مهدی پورطاهری

Purpose- The ongoing research endeavors to identify and critically analyze the paradigmatic rural development model embedded within Iran's spatial planning frameworks. As innovative philosophical perspectives in rural development emerge, the necessity of examining and understanding the foundational principles guiding these initiatives has become increasingly vital. This importance is recognized from a theoretical perspective and in practical efficiency and effectiveness, particularly relevant for geographers engaged in spatial analysis. Design/methodology/approach- The research aims to contribute valuable insights to enhance rural development strategies and inform effective spatial planning in Iran by exploring these dimensions. The research strategy uses a mixed-methods approach, allowing for the selection of various methods that are aligned with the overall research objectives. Initially, the qualitative content analysis method was employed. Data collection utilized several tools, including observation, document analysis, and questionnaires. A non-probability sampling technique was applied, and one document was selected from each of the nine study areas. Researchers needed to consider multiple criteria during judgmental sampling, such as clustering levels, time units, geographic units, and the number of document samples, alongside consultations with academic experts. The document analysis, grounded in qualitative content analysis, aimed to objectify findings. Findings- The research revealed that critical characteristics of the paradigmatic model for rural development in the provincial SSP include "objective ontology," "positivism epistemology," "Separate praxis," and "ethics." The findings indicate that the degree of alignment between the selected SPP and the paradigmatic model of retrogressive rural development is rated at 3.73. This score suggests that the retrogressive perspective remains dominant despite advancements in "ideological" and "institutional" reforms. Originality/value- Consequently, the characteristics associated with the paradigmatic elements of rural development have regressed within the SPP framework.

Purpose- This research examines the impact of social factors on the sustainability and success of rural entrepreneurship in the eastern border of Zayandeh River, Isfahan, Iran. Design/methodology/approach- Using a qualitative grounded theory approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 40 key stakeholders, including rural entrepreneurs, local managers, agricultural jihad managers and experts, entrepreneurship experts, and rural development specialists. MAXQDA software was used for data analysis. Findings- The findings of this research show that trust, support, social participation and teamwork are very important for the success and sustainability of rural entrepreneurship. Mutual trust between entrepreneurs and communities, active participation in economic initiatives and joint efforts, increases innovation, productivity and adaptability in rural businesses. In addition, cultural norms and local power dynamics significantly influence entrepreneurial behaviors. Practical implications- Policymakers should prioritize strengthening local financial institutions, fostering entrepreneurial culture, and adopting participatory methods for designing and implementing entrepreneurship programs. These measures can help to increase the economic capabilities of rural communities. Creating equal opportunities for all members of society and rebuilding trust between rural communities and government institutions is necessary and mandatory. This trust can lead to improved collaborations and effective partnerships. Also, strategies to remove the cultural barriers of entrepreneurship are also necessary to create a suitable environment for innovation and growth and to encourage more people to engage in entrepreneurial activities. Originality/value- This study contributes to the existing literature by providing an integrated conceptual model of social factors affecting the sustainability of rural entrepreneurship. It enhances understanding of the social dynamics that shape entrepreneurial ecosystems in rural areas, particularly areas facing environmental and economic challenges. The obtained insights can provide effective policies and interventions aimed at promoting sustainable rural entrepreneurship in similar contexts. 

Purpose- This study elucidates the profound impact of power struggles on rural management and the multifaceted challenges confronting rural municipalities (RMs) in Iran. The concept of rural mismanagement, initially proposed to decentralize power and reduce government control, has been a pivotal theme in Iranian rural development literature. Over the past 23 years, tensions between mismanagement and the government have intensified, culminating in an escalation of power struggles among rural stakeholders. This research enriches the existing literature by offering novel insights into the common obstacles faced by rural mismanagement in developing countries. Design/methodology/approach- The study employed qualitative thematic analysis to examine the challenges faced by RMs. Snowball sampling was utilized to identify informed respondents. Through qualitative interviews with 60 local administrators, rural management experts, government officials, and residents, we identified that villages with fewer than 20 households are not recognized as villages and lack RMs, resulting in adverse social and economic consequences. For thematic analysis, interview data were analyzed using the immersion technique and the MAXQDA text analysis program to uncover underlying meanings, structures, themes, and patterns.  Findings- This research underscores the challenges facing rural management in Iran and the necessity to expand its functional areas and activities beyond rural boundaries. The findings reveal that RMs are constrained in their responsibilities, limiting their capacity to effectively address organizational concerns. Moreover, distrust in the government undermines the ability of RMs to address community issues, despite their expectations. The research highlights the difficulties RMs encounter in countries with centralized and hierarchical governance structures. The application of the research results underscores the importance of empowering local management, facilitating participation, and institutionalizing processes to address fragmented policymaking and conflicts of interest in rural management. This approach aligns with broader challenges in Iranian rural development, including weak management structures and lack of coordinated programs, which hinder sustainable development.