Title: Strategic Access to Global Platforms: Official Outlines Phased Approach for YouTube
In a significant statement, a senior Iranian official has articulated a strategic vision for leveraging global digital platforms, emphasizing a managed, phased approach to access that aligns with national development goals.
A Tool for Scientific Growth
Seyed Zia Hashemi, Cultural and Social Deputy to the Vice President, emphasized the nation’s need to utilize global achievements and all available capacities for scientific development and growth. He stated that various messaging apps and media platforms possess unique capabilities that can be harnessed effectively.
“YouTube is also a capacity and an online university with many facilities,” Hashemi remarked. “Based on these facilities and capacities, these accesses will gradually increase.”
Phased Implementation of Access
The official clarified that the policy of providing access to platforms like YouTube is being implemented in a step-by-step manner. This measured process ensures operational feasibility while adhering to the overarching governmental policy of enabling access for different segments of society.
“The general policy is that various segments of the population should be able to access YouTube,” Hashemi stated. He acknowledged that differing opinions may exist but reinforced that the government’s general position is to make this access available to all.
Addressing Concerns and Building Trust
Hashemi addressed critiques, firmly dismissing the concept of a “class-based internet” as an unacceptable and non-existent notion. He framed the phased strategy not as segregation, but as a prudent and managerial approach to a complex process.
“The government’s position is clear and has been stated repeatedly,” he said in response to a question about a timeline for universal access. “However, there are executive processes and various considerations that must be prepared for.” He noted that critiques and concerns exist and must be gradually addressed, concluding with a forward-looking perspective: “The general position is that we trust our society and must make increasing use of the capacities of modern technology.”