Statements of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution in Meeting with the President and Managers of the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting

In the Name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

We are very pleased that, thanks be to God, we have once again had the opportunity to serve you. If I had the chance to converse with each of you present here and hear your opinions—which I know are valuable in various fields—I would certainly do so. Unfortunately, our opportunities are limited; this is one of our deprivations that we cannot benefit from people like you. In the meeting a few months ago with your group at the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting, where many of you were present, we discussed generalities regarding the national media and the Broadcasting Organization; the issue of messaging, dissemination, and making it widespread, and that today we are in a full-scale propaganda battle in the world.

Today, we may delve into some issues in a more detailed manner. Of course, I apologize for the fact that you are sitting on the ground and may have sore feet and become tired; this is also one of our limitations. I wish you were comfortably seated in chairs, and we would not worry that you would tire if the meeting lasted longer. In any case, please bear with me.

The main issue is that we must recognize the position of our country and the Islamic Republic system in the human geography of the world and see where we stand in the very broad, diverse, and complex alignments that exist in the world. When this point is considered, the role of the national media in this context will become more prominent and clear.

I make an analogy: consider a city that is occupied or in the process of being occupied—let's say Basra or Kabul—a city where the military forces of the enemy or foreign powers have entered and occupied it, or are in the process of occupying it and advancing. The people in this city will logically be divided into several groups:

One group consists of those who have previously collaborated with the occupier; they now welcome him; they see some benefit for themselves in his arrival and cooperate with him. Let’s call these the traitors.

Another group consists of those who have not done this; they do not welcome him, but now that the enemy is coming or has come, they take advantage of the situation and go to get close to him and provide him assistance, hoping to receive some help, attention, or support from him. Let’s call this group the opportunists.

A group naturally lacks the disposition for such actions; they are either fearful, cowardly, or lack the necessary awareness; therefore, they remain in their homes and resign themselves to fate.

Another group is likely or logically those who are influenced by the occupier's propaganda; because the occupier, after all, has his own propaganda, distributes papers, turns on loudspeakers, and justifies his presence in some way. These individuals are influenced and say, "What harm is there in the presence of others?" Therefore, they too surrender in this manner.

A group, probably or we can say mostly, consists of those who resist. Their resistance stems from the fact that they know that occupation is against their interests; they understand what a disastrous loss the destruction of national identity means for a national collective; they know that when the occupier gains full control, he will show no mercy to anyone or anything; therefore, their love for their home and city drives them out of their houses and into resistance. Of course, some only defend their own homes; others have greater aspirations and defend their neighborhood or the entire city; naturally, this group becomes the main target of the enemy. The enemy mobilizes all its resources to eliminate this group from its path.

The matters we discuss are not imaginary; they are realities that have occurred almost throughout the world. We do not want to delve into very distant pasts in history; however, in the last one or two centuries, you have heard numerous accounts. In Asia, in Africa, in the Americas, and in present-day America, the same events occurred. As they say, the Redcoats—the British occupying soldiers—came and the country was under their control; some surrendered and cooperated with them, while others resisted—stories of George Washington and events you have likely read in history or novels or seen in films—and ultimately, they triumphed.

India's resistance against the British is similar; for ninety years—from 1857 to 1947—they fought and resisted the British. There too, some were collaborators, some acted peacefully, some stayed at home; but some fought and ultimately triumphed; Gandhi became the leader of the country; Jawaharlal Nehru became the powerful president of the independent government, and to this day, India is one of the proud countries in the world; a country with a billion population that is advancing and overcoming its problems one after another.

In World War II, this happened in Paris and Eastern Europe and Romania; it has occurred in many other places as well; it has frequently happened in Asia.

In the face of the dominant occupying force whose power is incomparable to that of the resistance force within the city or country, and the occupier is much stronger, nevertheless, the resistance, honor, and faith of that population prevail over the apparent power of the occupier, and they are the ones who win, not those few groups who were opportunistic and collaborated with the enemy; these will be among the first to be struck down.

The first blow of the occupier

A famous Romanian novelist—Zaharia Stancu—has a book; I do not know if you have read it or not. I read this book many years ago. The story relates to the occupation of Bucharest by the Germans. Some go to the forest and fight, and ultimately they triumph—of course, following Germany's defeat in the overall war—while some opportunistically collaborate with the occupier, and the occupier strikes the first blow against them. There is a story recounted there that I will never forget.

Repeating past events

This is a not-so-distant image that we all have before us. You can expand this image to the international level; it is an event that is currently happening. Now the Middle East region, or let’s say the Islamic region—the Middle East and North Africa—has the same status as that city which the enemy has occupied or is in the process of occupying.

