Teheran Haft Italienische Journalistin Iran

PETER

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Dec 28, 2024

43 visitor like this post

Share

Teheran, Haft, und eine italienische Journalistin im Iran: Meine Erfahrungen

Okay, so, Teheran. It sounds dramatic, right? Like a spy novel or something. And it kinda was, in a way. I'm not a spy, obviously, more like a… well, I was a journalist, a young, naive Italian journalist, fresh out of uni, dreaming of uncovering hidden truths and winning a Pulitzer. Yeah, I know, ambitious much? But hey, a girl’s gotta have dreams, right? This whole Haft-thing… it was a real eye-opener.

My Trip to Tehran: A Rollercoaster of Emotions

My trip to Tehran was part of a larger assignment covering the Middle East. I’d spent months researching, learning Farsi (badly, I might add. My pronunciation was… interesting), and preparing for what I thought would be a straightforward journalistic adventure. Boy, was I wrong. I landed in Tehran expecting bustling markets, ancient mosques, and maybe a sprinkle of political tension. What I got was a whirlwind of experiences that challenged every preconceived notion I had about the country and its people.

The initial days were a blur of navigating the city's chaotic streets, marveling at its stunning architecture, and trying (and failing miserably) to order food without butchering the Farsi language. I managed to interview a few people, mostly academics and artists. They were incredible, thoughtful people, willing to share their perspectives despite the inherent risks.

Then came the Haft Sin. This traditional New Year's spread – with its seven symbolic items – was beautiful to witness. It was a window into a culture so rich and complex, vastly different from my own. But things took a turn. During a particularly passionate discussion on women's rights with a group of female students, a plainclothes security official showed up. The atmosphere instantly shifted.

Navigating the Complexities of Iranian Society: Dealing with Haft

The whole experience was like being on a rollercoaster – exhilarating highs and terrifying lows. There's a lot of misinformation out there about Iran. The media often presents a simplistic, often negative, picture. But my experience showed a far more nuanced reality. It wasn't all sunshine and roses, of course. There were limitations to press freedom, bureaucratic hurdles, and moments of genuine fear.

One time, I was trying to film a street scene and bam—a grumpy-looking policeman appeared, looking like he wanted to confiscate my camera. I almost had a heart attack. Luckily, my fixer (a local journalist who helped me navigate the local scene) handled it like a pro. Crisis averted.

Learning Points and Actionable Advice:

• Research is Key: Before you go anywhere, especially a country with complex political dynamics, do your research. Learn about the local customs, laws, and potential risks.
• Get a Local Fixer: This is practically essential. A fixer can help you navigate bureaucratic hurdles, arrange interviews, and understand the cultural nuances. It made all the difference for me. Trust me on this one!
• Be Respectful: Dress modestly, be mindful of local customs, and learn a few basic phrases in the local language. Showing respect goes a long way.
• Backup Everything: This applies to your photos, videos, and even your notes. Having multiple backups is crucial, especially in situations where technology might not be reliable.

This entire experience in Tehran taught me that there’s much more to a country than meets the eye. It forced me to question my own assumptions and biases, and it definitely altered my journalistic approach forever. The Iranian people are complex, resilient, and deeply passionate. Getting to know them, albeit briefly, was an honor and a profound learning experience, despite the challenges of navigating their society. And those Haft Sin celebrations? They were truly unforgettable.