Allameh Tabataba’i University Strategic Recommendations for Administrative Bodies

Allameh Tabataba’i University Strategic Recommendations for Administrative Bodies

The Status and Role of Investigative Journalism in Environmental Conservation, Accompanied by the Critique, Review, and Screening of the Documentary Film "Azadi" (On Illegal Hunting of Migratory Birds in Fereydunkenar)

Author
Zarrin Zardar
Department of Communications, Allameh Tabataba'i University
10.22054/jicia.2017.20403
Abstract
Investigative journalism, as one of the most vital instruments of social oversight, possesses a high capacity to prevent environmental degradation and reinforce sustainable development because, by exposing wrongdoing, countering concealment, and highlighting crises, it can sensitize public opinion and influence policymaking trajectories and implementation. In conditions where the profit-seeking and self-interest of certain actors threaten natural resources, societal indifference toward environmental crises provides the groundwork for continued destruction, and the media can bridge this awareness gap. Examining an exemplary investigative documentary on the illegal hunting of migratory birds in Fereydunkenar demonstrates that multi-faceted narration, the engagement of diverse actors, and the utilization of attractive media formats increase the potential for transforming environmental issues into public concerns. However, serious limitations and obstacles in the content production stages—including institutional conservatism, the non-cooperation of governmental organizations, and the lack of legal protection for journalists—weaken the watchdog function of the media. Proposed strategies include developing specialized training in environmental investigative journalism, formulating professional standards and transparent guidelines for organizational collaboration with content producers, providing spiritual and institutional support for independent works, raising public awareness regarding the role and capacity of investigative journalism, and strengthening the bond between academia, documentary filmmakers, and responsible institutions to train professional personnel and elevate the quality of media productions.
Keywords
Investigative Journalism
Social Oversight
Environmental Crisis
Media Exposure
Sustainable Development