"Social Policy Development and the Fragility of Social Cohesion in Iran"

Social cohesion is frequently regarded as a direct outcome of effective social policies, with the state assuming a pivotal role in fostering and sustaining this cohesion through its policy determinations. While extensive research exists on social policy development, there needs to be more focus on the barriers that hinder this process, which are crucial to understanding the relationship between social policy and social cohesion. Decreasing social unity may indicate the government's failure to develop and execute effective social policies. The available evidence in Iran, particularly regarding key indicators of social cohesion such as "social capital" and "equality in the distribution of opportunities," indicates a vulnerability in the country's social fabric. The fragility described here shows a broader deficiency in the formulation of social policies, a core responsibility of the Islamic government of Iran.

Despite making promises over four decades following the 1979 revolution to prioritize "social welfare" and "social justice," the political system has not fulfilled these objectives. This paper explores the factors that obstructed social policy development during this period. Applying a theoretical framework centered on the state, the study utilizes secondary data and document analysis to investigate political patterns and policy results. The central argument is that the ideological structure of Iran's political system has served as a significant barrier to social policy development, ultimately undermining social cohesion. With its specific interpretation of "citizenship rights," this ideological framework has constrained the state's ability to address social needs and ensure equitable access to resources effectively.