The difference between traditional and modern occupation

Of course, this type of occupation differs from the traditional military occupation; it is a complete cultural, economic, and political domination; in some cases, it may even occur without the presence of the occupier, unless military presence or extraordinary presence is necessary; this is happening now. I mention the region because I do not want to elaborate on the matter; otherwise, if we go towards the farthest reaches of Asia or Latin America, the same issues exist there with varying degrees; however, I want to discuss the region that is particularly relevant to us and has a specific unity.

The power-hungry elite

Now the occupier—like the one who occupied Bucharest or Paris or any other country—is in the process of gradual occupation. Who is this occupier? The answer is not that this occupier is the government of the United States or some other government; no, this occupier is a social class; a class that guides the government of the United States and other governments to the extent of their ability and power and readiness. Of course, individuals from this class are undoubtedly present in the fabric and structure of these governments; however, the guidance is not that of a government; it is the guidance of a class structure, which if we want to give a specific name to them, we must say "the power-hungry elite." Their goal is to dominate the vital and financial resources of the entire world.

The requirements of global domination

Of course, this domination has political requirements, which is the new world order; it has scientific and administrative requirements that they are gradually approaching. The issue of globalization that is currently raised in trade, finance, culture, and cultural networks—such as the internet and the like—are all knowingly and unknowingly in the service of this class structure. Of course, the sociological analysis of these is very precise, detailed, and elaborate.

The resistance of the Islamic Republic

The Islamic Republic is that resistant group. Many have acted opportunistically; many have betrayed and collaborated with the enemy beforehand—we are referring to the regimes; for now, we are not addressing the nations—many have withdrawn and gone to the comfort of safety, thinking they can pass their lives; many have been deceived and accepted the slogans and words and propaganda. One group stands firm and knows that this domination is against their interests; they know that this domination will bring disaster and misery to them and the region; they know that if this domination is completed, for a hundred years—perhaps even longer—the vast human collective living in this region will be deprived of the caravan of knowledge, civilization, and happiness; they know that this is the beginning and corridor of an undefined colonialism.

New colonialism

Colonialism has been defined for us; new colonialism has also been defined in various books for us; however, colonialism was defined when many years had passed. New colonialism was also defined for us by sociologists of the world when many years had passed. The colonialism that is being discussed today is beyond new; it is completely new; a fresh colonialism that ensnares nations in its grip and does not allow them to move, and must be acted upon exactly according to the desires of that class structure. In this human realm—where billions of people are present—hunger, poverty, illiteracy, failure, and deprivation will exist at the highest levels. At the top, there will be the utmost success and domination of wealth and power; there will also be a moderate level that somehow manages to survive. This is the outlook and what is predicted at the end of this domination and control. Therefore, the proud, faithful, and capable group that stands against this event is Islamic Iran.

Resistance against domination and aggression

Of course, this is merely an analogy; that is, the Islamic Republic, as a system, along with the vast majority of the people, falls within this definition; however, in other places, the regimes are subject to this ruling; the people are often either unaware or have different sentiments; therefore, it is not about the people. Of course, in the arrangement and order of scientific discourse, these words acquire stronger meanings and clearer forms. Today, the situation of the Islamic Republic is this: standing firm against a comprehensive aggressive movement of domination.

Victory in all fields

This resistance is not just related to today; we have been standing firm for twenty-five years. I told Mr. Chavez that my belief is that in all the fields where they have clashed with us and confronted us, we have been victorious. Victory means one of two things; either we have prevailed and triumphed, or we have not allowed the opponent to succeed and have thwarted him. In all the experiences of the past twenty-five years, the situation has been as such.

I am full of hope

Today, when I look at ourselves, I am full of hope. I am familiar with the details of the country's issues and know the weaknesses and shortcomings and management deficiencies; however, in contrast, there are so many strengths and growth factors that I feel in many cases we only need a "In the Name of God" and a movement. Sometimes we fall short in these areas; we do not move or we move late; thus, phenomena arise; however, in all areas, we have the capability to act and move.

All horizons are open to us

We have a rich human resource of thinkers. There are many talents among us; in terms of managers and high-level management, we have experienced and trustworthy individuals. In terms of innovation and creativity, we have talented and courageous individuals. All these horizons are open to us; therefore, we have self-confidence, we have spirit, we feel we can. We can untie our knots; we can solve our economic problems; we can raise our clear voice with correct content everywhere; these are our capabilities. We must say "In the Name of God" and get up and get moving.

