Examining The Implementation Obstacles of Sustainable Development Policies in Iran from The Point of View of Senior Government Managers

Mostafa  Shoara; Mohammad Javad Fatemi; Eslam Baktash

doi:10.63053/ijmea.29

Authors

Mostafa Shoara Ph.D. student in public administration, decision making and policy orientation, Isfahan Islamic Azad University (Khorasgan), Isfahan, Iran
Mohammad Javad Fatemi Ph.D. student in public administration, decision making and policy orientation, Isfahan Islamic Azad University (Khorasgan), Isfahan, Iran.
Eslam Baktash Ph.D. student in public administration, decision making and policy orientation, Isfahan Islamic Azad University (Khorasgan), Isfahan, Iran.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63053/ijmea.29

Keywords:

Sustainable development, implementation barriers, public policymaking, senior government managers, Iran

Abstract

This study aims to examine the implementation barriers to sustainable development policies in Iran from the perspective of senior government managers. This study used a mixed method and collected quantitative and qualitative data to examine the factors affecting the effectiveness of implementing these policies. The statistical population included senior managers of government departments related to policymaking and implementation of sustainable development programs, and the sampling was conducted with 30 people for the quantitative part and 15 semi-structured interviews for the qualitative part. Quantitative data analysis through multiple regression modelling and confirmatory factor analysis showed that "financial support" and "collaboration among stakeholders" have the greatest impact on the success of implementing sustainable policies. Qualitative analysis based on the content analysis method also identified infrastructure challenges, poor coordination between government and non-government sectors, and cultural problems as key barriers. Comparing the results with similar studies showed that Iran's specific structural and cultural factors have made some implementation challenges more prominent than in other countries. By identifying implementation constraints and providing practical recommendations, this research provides useful insights for managers and policymakers to improve policymaking processes and promote the effective implementation of sustainable development policies in Iran.

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