Understanding the characteristics of broadcast media policy in Iran: A thematic policy analysis

Abstract

This article aims to explore the characteristics of broadcasting media policy in Iran. Ratified laws and regulatory documents concerning broadcast media in Iran are collected and analysed using qualitative content analysis and thematic coding. The results indicate that rigid state ownership, promoting political and cultural discourses, unification, using state-secured budgets, focussing on mass audience and developing air broadcasting technology have been the core themes of the broadcast media policy paradigm in Iran in the past four decades. In the given time horizon, the Iranian government has always reinforced regulatory policies for broadcast media to impose limitations on possible broadcasting activities of individuals, groups and commercial parties.