The media war

In this situation, what is the position of the national media? See how important the role of the national media becomes in such a situation. The other day, I said in that meeting, you know better than I do; today, the world war is a war of media. The advancement of the work and international policies of various agencies and different fronts is carried out through propaganda, news-making, conceptualization, and correct and incorrect explanations—meaning truth and lies. Propaganda is a pressing need for agencies that want to be active in the world, both before a military and economic movement, during it, and after it; therefore, they invest, consume thought, and employ knowledge to expand this.

We are the target of the enemy's attack

One of the very important tasks that is currently on their agenda is the news, propaganda, cultural, and moral assault on our country. Today, this assault is the peak of cultural aggression. Of course, it is not specific to our country; they are doing cultural work everywhere; however, we are the target of their goals. Many of the objectives of global arrogance in the fields of propaganda, culture, and media are directed at us; we must equip ourselves against these.

The dual role of the national media

Our media must both monitor and neutralize the enemy's actions inside, and it must also aim to strike the enemy in the public space. You see how important the national media's role is. In my opinion, all the efforts and works that are carried out in the country are, in a sense, one side; the work of the national media—meaning the Broadcasting Organization—is the other side. These are two currents; otherwise, if a lot of work is done, but the national media is not active, its impact will be much less than it should be. Therefore, the role of the media, as I have mentioned, is very important.

The central mission of the national media

We have a central mission for the national media, which has requirements and this central mission also carries major national objectives. In our view, that central mission is to manage and guide the thought, culture, spirit, and ethical behavior of society, to direct public thought and culture, to mitigate the damage to thought, culture, and ethics of society, to encourage progress—meaning to uplift the spirit—and to eliminate the feeling of backwardness.

Instilling a sense of backwardness

Today, one of the enemy's important tactics is to inject and instill a sense of backwardness and incapacity. We have thirty-five million youth in the country. No; they should know that we are by no means lagging behind. The other day, the President told me—of course, it was not a public report; I have many reports myself—the collection of our achievements in the last ten or twenty years is higher than all that has occurred in countries similar to ours—including all the countries in the region. This is a very important issue. Of course, the reports that have been given to me confirm this as well. Regarding one of the countries that he mentioned, only one case was raised as a question and ambiguity for me, which was to be investigated and reported back to me. We must not have this feeling at all, and our youth must not feel that they are lagging behind; they must feel that they are moving, racing, and advancing; they must be encouraged to this work, to this progress, to this racing, and to this forward movement.

The requirements of the national media's mission

This mission has requirements. If the national media wants to be the most important cultural tool in the country and fulfill this task, it must provide these things within itself: be trustworthy to the system, be trusted by the people, and possess competitive advantages. Today, our competitors are many; both regional competitors and international competitors. We must equip ourselves with competitive advantages against these competitors. High capacity in both quantity and quality of products is considered in both cases. Quantity should not overshadow quality, and vice versa.

An effective media arrangement

Another requirement of this mission is to have an effective media arrangement at the provincial, national, and international levels; this point that Mr. Darghami mentioned and said that in some places they cannot enjoy even the least of their rights; meaning hearing the voice of the revolution and seeing the face of the revolution. Here, our arrangement is weak. Of course, many of these weaknesses relate to outside the organization, which is another subject and must be pursued seriously.

Our organizational and media arrangement must be such that we can cover the entire country in all dimensions. This arrangement must be effective; it must have the flexibility to adapt to various and unforeseen conditions; it must have the ability, speed, and agility to deal with various issues; it must be able to take its position and be effective.

If these things are realized—which each of these has conditions and prerequisites and these prerequisites must be provided and realized—then you will be able to fully manage and guide public opinion in terms of culture, ethics, behavior, spirit, and similar matters; no one can compete with you in this regard.

The major objectives of the national media

What are our major objectives in this regard? First, to enhance religious knowledge in a discerning manner. I emphasize the term "discerning." Religious knowledge must be elevated and expanded; however, it must be discerning and conscious knowledge.

Second, sincere religious behavior. Again, I want to emphasize the word "sincere." Religious behaviors can be hypocritical, artificial, and superficial; they can be sincere. We must lead the people to religious behavior—meaning righteous action—and this action must be sincerely issued from them.

Third, to root the understanding and belief in the values and foundations of the thought of the revolution and the Islamic system. It is not enough to merely repeat slogans and clichés regarding the revolution and the system; a true belief in these slogans must be instilled in the people; this is the task of the national media.

Fourth, to protect the minds of society from the destructive effects of the enemy's cultural and value aggression, as mentioned.

