Explaining and Evaluating the Role of Government in the Political Development of Counties with an Emphasis on Governorates: A Case Study of the Counties of Aligudarz, Dorud, and Azna
Keywords:
Government, Governorate, Political Development, Political Participation, Lorestan CountiesAbstract
Political development in developing societies, particularly in Iran, is largely dependent on governmental approaches and functions. In this regard, governorates, as the highest representatives of the central government at the county level, play a key role in coordinating, supervising, and facilitating political development processes. The present study was conducted with the aim of examining the role and impact of governorates on political development in the counties of Aligudarz, Dorud, and Azna in Lorestan Province. In terms of purpose, this study is applied research, and in terms of approach, it is quantitative. Data were collected through a survey method using a researcher-made questionnaire administered to all employees of the governorates of the three counties (125 individuals through a census method). The reliability of the questionnaire was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient (0.91). Data analysis was performed using one-sample t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Duncan’s post hoc test. The findings indicated that the mean overall index of political development in all three counties was significantly higher than the average level (Dorud = 3.82, Azna = 3.62, Aligudarz = 3.49). Among the sub-indices, “women’s presence” and “government efficiency” had the highest means, whereas “political participation” had the lowest mean. A statistically significant difference among the governorates was observed only in the sub-index of “political participation,” with the Dorud governorate demonstrating better performance. The results suggest that governorates play an effective role in facilitating political development; however, they face weaknesses in attracting political participation, particularly in rural areas, as well as structural limitations. Decentralization, meritocracy, and strengthening local media are among the policy recommendations proposed in this study.
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