Saeed Madani, Political Activist in Iran

Rooz (R): Mr. Madani, Rooz has published its 500th issue. How do you evaluate the influence of this electronic publication so far?

Saeed Madani (SM): Putting together an electronic publication in a developing society such as Iran is like walking in the dark. Essentially, there is no access to any past experience and no accurate evaluation of the future. There are issues both with the traditional world, which is still dependant on past ways of life, and the modern world, which has arrived like an unwanted guest. Therefore, an Iranian reader has a foot in each of these worlds: on the one hand he likes to feel the cheap paper under his fingertips and hear the sound of flipping through a newspaper, while on the other he sometimes sits behind his desk and checks the internet, though not always to read the news.

R: How successful have electronic publications been in this respect?

SM: The experience of Rooz has taken place in this context. In general, Rooz has been able to be successful in the context of this dualist experience. Certainly, the fact that Rooz is publishing its 500th issue is a testament for its success.

R: What do you think about the publication’s general quality?

SM: Perhaps one reason for the relative success of Rooz can be found in its open-mindedness and expert analysis. The drive of the publication’s writers, both its domestic contributors and those in exile, and their passion for covering national issues has brought about a positive reputation for Rooz. I think that if the same quality of work is maintained, Rooz will have many successful days ahead.