Fifth, to instill belief in the effectiveness of the system.

Sixth, to create public convergence and a space of cooperation, affection, and unity within the country and among the people. The spirit of affection, unity, convergence, and connection among the people must be strengthened.

Seventh, to raise awareness regarding sensitive issues; such as science. The issue of science in the country is very important. With careful and comprehensive study, one reaches a few limited headings, one of which is science. We need science for the future. The software movement and the production of knowledge and thought that has been raised must be taken seriously. Fortunately, the grounds are completely ready, and the reception is very good. Make the people sensitive to the issues of science, security, nurturing elites, national power, and constructive and progressive work and similar topics.

Planning and creating a vision

How long is this mission and these major objectives supposed to be realized? I believe that we must plan and create a vision and prepare for a movement whose objectives are these. These objectives may be realized over the course of ten years; there is no harm in that. For this work, ten years is not a long time; it passes in the blink of an eye. Sometimes a person does not carry out the necessary efforts and planned activities in ten years, eight years, or five years; then when they reach the end of the period, they see their hands are empty. If planning is done, a person will observe progress with their own eyes; like the growth of a tree.

Here, I will mention a few important headings to clarify the relationship of the media with these topics. It is good to consider the relationship of the media with these topics:

1- The Broadcasting Organization and public ethics

The true identity of society is its moral identity; that is, the main structure for a community is its moral framework, and everything revolves around it. We must give great importance to ethics. The Broadcasting Organization must plan in the field of nurturing, expanding, and elucidating moral virtues; one of the objectives of the Broadcasting Organization in all programs must be this.

The ethical behaviors of individuals in society; such as social discipline, work ethic, order and planning, social etiquette, attention to family, respecting the rights of others—that others have rights and those rights must be respected, is one of the very important virtues—human dignity, a sense of responsibility, national self-confidence, personal courage and national courage, contentment—one of the most important moral virtues for a country is contentment, and if today we are suffering in some areas, it is because we have forgotten this important moral virtue of Islam—trustworthiness, honesty, justice-seeking, beauty-seeking—one of the good virtues is beauty-seeking; that is, being in pursuit of beauty, making life beautiful; both the outward appearance of life and the inner essence of life; the family environment, the outside environment, the street environment, the park environment, and the city environment—negating consumerism, chastity, respect, and etiquette towards parents and teachers.

These are our moral virtues. The Broadcasting Organization must take it upon itself to expand these virtues. In every program you create, in every television series, in every dialogue, in every roundtable, in every phone conversation, and in every report, be mindful that these virtues are strengthened; these things should not be violated or trampled upon.

2- The Broadcasting Organization and religion

Regarding the religion of the people, what role, position, and responsibility does the Broadcasting Organization have? Naturally, one of the duties of the Broadcasting Organization is to enhance religious knowledge and faith. Knowledge and faith are different. Both the faith of the people must be strengthened, and their knowledge and understanding must be enhanced. It must be noted that the faith that people acquire should not be weak, superficial, or superficial; we must strongly avoid this. It should not be limited to inflating people's feelings and excessive formalities. Emphasizing these things excessively is not beneficial at all and does not constitute the promotion of religion. Establish this as the foundation of your work and then return to the religious programs of the Broadcasting Organization; see what you should do and what you should not do.

Religious programs must be free of doubts, not create doubts. Sometimes I listen to some religious statements from television or radio and see that they create doubts! A weak hadith, an unreasonable statement, something that is good to say in the presence of, say, twenty or fifty devoted believers, when said to millions of people, does nothing but weaken the faith of some and create doubts in their minds; it has no other benefit. We must avoid such things. Religious expression and elucidation must be doubt-free, clear, strong, artistic, and diverse; it must not be doubt-creating and clichéd. Religious expression must be correct at all levels. It is true that we have religious elucidation at the level of elites, at the average level, at the lower level, and at the level of children, but whatever is at the level of children must absolutely be correct. When you teach a child in the first grade that two plus two equals four, when the child reaches the pinnacle of mathematics and mathematical knowledge, two plus two still equals four; it does not change. Therefore, what we explain to a child or an ordinary person regarding religion must absolutely not be incorrect so that later, in enhancing religious knowledge, they see that the statement was incorrect; no, it must be said correctly; however, simply. Therefore, religious statements at all levels must be correct.

