact of collaborative efforts between the media and artists. “Targeted and joint actions with the media and artists have the most influence on changing behavior. We will continue these meetings with you, the artists,” he added.
Mohammad Bathaei, Deputy Minister of Interior and Head of the Social Affairs Organization, also spoke at the gathering.
He highlighted a recent meeting with sociologists where various pressing societal issues were openly discussed. Bathaei affirmed that these discussions would continue in the future, adding, “In the social realm, to increase joy and hope, your art is needed.”
Batthaei underscored the crucial role of arts, emphasizing that “the entry of art and the prioritization of artistic productions can help solve the problems we are currently facing in society.”
Topics of discussion during the meeting included mutual understanding between artists and officials, defining common national interests and security, the value of critical and constructive perspectives in cinema, the status of artistic guilds, and the necessity of cooperation between provincial governments and the House of Cinema.