National Information Network, Freedom of Expression and Privacy: A Comparative Analysis of National Communication Infrastructures and Proposing a Policy Model within the Legal Framework of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Baqir al‑Olum University, Qom

10.22082/cr.2026.2074492.2863
Abstract
This research analyzes the complex between the development of the “National Intelligence Network” as a digital governance strategy and “freedom of expression” as a fundamental right in the legal system of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The main issue of the research is the existence of a theoretical and practical gap in how to align the technical, security, and economic goals of the National Intelligence Network with the guarantee of freedom of expression enshrined in Article 24 of the Constitution (Publications and the press are free to express their views, unless they violate the principles of Islam or public law). Using a comparative-analytical research method, this article examines the experiences of other countries in managing this challenge. The goal is to extract lessons for policymaking in Iran, not to prescribe a specific model. The findings show that the success of the National Intelligence Network does not depend solely on technical progress, but also requires the development of a transparent legal framework, the establishment of multifaceted regulatory institutions, and the adoption of an opportunity-oriented approach rather than a restriction-oriented approach. By providing an analytical framework for assessing opportunities and threats, this research offers practical suggestions for policymaking that can help reduce existing tensions and increase public trust in this national project. The findings show that the success of the National Information Network depends on its ability to create a new “digital social contract” between the government and citizens; a contract based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect for rights and responsibilities.

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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 12 July 2026

  • Receive Date 12 October 2025
  • Revise Date 23 April 2026
  • Accept Date 18 May 2026