For religious ceremonies, holidays, and mourning programs, intelligent planning must be done. Some of the programs that are executed are completely unwise. What kind of discussion do you have about Imam Jawad on television or radio? Regarding Imam Jawad, Imam Hadi, Imam Askari, Imam Reza, and other Imams, very good materials have been written. I have spent my life in these areas, and when I look at these materials, I benefit and enjoy; why are these not utilized? There are many good writings, good research, and eloquent and faith-inspiring materials in these areas. Sometimes one sees a program where someone speaks with great emphasis and in the form of a literary piece, supposedly about Imam Musa ibn Ja'far, which has no meaning. Such programs neither increase anyone's faith nor provide enjoyment, nor is the true art of writing employed in them. Why do we broadcast these programs? Someone with a soft and gentle voice— you are specialists in these matters; not every voice is suitable for every program—should instead convey a few virtues with correct and logical evidence from Imam Musa ibn Ja'far and explain the life of that great figure; a person listens, enjoys, and their knowledge and love increase, and their heart is illuminated by hearing the merits of these great figures. If religious programs are well presented, they are beneficial; however, if poorly presented, they are not neutral; they have negative results; like the story of that bad-sounding muezzin.

Molavi says: The daughter of a Christian man fell deeply in love with Islam and became enamored with Islamic teachings. This Christian man was very upset. In that city, there were some Christians and some Muslims. That city had both a mosque and a church. One day, this Christian man came to the muezzin and after showing him great respect, even giving him money and gifts, said, "Thank you very much." The muezzin was surprised at what he was being thanked for. The Christian man said, "You saved me; because my daughter became enamored with Islam; but one day when she heard your call to prayer, she said, 'I do not want this Islam!'

If we call the adhan poorly, we drive lovers of Islam away from Islam. We must call the adhan well and beautifully. Our adhan is the same teachings that we convey; it is our national media.

3- The Broadcasting Organization and the management of the country

In my opinion, the overall policy of the Broadcasting Organization should be to strengthen the executive management of the country. I do not recommend that the Broadcasting Organization conceal weaknesses, deficiencies, and, God forbid, betrayals; no, it should also address the weaknesses; the pains that are in front of the people's eyes, it is not a problem for the Broadcasting Organization to address them; however, the presentation of these pains and weaknesses must be such that, first, it does not discourage the people, and second, it does not weaken management.

Present the successes of the government. Showing the successes and advancements of the country does not necessarily have to come from the mouths of officials and those in charge. For example, when the President goes and inaugurates a project, this inauguration is vague and unclear. When a street's asphalt is damaged and you want to report it, for instance, you go and interview a taxi driver, and he says, "My car's wheel fell into this pothole;" another one says, "In winter, water collected here and spilled onto people's clothes." In summary, you interview ten people to show how bad this pothole is. So, regarding advancements and successes, take the microphone in front of those who benefit and enjoy from these advancements. Merely having the relevant manager come and say, "In launching this project, we created jobs for five hundred, a thousand, or five thousand people," is not enough; the subject must be elucidated.

Our goal must be to strengthen the executive management of the country. I have said and repeat: weaknesses and deficiencies must also be mentioned so that the people do not think this is a trumpet that intends only to praise the government; however, the presentation of problems must be constructive and compassionate, not confrontational. Presenting problems incorrectly is harmful. Raising questions that have no answers is harmful. Of course, sometimes very clever tactics are employed. Just a few days ago, I saw that after the meeting of the heads of the three branches, they interviewed them regarding economic corruption. They had produced a very nice, clean, comprehensive, and intelligent work; it was good and actually had an impact. One enjoys such works. Very well, now they are pursuing the same work you are doing; these should also be reflected in some way. Of course, you can guide the managers with the same method of presentation. Sometimes managers do not realize the deficiencies in their work. Presenting the shortcomings of their work from your fair and impartial perspective can help them.

4- The Broadcasting Organization and science

I mentioned that science is a very important issue. Today, when a person looks at the various paths for the advancement of the country, they see that all lead to science. May God's curse be upon those who have prevented the country from scientific advancement for decades. When scientific advancement exists, technological advancement comes with it, and technological advancement also revitalizes the country and brings vitality to society. If there is no science, there is nothing; and if there is technology, it is borrowed and false technology taken from others; like the assembly industries that exist. Science must be cultivated. In my opinion, the media can play a role in the movement of producing knowledge and thought and theory and ideas in various fields—whether in technical fields or in humanistic and other areas. You can pursue the production line of knowledge and thought and theory in a planned manner; you can promote logical and useful discussions; you can make innovation forums televised and introduce good innovative scientific figures.

