Challenges of the Right to Fame and the Consequences of Its Violation in the Iranian Legal System

Abstract

The right to fame, though increasingly relevant in today’s digital age, remains underdeveloped within Iran’s legal framework. This article explores the challenges and consequences of violating the right to fame in Iran, where legal protections are primarily derived from defamation and privacy laws, lacking explicit recognition of fame as a protectable legal right. By employing a descriptive analysis method, the article examines the existing legal provisions, key cases, and the interaction between fame, media law, and freedom of expression in Iran. A comparative analysis with legal systems in the United States and the European Union reveals significant gaps in Iran’s approach, particularly in addressing the economic and commercial exploitation of public personas. The study identifies legal loopholes, inconsistent enforcement, and the complexities introduced by the digital age as key challenges. Recommendations for reform include the formal recognition of fame as a distinct legal right, the introduction of specific legislation to regulate the commercial use of fame, and stronger enforcement mechanisms. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for comprehensive legal reforms to protect individuals from unauthorized exploitation of their fame, aligning Iran’s legal system with international standards in an increasingly digital world.