Iran seeks to criminalize contacts with foreign media

Iran is advancing a bill that would significantly restrict citizens' contacts with foreign media, embassies, and organizations. Interviews or other communication with certain foreign media could carry penalties ranging from six months to two years in prison.

Iran's parliament has already approved the general provisions of a bill to counter the "infiltration" of foreign intelligence services, governments, and institutions. The document was supported by 183 of 290 deputies. Certain provisions still need further review, so the law has not yet taken effect.

The bill prohibits interviews, participation in discussions, and other contacts with media that Iranian authorities consider American, Israeli, or funded by the US or Israel.

The restrictions would also apply to contacts with other foreign media. Additionally, cooperation with foreign embassies, universities, research institutions, and international organizations is planned to be limited without appropriate approvals.

Human rights advocates warn that the broad wording of the norms could affect not only journalists but also academics, researchers, civic activists, and ordinary citizens. The Center for Human Rights in Iran believes that the new rules would effectively allow ordinary international cooperation to be interpreted as a threat to state security.

The discussion of new restrictions comes amid increased pressure on independent journalists. In particular, Iranian photojournalist Yalda Moayeri was recently sentenced to 15 years in prison on charges related to her professional activity and alleged assistance to foreign adversaries of the country.

Iran has previously limited cooperation with foreign broadcasters such as BBC Persian, VOA Persian, and Iran International. The new bill significantly expands the range of potentially punishable contacts.

Based on materials from: The Guardian, Radio Farda