The Role of Iranian Friendship Societies in Directing International Public Opinions

Friendship societies as an important lever of improving cultural diplomacy and being influential in public opinion are intensely focused by international actors. Therefore, this paper tries to answer this question “what is the role of Iranian friendship societies in managing international public opinions?” I’ve done the job through the use of analytical approach in quantitative and qualitative studies and by applying constructivism theory and internationalism as well. Findings of the paper show that Iranian friendship societies in different countries pave the way for Islamic Republic of Iran to approach other nation-states and this process in turn brings legitimation and reduces political tensions between countries neighboring Iran. As great powers try to illustrate Iran and its policies fearful, these societies, by indicating a favorable image of Iran, are able to modify public opinion and neutralize Western black propaganda against Iran. According to this, performance of these societies in international public opinion has a strong relation to Iran’s international credit and may help the expansion of revolutionary culture and values very much. The entire performance and functions of these societies may facilitate the guidance of international public opinion and that is very important in strengthening Iran’s international position. SPSS software and questionnaire is the tool used to take necessary information.