May God have mercy on Mr. Ahmad Birashk—I do not know if you are familiar with him or not—he was an interesting old man. We saw his old age and understood it; although we were familiar with his name and books since childhood. The old man was active and hardworking even at ninety-something years old. I liked him very much. He had met with me. Among the things I saw in this old man that I enjoyed very much was that a few years ago, the television interviewed him on an occasion, and the reporter asked him to give advice to the youth. This old man, like a young man, advised the youth to study and learn science. I was very happy. I said, "Please thank Mr. Ahmad Birashk on my behalf for that two-word advice." See, a sentence from a committed old man who believes in science and scientific advancement and the dynamism of youth can have a significant impact. In my opinion, you are not at all neutral regarding the issue of science; it is one of your important responsibilities to pursue the issue of science.

5- The Broadcasting Organization and entertainment and recreation

One of the very important issues and certainly one of the necessities of society is smiles. A smile is one of the needs of human life. A life without joy and smiles is a hellish life. A heavenly life is a life with smiles. Imam Ali said: "The believer's joy is on his face and his sorrow is in his heart"; if you have sorrow, you should keep it in your heart; this is how a believer is. Smiling and the joy of a believer should be on their face. Faces must be cheerful. If you can bring joy to society with your face, you should do so. Joy is necessary and must be provided for the people; however, this requires planning. Of course, you have planned. The things I am saying as "must" do not mean that you have not done them. You have done many good and significant works, and I want to emphasize the continuation of them. Be careful that joy in the people does not accompany silliness, triviality, and lack of restraint; joy should not be provided to the people through these means. Joy can be provided to the people in various ways; it should be the correct type of joy. Sometimes a joke or a timely expression can make the audience happy; sometimes, a silly person with various antics may not be able to create that kind of joy. Making people happy and giving joy to the people does not mean being silly. One of the gentlemen who sometimes speaks and has good interviews and talks—I have listened sometimes—does not joke at all; however, his expressions and the quality of his speech are such that sometimes one involuntarily smiles; this is good.

High-quality and prominent humor is one of the arts. Humor is a very great art. I used to joke with the late Saberi and say, "The witty ones!"

Strengthen the true wits, nurture them, and help them bring humor. Humor means an important serious matter expressed in a humorous way; there is content and meaning in it, but it is expressed in a humorous language.

Among the entertainments are competitions. Competitions are good; however, care must be taken regarding the negative teachings in them, both in language and in behavior, and sometimes in unnecessary laughter, triviality is observed; and of course, sometimes these things are not present.

One of the competitions is the telephone competition. A person calls and is given a prize for nothing! One day I saw in a television program that five million tomans were awarded to someone for answering a few questions! This entertainment is not very interesting. Five million tomans is approximately the salary of two or three years of an average employee. They may say this promotes science. Promote science in a better way; this method is harmful. Some people who watch such competitions develop illogical thinking and take advantage of this illogicality. This method does not make sense that, for example, I know whether the Gospel is in Arabic, Greek, or Latin; then they say, "Now that you know, this five hundred thousand tomans or that amount is yours!" This method makes no sense. Therefore, the issue of entertainment and recreation is necessary; its being planned is one issue; its being content-rich is another issue; and avoiding negative aspects in it is also an issue.

6- The Broadcasting Organization and the issue of social justice

Encourage a sense of empathy with the poor. Fortunately, the Broadcasting Organization has had very good programs in this regard over the past few years, which are commendable. Foster the concern for justice in the minds and hearts of the people; this is a very good task. Of course, care should be taken not to insult the poor and to preserve their human dignity. I see in some of the works that are done in this regard, this meaning is precisely observed. The boy or girl who comes to donate a gift to a certain fund, a statement from them is broadcast that is very good, sweet, and tender, and does not contain any insult; however, alongside fostering the concern for social justice and addressing the poor, also demolish the empty and futile life of luxury and extravagance; this life is truly worthy of demolition. A life of luxury should not be promoted at all; rather, it should be demolished and considered a negative point. Why should luxury-seeking be promoted? If someone wants to be luxurious, why should we promote that?

Pay attention that we must give the poor a sense of self-esteem and dignity and teach the wealthy to help the poor. In any case, in the overall life of society, we should not model a life of luxury and extravagance.

7- The Broadcasting Organization and the awakening movement in the Islamic world

8- The Broadcasting Organization and justifying public opinion in various fields

For example, now the issue of nuclear energy is raised. Public opinion regarding this matter must be justified. I heard that apparently the other night, the media had a very good program and contacted the stakeholders in Tehran and Vienna and discussed the issue; such works are very useful. Public opinion must be informed about the issues and justified in a correct and logical manner.

