Trends and Requirements of the IRI Media Policy in the Field of Cyberspace

Media policies in Iran are often complex in such a way that overlapping dimensions can be imagined in these policies. In general, despite the need for independence of the media sphere (including cyberspace) this sphere is formed mainly under the influence of the government, and more media platforms reflect the will of governments. This article seeks to explain the media policies of the Islamic Republic of Iran that are applied in the field of cyberspace. In this regard, using critical process research, which is a good way to identify the current situation and envision the future of media policies in the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the theoretical approaches of Castells (network society: power and anti-power) and Friedman (biased and neutral policy), different aspects of media policies in the field of cyberspace and the approach of governments in controlling and dominating this field will be identified. Findings of the study indicate 13 components as the most basic media policy of the Islamic Republic of Iran. However, the need to look beyond the discourses of governments in these policies is palpable. In other words, in order to achieve an up-to-date policy that meets the needs and requirements of cyberspace, one must go beyond these discourses.