Iranian streaming platforms petition President over SATRA regulation

The Association of Online Video Companies in Iran has sent a formal letter to President Masoud Pezeshkian protesting the current state of regulation within the home video network sector. The letter, signed by executives from major platforms including Filimo, Filmnet, Namava, and Charkhoneh, criticizes the delays and ambiguity in issuing production and distribution licenses by SATRA.

Industry leaders argue that these regulatory hurdles are disrupting investment, employment, and professional activities. They noted that the lack of clear guidelines has pushed some producers toward satellite networks, foreign platforms, or unofficial productions. The association also criticized the use of subjective labels such as ‘violence’ or ‘vulgarity’ against artists and works, advocating for professional dialogue to resolve cultural disputes before they are referred to judicial authorities.

A central point of contention is the role of the regulator. The association expressed concerns regarding a conflict of interest, arguing that regulation should be handled by an accountable cultural institution rather than the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), which acts as a commercial competitor to private platforms. The signatories are calling for transparent, predictable, and accountable oversight, requesting an urgent meeting with the President to establish clear timelines for license responses and formal appeal mechanisms.