The Role of Urban Policies in Developing Sport Diplomacy in Border and Multicultural Regions

Sport diplomacy, as an emerging tool for intercultural dialogue and the promotion of sustainable peace, has gained increasing attention in urban policy and political geography studies. In border and multicultural regions, urban policies can strengthen inter-ethnic and international relations by supporting sports activities, cultural programs, and participatory infrastructures. This research aims to analyze the role of urban policies in promoting sport diplomacy in Iran's border and multicultural regions, focusing on their cultural, social, and political dimensions. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, using documentary data, semi-structured expert interviews, and comparative analysis of three border regions (Kurdistan, Sistan & Baluchestan, and West Azerbaijan). Findings indicate that sports-particularly through cross-border and multicultural events- have a significant capacity to reduce ethnic mistrust and improve the international image of border cities. However, lack of coordinated urban policies, insufficient infrastructure, and limited cultural investment remain major obstacles to fully realizing sport diplomacy in these areas.

کلیدواژه ها:

Urban Policy ، Sport Diplomacy ، Border Regions ، Political Geography ، Multiculturalism ، Social Cohesion ، Urban Sustainability