Iran continues to barricade itself

Iran’s parliament has approved a legislative proposal aimed at imposing new restrictions on interactions with foreign institutions, media, and organizations, signaling a continued effort to limit external influence within the country. The draft law, currently undergoing the legislative process, comprises 19 articles focused on curbing activities by foreign intelligence agencies, governments, and other entities operating in Iran. Supporters argue that while espionage is already prosecutable under existing laws, there is a lack of clear legal framework to address broader foreign influences. The proposed legislation seeks to establish a legal basis for combating what authorities describe as extensive foreign interference. However, critics warn that the vague definitions within the bill could lead to misuse against political opponents and human rights activists. According to Sina Yousefi, an Iranian lawyer living in Germany, the distinction between permissible and prohibited contacts is not clearly defined in the law. This ambiguity leaves the interpretation of these boundaries to security agencies and courts, potentially creating an environment of fear and uncertainty among citizens. Yousefi highlighted concerns over the potential consequences of the bill, noting that if individuals are unsure whether engaging with foreign media, collaborating with international universities, or exchanging information might later be deemed criminal, this could generate widespread anxiety. Moein Khazaeli, an Iranian legal expert residing in Sweden, warned that the draft law could become another tool for suppressing dissent. He argued that nearly all actions classified as criminal under the proposal would not constitute actual crimes and thus should not warrant criminal prosecution. Parviz Yari, a journalist with the organization Defending Free Flow of Information (DeFFI), explained that if enacted, the law could hinder access to information for independent media and international organizations. The government's goal, he suggested, is to enhance the reach of its propaganda apparatus. Despite efforts by the Islamic Republic to restrict freedom of expression through various means, social networks, media, and human rights groups outside Iran have reduced the impact of state-controlled media on public opinion. Yari emphasized that the effects on journalists and researchers could be particularly severe. If the draft law is finalized, it would penalize a wide range of contacts with oppositional media and international organizations. Such measures aim to prevent interactions with journalists and researchers, strengthen the state’s monopoly on information, and intensify official manipulation of public perception. Under Article 5 of the draft, the approval of international academic exchanges will effectively depend on authorization from the Ministry of Intelligence. The ministry is required to publish annually a list of internationally recognized universities and institutions authorized by the state. Engaging with institutions not listed could result in legal penalties, including imprisonment. Additionally, foreign donations to Iranian non-governmental organizations (NGOs), associations, and political parties would require approval from a committee comprising ministries and security agencies. Yousefi expressed concern that the uncertainty created by the draft law could deter scientists, researchers, and civil society groups from participating in international collaborations. He noted that joint research with foreign universities, participation in international conferences, or collaboration with global organizations could face significant obstacles due to the stringent regulations outlined in the legislation. The implications of such restrictions extend beyond individual freedoms, potentially affecting the broader landscape of academic and scientific exchange in Iran.