Document Type : Research Article

Authors

• Mohammad Ghafournia ¹
• Nazanin Saei ²
• Mohammahd Reza Behbodi ²

¹ Faculty member, Department of Industrial and Government Management, University of Hormozgan

² Department of Industrial and Government Management, Faculty of Management and Accounting, University of Hormozgan, Bandar Abbas, Iran

Abstract

Purpose: Social network filtering is implemented in many countries for various reasons, including combating cybercrimes, preventing the spread of rumors, and curbing the promotion of violence, immorality, and other forms of inappropriate content. Governments often justify these policies as a means of protecting national security, maintaining social order, and safeguarding cultural values. However, one of the most significant challenges associated with filtering is the lack of systematic performance evaluation of government policies in this area. Without proper evaluation, it becomes difficult to determine whether the policy is achieving its intended objectives or whether it creates unintended negative consequences such as economic costs or reduced trust in governance. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the performance of the government in filtering social networks in a comprehensive manner.



Design/methodology/approach: Based on the defined objectives, the research is classified as applied research, as it seeks to address a practical policy issue. In terms of data collection, it falls under descriptive-survey research; and regarding the nature of the data, it is categorized as mixed-methods research, combining both qualitative and quantitative dimensions to ensure a more reliable and valid outcome. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews designed to explore expert opinions in depth while allowing flexibility to capture unexpected insights. The study population consisted of academic experts in management and information technology, government managers in the field of communications, and specialists in communications and IT. The sampling method was non-random purposive sampling, which enabled the researchers to deliberately select individuals with relevant knowledge and expertise. A total of 15 interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was achieved. The semi-structured interviews were analyzed using the Attride-Stirling thematic analysis method, which provides a systematic process for identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns within qualitative data. Additionally, the Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) method was employed to structure and prioritize the identified factors in terms of their influence and interrelationships.



Research findings: The analysis of factors affecting the efficiency, effectiveness, and public acceptance of the Iranian government’s social media filtering policy shows that the success of this policy largely depends on institutional coordination, strong technical infrastructure, and gaining public trust. Regarding efficiency, technical infrastructure, institutional coordination, and continuous monitoring are critical factors at the first and second levels, ensuring effective policy implementation. At the third level, resource allocation and cooperation with the private sector are highlighted as key drivers. In terms of effectiveness, achieving goals such as reducing illegal content and influencing user behavior is placed at the first level, while challenges like access to filter bypass tools and cybersecurity issues are located at the second level. Institutional coordination is emphasized as an independent and influential factor across all levels. For public acceptance, the quality of domestic platforms, public awareness campaigns, and government transparency stand at the first level, whereas broader issues such as the impact on access to information and livelihoods appear at lower levels. The findings suggest that these interrelated factors form a complex network of interactions, in which institutional coordination emerges as a pivotal element that can enhance all three dimensions simultaneously by strengthening policy coherence, infrastructure, and transparency.



Limitations and consequences: In the present study, due to time constraints, the testing of the obtained models was not conducted, which could have provided further validation of the results. Another limitation was the lack of a detailed examination of the dynamic relationships between the identified factors. Nevertheless, the implications of this research are significant. The findings suggest that policymakers can enhance the success of filtering policies by focusing on institutional coherence, strengthening technical infrastructure, and promoting transparency and public participation.



Practical consequences: Evaluating government performance on social media filtering in terms of efficiency, effectiveness, and public acceptability provides a practical tool for improving policymaking. Such evaluation can reduce social and economic harms, increase accountability, and foster positive interaction between the government and the public.



Innovation or value of the article: One of the innovative aspects of this research lies in its use of a three-dimensional framework—efficiency, effectiveness, and public acceptability—to evaluate the Iranian government’s performance on social media filtering. While many previous studies have addressed the effects of filtering in a fragmented and isolated manner, this study combines the three perspectives, thereby offering a comprehensive and multidimensional analysis. This holistic approach not only enriches academic understanding but also provides practical guidance for policymakers seeking balanced and sustainable solutions.

Keywords

• Government
• Filtering
• Social Networks