IJNet Persian Editor Fariba Amini recently talked to Iranian journalist, media researcher, and film critic Omid Habibinia who left his country due to what he felt was a violation of freedom of expression. Relocating to Switzerland, he is optimistic about the future of the Iranian press.

Iranian journalism, according to Habibinia, has a lack of professionalism whereas programs run by other countries such as BBC are better organized. Oppression and dictatorship in Iran has never allowed the Association of Iranian Journalists to become a real organization for journalists with financial and emotional support.

What would aid the Iranian journalists who have their hands tied is support from international and journalism organizations. Since Iranian reporters do not have experience in other areas of media besides print journalism, Habibinia believes online courses emphasizing new media and new journalism trends are essential in improving journalism. "Multi-media journalism is now a big part of journalism throughout the world," he notes. "Therefore, we should focus on its strengths and weaknesses."

Habibinia says that American journalism deserves some criticism as well. Their reports on Iran have not been fully developed sometimes have been faulty. Good reporters, he says, must have ample knowledge of history and culture, but American reporters just find one or two "chic" issues to report and take things out of context.

To improve this situation, Habibinia suggests a better relationship between Iran and America. "The point is: At the end of the day, Americans and Iranians get along just fine with or without their idiotic and stubborn governments."