Qualitative Analysis of the Political and Sociological Factors of Convergence and Divergence among the Baloch Ethnic Group
Keywords:
Sociological factors, convergence and divergence, Baloch people, grand theory, southeast IranAbstract
The present study aims to identify the sociological factors contributing to convergence and divergence among the Baloch ethnic group. In terms of purpose, this research is applied, and in terms of methodology, it belongs to the category of qualitative methods. The data collection instrument was structured interviews conducted with experts. The statistical population consisted of specialists and scholars in political science and sociology. Using the Delphi method and based on theoretical saturation, 15 experts were selected for interviews. For data analysis, qualitative analysis and interview coding were conducted using MAXQDA software. The findings of the study regarding the sociological factors of convergence and divergence among the Baloch ethnic group led to the identification of 50 concepts through open coding, 17 axial categories and sub-components through axial coding, and 2 selective categories and main components through selective coding. Based on the coding results, eight key factors were identified as the most important drivers of convergence among the Baloch in southeastern Iran: (1) equitable developmental policies by the government in Balochistan, (2) political participation of the Baloch ethnic group, (3) security and political stability in Balochistan, (4) religious and identity-based commonalities of the Baloch with other ethnic groups, (5) the role of media and education in Baloch ethnic integration, (6) Baloch interethnic relations and interethnic marriages, (7) border trade in Balochistan and the creation of job opportunities, and (8) the positive role of Baloch elites. Furthermore, nine primary factors were identified as the main contributors to divergence among the Baloch in the southeastern region of the country: (1) systematic discrimination and inequality in Balochistan, (2) opposition groups in Balochistan, (3) poverty and deprivation in Sistan and Balochistan Province, (4) smuggling and the informal economy in Balochistan, (5) linguistic, ethnic, and cultural conflicts, (6) religious differences, (7) Baloch traditionalism versus urbanization and identity change, (8) the negative influence of foreign actors on the Baloch ethnic group, and (9) the rise of extremist Baloch nationalism.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Abbas Jahanabadian (Author); Yaser Kahrazeh; Parvizreza Mirlotfi (Author)
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