A recent analysis of surveillance practices in Iran underscores the broader implications of state monitoring on individual freedoms. The article argues that labeling surveillance as merely 'dystopian' fails to address the real issue: the imbalance of power it creates between the state and its citizens. In Iran, surveillance restricts the ability of individuals to challenge the political status quo, potentially allowing regimes to maintain power indefinitely with minimal public support. The discussion extends to global surveillance practices, contrasting the localized control seen in countries like Iran, Russia, and China with the broader reach of Western nations. While the former exercises tight control within their borders, Western surveillance often extends globally, affecting individuals in regions where these countries have no direct presence. This global reach raises concerns about privacy and the potential for foreign influence over domestic affairs, highlighting the need for international dialogue on privacy rights and democratic accountability.