علیرضا شیخ محمدی

The global energy transition towards low-carbon systems has brought to the fore the underexplored sociopolitical dynamics shaping transition pathways in fossil fuel-dependent developing countries. This study addresses this critical research gap by conducting a comprehensive, multidimensional analysis of the complex interplay between public attitudes, interest group pressures, political institutions, and cultural narratives influencing Iran's energy transition strategies amidst evolving global realities. Employing a novel analytical framework that synthesizes resource dependence, sociotechnical transitions, punctuated equilibrium, and complex interdependence theories, the research draws upon rich insights from 11 semi-structured interviews with leading Iranian experts across policy, engineering, economics, sociocultural, and governance domains. Through a rigorous discourse analysis of interview data and an extensive literature review, the study examines the way in which entrenched hydrocarbon interests, institutional fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, public perceptions, demographic divergences, and cultural identities shape Iran's complex energy landscape. The findings underscore the importance of responsive communication, inclusive stakeholder engagement, adaptive governance, and regional cooperation in navigating the sociopolitical terrain underpinning Iran's sustainable energy transition. The study generates actionable policy recommendations spanning public outreach, political economy management, institutional capacity building, and international diplomacy, advancing theoretical understandings of energy transitions in resource-dependent Global South contexts, while providing guidance for policymakers navigating complex reform pathways amidst societal resistance and geopolitical uncertainties.

This article offers a thorough examination of Iran's strategic realignment towards the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and the BRICS bloc within the evolving international political landscape. Utilizing a neoclassical realist framework, the research delves into the systemic pressures and intrinsic state-level factors that influence Iran's foreign policy decisions. The research method adopted encompasses both qualitative analysis and a review of primary and secondary sources to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical recalibration. Key findings indicate that Iran's shift is driven by a combination of economic, diplomatic, and strategic imperatives. Economically, affiliations with the SCO and BRICS present Iran with enhanced trade opportunities, investment prospects, and alternative financing mechanisms in the backdrop of Western sanctions. Diplomatically, these affiliations bolster Iran's regional and global position, affording it platforms for dialogue and strategic cooperation. Strategically, the realignment has profound implications for both West Asian power dynamics and the broader global power structures, hinting at a transition towards a more multipolar world order. However, the research also uncovers multifaceted challenges that Iran confronts in this strategic pivot, ranging from managing diverse priorities within the SCO and BRICS to reconciling domestic objectives with global aspirations. In essence, the article sheds light on Iran's adaptive foreign policy strategy amidst a changing global order. By answering questions related to the motivations, benefits, and challenges of Iran's strategic realignment, this research provides valuable insights into the future trajectory of geopolitical dynamics in West Asia and beyond.