An Account of the Barriers to the Development of Non-Governmental Organizations within the Political and Economic Structure of Iran

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Candidate, Department of Political Sociology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Political Science, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

3 Associate Professor, Department of International Relations, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran

10.22081/psq.2025.77298

Abstract

In modern societies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are recognized as key actors in political, social, and economic activities. These organizations not only enhance public awareness and civic participation but are also considered instrumental in driving social and political reforms. However, the relationship between NGOs and the political and economic structures in countries like Iran faces numerous challenges
and barriers, deeply affecting the development process and social transformations. The central question of this article is: What challenges and barriers have NGOs encountered in their development within Iran’s political and economic structure between 2001 and 2021? The findings indicate five major categories of obstacles: legal and governmental challenges, financial and economic barriers, communication and information dissemination issues, cultural and social impediments, and political, structural, and managerial problems. Adopting an interpretive paradigm and an inductive logic within a qualitative research approach, this study employs a content analysis design to identify the obstacles, influencing factors, and strategies for the development of NGOs within Iran’s political and economic framework. Based on the discursive relations of NGOs with the political and economic structures, the article ultimately proposes legislative reforms, infrastructural transformations, financial and moral support measures, and cultural initiatives to enhance the development of NGOs in Iran.

Keywords

References

* Holy Quran
** Nahj-al-Balagha
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