Iran Increases Funding for State Broadcasting Amid Economic Struggles

As Iran approaches the start of the new Persian year on March 21, the government has announced a significant increase in funding for its state broadcaster, the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). The budget will rise by approximately 50%, bringing the total allocation to EUR35 million (around $36 million). This decision comes despite the country grappling with an ongoing economic crisis characterized by soaring inflation and a declining standard of living for its citizens.

Data from the parliamentary research center reveals that the funding for IRIB will surpass the combined budgets of ten government ministries, highlighting the regime's focus on media control. Under Iranian law, all media outlets are state-controlled, with private entities not permitted to operate within the country. The head of the broadcaster is appointed directly by the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has openly criticized IRIB's inability to compete with foreign Persian-language media.

Despite the substantial financial backing, IRIB is experiencing a crisis of viewership. Recent surveys conducted by the Iranian Students Polling Agency indicate that only 12.5% of the population relies on IRIB for news, a stark decline from 51% in 2017. This drop in public trust reflects a broader trend of disillusionment with state-sponsored media, as many Iranians turn to alternative sources for information.

As younger demographics increasingly disengage from IRIB, the state broadcaster's audience for its cultural and entertainment programming has also dwindled. Currently, only 11.5% of Iranians reportedly find IRIB's films and series appealing. In contrast, privately funded productions are gaining traction and are often distributed through digital platforms or DVDs, circumventing state censorship.

Film critic Mahshid Zamani noted the dual role of cinema as both a tool for state propaganda and a means for dissent. Independent filmmakers risk their safety to produce works that challenge state narratives, such as the recent film 'My Favorite Cake,' which faced backlash from authorities for its content. The filmmakers and lead actress are now facing charges related to producing materials deemed offensive by the state.

IRIB's ongoing financial support is part of a long-standing government strategy to promote ideologies aligned with the Islamic Republic's values. State funding extends beyond broadcasting to include various news agencies and cultural institutions, all working to reinforce governmental narratives. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of this strategy is increasingly questioned, as evident in the persistent protests against the regime and the broadcaster's declining viewership.

While IRIB's director claims that over 41% of the population still engages with its programming, external evidence suggests a stark contrast. The organization's inability to attract viewers, particularly among a youth population that overwhelmingly prefers online media, underscores a disconnect between government messaging and public sentiment.