The Iranian government has withdrawn a controversial bill aimed at combating fake news after critics accused it of undermining Iran’s already limited freedom of expression.
Government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani announced the decision on 30 July, writing on social network X that the administration of reformist President Massoud Pezeshkian had decided to withdraw the bill “to preserve national unity.”
The bill, drafted by the government and the hardline judiciary, consists of 22 articles. It was submitted to parliament last week, where lawmakers – 205 – voted to fast-track it. Three abstained.
The bill, which critics have labelled a “chokehold bill”, has sparked a lively debate among politicians and civil society groups. Critics warn that vague phrases such as “violation of public opinion” and “content against state security” could be used as a pretext for large-scale arbitrary repression of press freedom and legitimate dissent.
Supporters of the bill, including many in government and ultra-conservatives, argue that it is vital for public safety and policing, especially given how quickly misinformation spreads online. They argue that the proposed measures are necessary to protect national security and maintain social stability.
If the bill becomes law, those who publish “fake news” could face up to 15 years in prison – a punishment that legal experts say is in some cases more severe than penalties for more serious offences such as espionage or kidnapping.
Iran regularly ranks lower in global press freedom indices, with Reporters Without Borders (RSF) calling it “one of the world’s most repressive countries in terms of press freedom” in its latest annual report. According to RSF, 21 journalists are currently behind bars in Iran.