The Impact of Local Governance Models on National Unity and Cohesion After the Victory of the Islamic Revolution in Iran

This article examines the impact of local governance models on national unity and cohesion in Iran following the victory of the Islamic Revolution. Employing a historical-analytical approach and drawing upon existing documents and records, the study investigates the transformations in the local governance system from the era of initial democratic decentralization (۱۹۷۹–۱۹۸۸) to the hybrid bureaucratic and decentralized model (۱۹۸۸–۲۰۲۱). Focusing on the tripartite dimensions of national cohesion—namely, social cohesion (emphasizing social inclusion and equality), cultural cohesion (emphasizing cultural identity), and political cohesion (emphasizing political participation and trust in the government)—this study analyzes how each governance model has contributed to either strengthening or weakening national cohesion. Findings indicate that in the realm of social cohesion, although efforts have been made to enhance social inclusion and social justice, challenges such as the expansion of state bureaucracy and dependency on oil rent have posed significant obstacles. In the area of cultural cohesion, there has been a notable emphasis on Islamic values and traditions within the framework of the Islamic Republic; however, concerns have also emerged regarding political restrictions and their impact on cultural diversity. This study demonstrates that national cohesion is a multifaceted concept requiring a balance between social, cultural, and political components, as well as a nuanced understanding of the diversity of local communities. Ultimately, it is concluded that effective local governance can play a pivotal role in enhancing national cohesion by promoting local participation, reinforcing social inclusion, and fostering trust and collaboration. This article examines the impact of local governance models on national unity and cohesion in Iran following the victory of the Islamic Revolution. Employing a historical-analytical approach and drawing upon existing documents and records, the study investigates the transformations in the local governance system from the era of initial democratic decentralization (۱۹۷۹–۱۹۸۸) to the hybrid bureaucratic and decentralized model (۱۹۸۸–۲۰۲۱). Focusing on the tripartite dimensions of national cohesion—namely, social cohesion (emphasizing social inclusion and equality), cultural cohesion (emphasizing cultural identity), and political cohesion (emphasizing political participation and trust in the government)—this study analyzes how each governance model has contributed to either strengthening or weakening national cohesion. Findings indicate that in the realm of social cohesion, although efforts have been made to enhance social inclusion and social justice, challenges such as the expansion of state bureaucracy and dependency on oil rent have posed significant obstacles. In the area of cultural cohesion, there has been a notable emphasis on Islamic values and traditions within the framework of the Islamic Republic; however, concerns have also emerged regarding political restrictions and their impact on cultural diversity. This study demonstrates that national cohesion is a multifaceted concept requiring a balance between social, cultural, and political components, as well as a nuanced understanding of the diversity of local communities. Ultimately, it is concluded that effective local governance can play a pivotal role in enhancing national cohesion by promoting local participation, reinforcing social inclusion, and fostering trust and collaboration.

کلیدواژه ها:

National cohesion ، local governance ، Islamic Revolution ، Islamic Political Philosophy ، social ، cultural