Religion & Communication

Futures Studies on the Governance of Religious Propagation in Iran: Analysis of Trends, Drivers, and Strategies

Document Type : Scientific-Research Article

Author

Assistant Professor, Department of Religious Future Studies and Religiosity, Research Institute for Islamic Sciences and Culture, Qom, Iran

10.30497/rc.2025.248264.2112

Abstract

This study investigates the potential futures of religious advertising governance in Iran, offering strategies to enhance its effectiveness amidst accelerating technological, social, and cultural transformations. The key problem addressed is the increasing challenges posed by digitalization, generational shifts in lifestyles, diminishing trust in traditional religious authorities, and the emergence of new actors in digital spaces. The lack of timely recognition of trends and inadequate responses to dynamic technological and societal shifts have decreased the efficiency of traditional religious advertising methods, necessitating structural changes. Utilizing a qualitative approach and trend analysis tools, the research explores megatrends such as globalization, individualism, digital transformation, and changes in religious identities, linking these phenomena to key drivers such as technological advances, socio-cultural evolution, and governance model shifts. Data for this work were collected through document analysis, literature review, and expert interviews. The findings highlight the need for innovative and technology-driven strategies, interactive content production, media equity enhancement, and redefining the roles of religious preachers to maintain and improve the efficiency of religious advertising. The study emphasizes the importance of an anticipatory, futures-oriented approach to build resilience among religious institutions against rapid societal and technological changes. The results provide actionable insights for policymakers and religious leaders to redesign the system of religious promotion, leveraging emerging opportunities while addressing contemporary challenges. This study offers a framework for innovative, adaptive, and equitable governance of religious advertising to maintain its relevance and effectiveness in the digital age.

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Main Subjects

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Religion & Communication
Volume 32, Issue 2 - Serial Number 68
religion and communication
January 2026
Pages 585-614