On December 17, 2002, the reformist parliament of Iran passed a law that legalizes the use of satellite dishes for receiving television programs from satellites. The previous ban on satellite dishes was largely opposed and ignored by the Iranian public, with few adhering to it. Under the new bill, the broadcasting of certain foreign television channels deemed permissible by the government will be allowed. Most programs broadcast by the Islamic Republic's television are religious and educational. The bill to lift the ban on satellite dishes must be approved by the Guardian Council, which often rejects bills it deems contrary to Islam. One parliament member supporting the new bill stated that the previous ban on satellite dishes was not beneficial at all. He mentioned that over three million satellite dishes are in use in Iran, and the police have only managed to confiscate a few of them. Conservative opponents of the freedom to access foreign television fear that Western culture will infiltrate Iranian society. They argue that better television programs should be produced in Iran.
Bill to Lift Ban on Satellite Dishes in Iran
The Iranian reformist parliament has passed a bill to legalize satellite dishes, which were previously banned and widely ignored. This change allows for the broadcasting of certain foreign channels, amidst concerns from conservatives about Western cultural influence. The bill still requires approval from the Guardian Council.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The Iranian reformist parliament has passed a bill to legalize the use of satellite dishes, allowing for the broadcasting of certain foreign television channels. This move comes despite significant conservative opposition and a history of public disregard for the previous ban.
- Over three million satellite dishes are currently in use in Iran, despite the previous ban.
- The bill must still be approved by the Guardian Council, which has a history of rejecting reforms.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Satellite dishes have been a contentious issue in Iran, symbolizing the struggle between modernity and traditional values. The previous ban was widely ignored, indicating a public desire for more access to foreign media.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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