Studies in Public Service Administration

Mass Media and Public Interest: Media Mechanisms in Reducing Human Development Inequalities

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Reza Vaezi 1
Hossein Adhami 2

1 Professor, Public Administration Department., Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran.

2 PhD in Public Administration, Allameh Tabataba'i University, Tehran, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22054/spsa.2026.90982.1118
Abstract
Human development inequalities represent a major challenge for contemporary societies and hinder the realization of public interest and social justice. These inequalities largely arise from unequal access to basic capabilities in key areas such as education, health, and income. Despite the rapid expansion of digital communication technologies, traditional mass media—particularly radio and television—continue to possess significant potential to promote public interest by producing and disseminating content that contributes to the development of basic capabilities and the reduction of human development inequalities. The present study aims to identify the media mechanisms through which the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) can contribute to reducing human development inequalities in Iran. This research adopts a qualitative approach and employs the constructivist grounded theory method. The study participants consisted of academic scholars and executive experts in the fields of media and public administration who possess sufficient knowledge of development issues. Data were collected through semi‑structured interviews and analyzed through iterative coding procedures. The findings reveal five key mechanisms through which IRIB can contribute to reducing human development inequalities: trust‑building, message production management, message distribution management, organizational resource management, and strengthening institutional cooperation.

Keywords

Mass media
Public interest
Inequality
Constructivist grounded theory
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Studies in Public Service Administration
Volume 3, Issue 10
Spring 2026
Pages 209-256

  • Receive Date 28 January 2026
  • Revise Date 18 February 2026
  • Accept Date 27 February 2026

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