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Morteza Khajevand, Mousa Kamanroudi Kojouri,
Volume 14, Issue 52 (9-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 52 (9-2025)
Abstract
Objective: This study analyzes the factors attracting migrants—predominantly from rural areas—to Abhar, focusing on economic opportunities, improved living conditions, and access to suitable employment. It also examines the socio-economic and cultural impacts of migration on the city’s infrastructure and local communities.
Methods: The research adopts a descriptive–analytical approach with an applied purpose. The statistical population comprises 34887 households (household heads) residing in Abhar, from which a sample of 380 households was determined using Cochran’s formula. Data, both quantitative and qualitative, were collected through library–documentary research and field methods (interviews and questionnaires) using systematic random sampling. The study covers the period from 1956 to 2021. Data analysis employed SPSS software, multiple regression analysis, and spatial data processing through Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Results: Results show that 57.63% of migrants to Abhar originated from rural areas, while 42.37% came from urban areas. The highest proportion of migrants came from within Abhar County (47.63%), and the lowest from Soltaniyeh (1.58%). Economic factors (β = 0.49) were the strongest predictors of migration, while recreational–tourism factors (β = 0.23) had the least impact.
Conclusions: The main drivers of migration to Abhar include economic opportunities, healthcare services, natural resources, infrastructure, education, and socio-cultural amenities. Migration flows are predominantly from within Abhar County, adjacent areas of Zanjan Province, and nearby counties, indicating a high concentration of development in Abhar. Given the ongoing centralization of resources and opportunities, migration is expected to continue rising, further exacerbating regional disparities. The study recommends reducing these disparities by distributing employment opportunities, services, and resources more evenly between Abhar and surrounding rural areas.
Reza Movahedi, Mehrdad Pouya, Taraneh Sarami Foroushani, Maryam Armand,
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Abstract
Objective: Nomadic tourism generates mutual benefits for both tourists and nomadic communities. The unique natural and cultural features of nomads' living environments have made these communities remarkable and distinctive tourist attractions. Nomadic tribes are recognized as one of the most significant tourism assets. Therefore, establishing specialized nomadic tourism centers in Hamadan Province can generate income, create employment, attract tourists, preserve customs and traditions, empower local communities, and revitalize lost nomadic cultural heritage. The purpose of this study is to conduct a strategic analysis for establishing nomadic tourism centers in Hamadan Province.
Methods: Given its objectives, this study is an applied research project employing a mixed-method approach (qualitative–quantitative with qualitative priority). The statistical population consisted of two groups: experts and nomads of Hamadan Province. All 80 experts participated in the study, while 105 nomads were selected using the Morgan table from the four counties of Nahavand, Hamadan, Tuyserkan, and Bahar. Data collection tools included document analysis, interviews, observations, and questionnaires designed to assess the feasibility of establishing nomadic tourism centers in the province. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis of interviews, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, t-tests, SWOT analysis, and the Scenario Wizard technique to determine strategies for developing nomadic tourism.
Results: Results indicated that the appropriate strategy for establishing tourism centers in Hamadan Province -based on the third quadrant of the strategic matrix- is defensive. This suggests that creating nomadic tourism centers faces numerous threats and weaknesses. Therefore, any action in this domain requires caution and a comprehensive approach to securing necessary conditions. Additionally, according to the preferred scenario (Scenario 1), prioritizing technical infrastructure and providing necessary facilities to support nomadic tourism constitute the main driving forces for establishing these centers and attracting future tourists.
Conclusions: Nomads in Hamadan Province hold a positive and supportive attitude toward the establishment of nomadic tourism centers, and there is a willingness among local communities to accept such initiatives. However, the process faces several threats and weaknesses that must be addressed before planning and implementation. These include improving access routes and transportation infrastructure, addressing deficiencies in tourism -particularly ecotourism- facilities, providing essential amenities and services, enhancing public and tourist awareness of regional potentials, and ensuring effective publicity and information dissemination.
Methods: Given its objectives, this study is an applied research project employing a mixed-method approach (qualitative–quantitative with qualitative priority). The statistical population consisted of two groups: experts and nomads of Hamadan Province. All 80 experts participated in the study, while 105 nomads were selected using the Morgan table from the four counties of Nahavand, Hamadan, Tuyserkan, and Bahar. Data collection tools included document analysis, interviews, observations, and questionnaires designed to assess the feasibility of establishing nomadic tourism centers in the province. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis of interviews, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, t-tests, SWOT analysis, and the Scenario Wizard technique to determine strategies for developing nomadic tourism.
Results: Results indicated that the appropriate strategy for establishing tourism centers in Hamadan Province -based on the third quadrant of the strategic matrix- is defensive. This suggests that creating nomadic tourism centers faces numerous threats and weaknesses. Therefore, any action in this domain requires caution and a comprehensive approach to securing necessary conditions. Additionally, according to the preferred scenario (Scenario 1), prioritizing technical infrastructure and providing necessary facilities to support nomadic tourism constitute the main driving forces for establishing these centers and attracting future tourists.
