News Science Quarterly (NS)

News Science Quarterly (NS)

Investigative Journalism in the Digital Age; Challenges Facing Investigative Journalism in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Hatef Pourrashidi 1
Mehran Samadi 2
1 Corresponding author, Assistant Professor, Department of Communications, University of Religions & Denominations, Qom, Iran. E-mail: h.pourrashidi@urd.ac.ir
2 Assistant Professor, Department of Communications, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz, Iran E-mail: m_samadi@iaut.ac.ir
10.22034/lrsi.2024.478625.1251
Abstract
Objective: Investigative journalism has always faced challenges worldwide from governments, pressure groups, and mafia gangs. In Iran, there are numerous obstacles hindering activities in this field, primarily due to the underdeveloped state of free journalism in the country. The government has also failed to provide the necessary legal support for the advancement of investigative journalism, while economic hardships faced by journalists and media outlets have further impeded their ability to engage in such activities. Therefore, the aim of this article is to explore the challenges faced by investigative journalists in the digital age.
Method: To achieve this objective, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 communication professors and media activists using the qualitative content analysis method.
Findings: The results revealed that "financial and economic constraints and pressures," "restricted access to information," "lack of a clear definition of investigative journalism," and "technological challenges and the proliferation of fake news" are key challenges faced by investigative journalists in Iran. Additionally, issues such as "declining public trust," "political, legal, and social obstacles," "inadequate training for investigative journalists," and "ethical dilemmas" were identified as other significant challenges.
Conclusion: The challenges encountered by investigative journalists in Iran mirror those faced in many other countries, with economic hardships and media-related issues posing significant barriers to the practice of investigative journalism. It is imperative for media organizations, associations, unions, and government bodies to take proactive steps in legislating and supporting investigative journalists. By doing so, investigative journalism can serve as a vital tool in combating corruption and promoting transparency.
Keywords
Investigative Journalism
Investigative Journalism in Iran
Corruption
Digital Age
 
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