Violation of human rights in Iran in various fields is undeniable. Thus, constant monitoring and reflecting on what is happening in the country is important, necessary and a priority.
Iranian media and the propaganda arm of the government distort the truth, publish lies, and censor the news related to fundamental human rights of the Iranian citizens. Independent publications and those not in line with the central power are subject to intimidation, arrests of staff members and outright bans. Self-censorship in publishing news related to the violations of human rights of the citizens of Iran by the media based in the country has been spreading. Thus, the need for the independent media to monitor and publish news related to the ruling religious dictatorship’s violations of human rights are necessary and of great importance.
There are many news agencies and other media that report on human rights violations in Iran based on their own political and ideological priorities; but I believe HRANA has been able to stay clear of those biases. With persistence and dedication and by tapping into its own special sources and knowledge bank, HRANA reports and publishes the true human rights situation in Iran.
HRANA’s efforts in this regard are notable and praiseworthy, especially after the electoral coup of 2009 and the violent and bloody repression that followed.
HRANA’s work has not been without mistakes and shortcomings, which in journalism, especially under the shadows of the dictatorship in Iran, are inevitable. But the increasing progress and improved quality of the work have been noticeable, making HRANA one of the important news resources regarding the violations of human rights in Iran.
In short, HRANA’s improved quality, increased quantity and speed in publishing news and feature articles, are what distinguish it from similar media outlets focusing on human rights.
Abu Said Abolkhayr, the famous fourth- and fifth-century mystic, said: “May god bless all who take a step forward.” From such a perspective, the founders and activists of HRANA deserve a “god bless” for their efforts.
