Using Instagram Strategically When Iran Is Offline
(A simple, step-by-step guide for everyone)
When the internet is shut down in Iran, the goal is not only to silence voices —
it is to erase visibility.
In these moments, Instagram outside Iran can become a powerful megaphone —
if it is used correctly and in coordination.
If you know nothing about Instagram, just know this:
When you write @accountname:
-
Your message enters that account’s notification system
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Your post becomes traceable and documented
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Collective pressure is created, even if no response is given
What is our goal on Instagram?
Not debate.
Not arguments.
Not emotional outbursts.
Our goal is to:
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Be seen
-
Record the message
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Apply media and political pressure
What exactly should you do? (Step by step)
1️⃣ Post a simple post or story
It can be:
-
Text only
-
Or a simple image with text
Write in English.
2️⃣ Copy one of these ready-made messages (English)
You may use these exactly as written:
- Internet shutdowns in Iran enable violence in silence. This must be condemned.
or:
- When Iran goes offline, people disappear. Silence is complicity.
or:
- Cutting the internet is not security — it is a cover for human rights abuses.
or:
- Iran needs internet access, not bullets.
3️⃣ Tag (@) official and relevant accounts
(These are global, official accounts — tagging them is correct and not misleading)
🏛 United Nations & international institutions
🛡 Global human rights organisations
🌐 Internet freedom & digital rights groups
📰 International news agencies
💻 Technology companies & platforms
📌 You do not need to tag all of them.
Tag 3–6 relevant accounts only.
4️⃣ Add hashtags (few but precise)
Choose 2–4 hashtags, not more:
5️⃣ What should you NOT tag?
❌ Anonymous accounts
❌ Fan pages
❌ Iranian groups who are already aware
❌ Accounts unrelated to the issue
Incorrect tagging = misleading the audience.
The Power of Coordination (Very Important)
You do not need to be famous.
Even:
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20–30 real accounts
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Posting similar messages
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Within a short time window (e.g. one evening)
Can:
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Attract journalists’ attention
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Appear in media reports
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Trigger official responses
Coordination matters more than numbers.
If you only want to do one thing
Copy and post this:
That’s it.
Final Note
Instagram activism is:
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Not for arguments
-
Not for venting anger
Instagram is a tool for public pressure.
Write less.
Write clearly.
Tag correctly.
