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Ministry Web site launches to attract tech-savvy Iranians

In June 2009, young Iranians were tweeting, texting, e-mailing, posting pictures and posting video of the post-election unrest amidst media blackout, reports MNN.

It was generally seen as the first time young Iranians engaged in cyber war against authorities who were trying to control information over the country's disputed presidential election.

Activists used text messages, e-mail, blogs, and "word of mouth" to coordinate opposition. Social media tools like Facebook and Twitter were utilized more by observers in other countries, and the story swept the world. Called the "Green movement," it remains the first major world event broadcast worldwide almost entirely via social media.

It also revealed a new trend in Iran. Despite restrictions, according to some studies nearly half of the population regularly uses the Internet. SAT-7, a satellite television ministry to the Middle East and North Africa, is responding to the trend. David Harder with SAT-7 says it's time to move in Iran. "65% are under the age of 30, so they're very knowledgeable about new technologies. They love the internet, they love talking to people, and they love asking questions."

SAT-7 PARS recently upgraded its www.sat7Pars.com Web site. The new site includes samples of SAT-7 programs, a complete Bible in Farsi which users can read or download, a place where basic questions about the faith are answered, and much more.

More than that, Harder explains, "The internet is something that is very powerful as a compendium with broadcasts because it allows for two -way communication."

As SAT-7 has seen response double, they've also seen a picture of the global church painted. Harder says, "Someone can ask a question or say ‘I'm struggling with this', and then all of a sudden, all these other Christians who are living in the same environment can respond. They can write in and give Scripture verses, and they give other messages that are uplifting and encouraging, trying to help their brothers and sisters."

It provides a dynamic way for viewers to interact, says Harder. "What we want to do with all of our Web sites is make them a strong tool that people can use to get answers, to talk with other Christians within their own country."

However, it appears the growth hasn't totally escaped notice. Recently, the SAT-7 team noticed some anomalies. "The government has a very tight control over the internet. We do believe that in some places, it's possible that it may be blocked. It may be part of other Web sites that are being blocked, and many people we know can still get it. It's somewhat sporadic, and we're trying to figure out what the situation is."

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TAGS: Iran presidential election post-election unrest media blackout Facebook Twitter SAT-7 PARS web site

[08/26/2010]

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