9- The Broadcasting Organization and public participation in all areas

Thanks be to God, in this regard, the Broadcasting Organization has also had very good activities.

I find it necessary to mention a few important executive strategies:

Make content orientation mandatory

The first point is that you must make content orientation mandatory in all programs; all your programs must have a message. Having a message does not necessarily mean being gloomy and boring, so that one says people will get bored; no, this message can be within a completely sweet and entertaining program; however, it must have a message. Our programs should not only not have a negative message, but they should also not be neutral; that is, they should not be neutral. The series you produce, the roundtable you hold, the film you make, the competition you arrange; after all, what important axes do you want to develop among the people through these? This must be clarified. Through good programs and good productions, ensure and guarantee the necessary discourses of society—which sometimes must be brought to the public discourse.

Our messages must not be contradictory

The second point is that delivering various messages must be done in a flowing manner and become a trend; sporadic and situational efforts are not beneficial. All our programs must support each other so that this thought and this idea are raised in society. Sometimes we may give contradictory messages. For example, on one hand, you produce a very good program about social justice; but on the other hand, during another program, you practically violate social justice! This is not correct; the overall tone of the programs must be unified, and contradictions must not be seen among them. In the issue of social justice, films and series are made that often depict the homes used by the characters in these films as luxurious and extravagant! Is this really the living situation of our people? Do a young couple or a husband and wife live in such homes?! What necessity is there for this? Years ago, some series that were broadcast from the media, although their quality was not like today's series—they were behind—yet the living environment in them was modest and in an ordinary house; that is what is good. Life should not necessarily be depicted as luxurious and extravagant. The advertising space of the Broadcasting Organization should be like this. Of course, sometimes we are also reminded about this, and they say things. The media advertisements and sometimes very prominent promotions that lead people towards consumerism, are in contradiction with a program that you have made to condemn consumerism; they are not coordinated with each other.

Supervise the quality of content

The third point is quality supervision. I know that one of your executive tasks is quality supervision over the programs; however, do not limit quality supervision to jurisprudential and religious considerations; for example, let’s ensure that two male and female actors do not touch each other during the performance; or when they sit on a chair, there is a distance between them; these are certainly necessary and must be done in a more intelligent and precise manner; however, these are not the only considerations; there must also be quality supervision over the content. The film that you have given to the producer to make and bring to you, supervise how much it has content.

Among the very good tasks is that especially during production, supervision and inspection should be done so that a lot of unnecessary money is not wasted, and then you have to correct its flaws. In any case, there must be a strong effort in quality supervision to ensure that there are no negative messages in the works.

Consider the impact of the program on the audience

The fourth point is that consider the impact of the program on the audience, not just the increase in viewers. Of course, one of the correct policies of the Broadcasting Organization is to increase its viewers, which fortunately has been successful, and statistics show that both the percentage of television viewers and the percentage of radio listeners have significantly increased in recent years; this is a correct and proper policy; all media in the world have this goal, and you can even intend it as an act of worship; however, this should not be the only goal; rather, you must see what the impact of this program is on the audience. Sometimes, the increase in audience comes at a price that is not worth it. They are attracted, but to what? To something that is either negative or neutral.

Attracting the audience at any cost?

The late Sayyid Qutb writes about a story in one of his books, which I translated before the revolution. He says, "I went to one of the cities in America and saw that a notice was posted at the door of a church: 'Tonight, a program of dance, joy, and light dinner with music will be held.' I was surprised why the church announced these! He writes, 'I was curious to go at that specific time to see what was happening. I saw that yes, a dance hall was next to the church; young couples come and dance; sensual and provocative music is played! Some slightly older individuals sit nearby and enjoy watching! The priest also appeared on stage at the end of the night and calmly adjusted the lights!" He says, "The next day, I went to see the priest; I said, 'Are you a priest or a cabaret owner? Is this a church or a dance hall?!' The priest said, 'I want to attract young people to the church with this!' Is this how young people are attracted to the church?! Young people were not attracted to the church; they were attracted to the dance hall belonging to the church! What advantage does a dance hall belonging to the church have?

If a film or program is broadcast and has a negative impact, what difference does it make whether I broadcast it or my competitor does; in both cases, it is bad; so why should I broadcast it? In my opinion, this is an important logic and must be considered.

