RSF launches Iran media help desk for journalists

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 10 January 2026 |  JP Global Monitoring Desk

Reporters Without Borders has launched an Iran Media Help Desk to support journalists and independent media facing intense censorship and digital repression, offering VPNs, digital security tools, technical support for mirror sites and emergency assistance mechanisms.

Summary

PARIS — Reporters Without Borders has launched an Iran Media Help Desk aimed at supporting journalists and independent media workers operating under severe censorship and repression, as restrictions on information and digital access continue to intensify in the country. The initiative is designed to provide practical assistance to reporters facing online surveillance, website blocking, and pressure linked to their professional work.

According to RSF, the help desk will offer access to digital security tools, including virtual private networks, as well as technical support to help media outlets maintain mirror sites that allow audiences to reach blocked content. The organization said the program also includes emergency assistance mechanisms intended to help journalists continue reporting when their work or livelihoods are threatened.

Support mechanisms for journalists under censorship

The Iran Media Help Desk reflects a growing emphasis by international press freedom groups on operational support, rather than advocacy alone, in environments where authorities tightly control digital infrastructure. Iran has long been cited by rights organizations for its extensive internet filtering, prosecution of journalists, and pressure on independent media operating inside and outside the country.

RSF said the help desk is intended to function as a centralized point of contact, allowing journalists to request tailored assistance based on their security and publishing needs. While RSF has previously supported Iranian journalists through campaigns and legal advocacy, the organization described this initiative as a more structured and ongoing support mechanism focused on day-to-day reporting challenges.

Rising international engagement on Iranian media issues

The launch comes amid increased international scrutiny of media conditions in Iran, particularly during periods of political unrest when access to independent reporting is often further restricted. Media freedom organizations have repeatedly warned that shutdowns, throttling, and surveillance tools are used to limit coverage and identify reporters and sources.

By introducing technical and emergency support elements, RSF is aligning its Iran-focused work with similar assistance models it has deployed in other high-risk environments. Analysts note that such programs aim to help journalists remain operational even when domestic legal protections are weak or absent.

RSF said it will continue to monitor press freedom conditions in Iran and adapt the help desk based on evolving risks. The organization emphasized that the initiative is part of a broader effort to sustain independent journalism where repression and censorship threaten the public’s access to verified information.

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting based on publicly released statements and materials from Reporters Without Borders.

PHOTO: AI-generated; for illustrative purposes only.

KEY POINTS:

• Reporters Without Borders launched an Iran Media Help Desk to support journalists and independent media under censorship.
• The desk provides VPNs and digital security tools to counter online surveillance.
• It offers technical support to maintain mirror sites so audiences can access blocked content.
• Emergency assistance mechanisms aim to help journalists continue reporting when threatened.
• The initiative emphasizes operational support over advocacy in response to Iran's internet filtering and repression.