Programs of high quality on Radio Quran and Ma'arif

The fifth point is regarding the programs of Radio Quran and Radio Ma'arif Qom. These two radios are truly one of the great blessings and among the very good and valuable actions. Because especially these two radios have a religious hue, their programs must be among the finest. These two radios do not use instruments in their music, and this commitment is good; however, since they use vocals, these vocals must be among the most beautiful, melodious, and meaningful. Bad voices, harsh voices, and irrelevant group performances must absolutely not exist. The best must be gathered here; because the music of these two radios is without instruments. In any case, since these two radios have a religious aspect, their programs must be very beautiful and high-quality; it should not be like the case of the adhan. Of course, the content of the vocals must also be taken very seriously.

A preacher who speaks for, say, a hundred people in a mosque does not read from a text; he relies on his own mind. Sometimes a matter comes to a person's tongue; sometimes a saying or hadith that should come to a person's mind does not come, and it does not create much trouble in front of those hundred people; but what necessity is there for us to broadcast this matter among millions of people? These must be calculated completely. In my opinion, these two radios must definitely have precise, enlightened, and insightful religious experts. These two radios must have all their products be of the highest quality; second-rate is not enough.

Indirectly conveying messages

The sixth point is the indirect conveying of messages and concepts. In this regard, we have repeatedly said things over the years. I see sometimes in foreign films that are broadcast, there are cultural messages and sometimes strange religious messages that a person does not even feel. The art is to express the matter in the most eloquent and effective way; however, without creating a sense of rejection in the other side.

Attention to human resource training

The seventh point is the training of human resources; this issue is very important. The Broadcasting Organization has a university; this university must seriously engage in training capable and sufficient human resources. You must also attract suitable individuals. There are revolutionary and good artists in the country who are undoubtedly among the prominent ones in their fields; however, the Broadcasting Organization does not utilize them; I do not know why? Some of them have connections with me; sometimes they come and go. I have repeatedly advised that these friends should be utilized. Some of them are very good in writing, speaking, poetry, visual arts, and other works; some of them indeed have outstanding works.

I will also give a few brief reminders:

Form a consultative group

1- A strong consultative group regarding the major strategies is needed for Mr. Darghami. He must have a consultative group for major strategies in his management; intelligent individuals should sit and work effectively. Of course, he mentioned that consultative groups have been established in each network—which is very good—but the entire organization also needs this group to provide permanent support; this has always been emphasized by me and I have told previous managers about it.

Draft a five-year plan

2- Set and draft the vision, objectives, and strategies for at least five years. Of course, during the discussion, it was mentioned that something has been drafted. It must be clear where we want to reach in five years; it must be measurable.

Negative figures should not become prominent

3- Pay close attention that negative and unsound figures are not highlighted in the Broadcasting Organization. I have sometimes seen individuals who have no scientific or artistic value being highlighted in the Broadcasting Organization with the people's money; why? Of course, I do not want to elaborate too much on this matter; however, I see someone who is not that valuable in their field and is an average person, being brought in and two hours of television time is devoted to their life, their family, and their entirely worthless past; why? In my opinion, in addition to the existence of this "why," there is also a "negative" aspect. This action is modeling; who do we want to set as a role model for the youth? Such individuals?!

The time management of managers

4- An important reminder is the time management of managers and not engaging in other tasks. I kindly ask the managers of the Broadcasting Organization to consider the work they are currently doing in the Broadcasting Organization as the most important task and not engage in other work; this is your most important task. Engaging in other work prevents you from both tasks. Once during my presidency, in the Supreme Cultural Revolution Council, I quoted a sentence from the book "Siyasatnameh" by Khawaja Nezam al-Mulk. This book is one of our very beautiful and valuable literary texts. Although seven or eight hundred years have passed since that time—the era of Sultan Sanjar or Malik Shah—nevertheless, its contents are still fresh, and when one reads it, one enjoys it. In any case, one of the recommendations he makes to the king of his time is: "Beware! Do not assign a man two tasks; a man and a task." He is right; one man, one task. Of course, Khawaja Nezam al-Mulk had ten tasks! But as Saadi says:

"Do not assign work to the foolish Though the work is not the work of the wise"

The wise manage; however, they assign the work to others. In any case, "a man and a task." Pay attention to this point; it is very important.

I thank you for your solidarity

5- The last point is that I sincerely and wholeheartedly thank the senior managers and esteemed deputies of the organization for the solidarity and cooperation they have shown in the recent months, and I request that this solidarity, cooperation, and correct interaction be continued as much as possible. This work is very important; time is also important; solidarity has an extraordinary impact.

It has become very lengthy; I apologize, dear friends! I wish that more than half of the time I spoke, you spoke and I could hear from you; however, this time it turned out this way. Perhaps a program can be arranged so that you can also speak a bit, and God willing, we can benefit from you.

Peace be upon you and God's mercy and blessings.