Conclusions: Nomads in Hamadan Province hold a positive and supportive attitude toward the establishment of nomadic tourism centers, and there is a willingness among local communities to accept such initiatives. However, the process faces several threats and weaknesses that must be addressed before planning and implementation. These include improving access routes and transportation infrastructure, addressing deficiencies in tourism -particularly ecotourism- facilities, providing essential amenities and services, enhancing public and tourist awareness of regional potentials, and ensuring effective publicity and information dissemination.
Mehdi Ramezanzadehlasboyee, Masoud Samian,
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Abstract
Objective: The present study aims to examine the factors influencing the development of agritourism and to prioritize the counties of Mazandaran Province based on their agritourism potential.
Methods: This applied research adopts an exploratory mixed-methods design (qualitative–quantitative) implemented in two phases. In the first phase, to identify and extract factors affecting agritourism development, purposive sampling was used. Based on theoretical saturation, 25 semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts, including university faculty members, researchers, and managers and specialists from the Agricultural Jihad Organization and the Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization of Mazandaran Province. Selection criteria included professional experience, research background in agritourism, and familiarity with Mazandaran’s agricultural and tourism capacities. Content analysis using open and axial coding was employed to identify the influencing factors. In the second phase, the TOPSIS multi-criteria decision-making method was used to prioritize Mazandaran counties in terms of agritourism potential.
Results: According to the results, multiple factors contribute to agritourism development, each playing a role in promoting sustainable rural development. Deep semi-structured interviews identified five major components influencing agritourism development in Mazandaran: 1. Economic and infrastructural factors, 2. Socio-cultural factors, 3. Policy and managerial factors, 4. Promotional and educational factors, 5. Environmental and natural factors.
The TOPSIS analysis revealed that among Mazandaran’s 22 counties, five—Amol, Babol, Behshahr, Tonekabon, and Sari—possess very high agritourism potential. Ten counties—including Babolsar, Juybar, Chalous, Ramsar, Fereydunkenar, Qaemshahr, Kelardasht, Mahmudabad, Nur, and Nowshahr—showed high potential. Three counties (Simorgh, Abbasabad, and Neka) were categorized as moderate, while four counties (Savadkuh, North Savadkuh, Galugah, and Miandorud) exhibited low agritourism potential. These findings underscore the need for differentiated planning based on each county’s capacities.
Conclusions: Mazandaran Province accounts for 2.3% of Iran’s cultivated land yet produces 7.8% of the country’s agricultural output—approximately three times the national average. With 218,000 hectares of rice cultivation and 1.187 million tons of paddy production (36.6% of the national area), Mazandaran holds the leading position in rice production. In citrus cultivation, the province ranks fourth in cultivated area (157,000 ha) and second in production (2,800 tons). Given this strong agricultural base, alongside substantial tourism attractions, recognizing the factors influencing agritourism development is essential for formulating effective strategies. Furthermore, prioritizing the counties based on their agritourism potential, as undertaken in this study, can provide valuable guidance for policymakers and planners.
Fatemeh Naghi Biranvand, Mansour Ghanian, Moslem Savari,
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Abstract
Objective: Rural management is a key factor in the rural development process. However, certain beliefs and attitudes held by local managers may act as significant obstacles to development. The attitudes of local managers and the identification and analysis of their mental barriers can greatly influence the course of rural development. This study aims to identify the causes of rural underdevelopment from the perspective of local managers in Khorramabad County.
Methods: This study was designed and conducted using a quantitative research method and is classified as an applied study. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey. The statistical population included all local managers of villages in Khorramabad County (N = 700). Based on the Krejcie–Morgan table, a sample size of 250 was determined. Data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire. The reliability and validity of the questionnaire were confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha and content validity methods, respectively. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and LISREL.
Results: According to local managers, the most critical problems of rural management in the study area are ethnocentrism, lack of trust in interpersonal relations, and excessive dependency on the government. Results obtained from Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) indicate that the majority of the model’s fit indices are statistically acceptable. Furthermore, mean comparison tests showed no significant differences in local managers’ views regarding Rogers’ peasant subculture elements based on different levels of education or age groups.
Conclusions: The results show that managers with higher education levels and younger managers share similar views on rural issues. Therefore, changing existing attitudes and beliefs is essential for achieving sustainable rural development. Some behavioral patterns of local managers align with the characteristics and theoretical framework of the peasant subculture, indicating that they may be influenced by cultural and social factors within local subcultures. These influences can affect their decision-making and approaches toward rural development.
Behnaz Aflatoonian, Ali Akbar Majdi, Hossein Mirzaei, Behnoosh Aflatoonian,
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Abstract
Objective: The tourism industry can enhance villages' economies and contribute to national development by increasing income and creating jobs. The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between the geographical position and spatial interconnectedness of villages and their tourism performance.
Methods: This qualitative study examines 27 villages across Iran. Data analysis involved simulating the selected villages using CityEngine software. Maps were prepared using OpenStreetMap and georeferenced mapping. The statistical population consisted of scholarly works in Persian and English related to rural tourism and development. The sample included nine Persian and three English articles, selected through purposive sampling. A chi-square goodness-of-fit test was used to examine frequency differences, and Somers’ d correlation test in SPSS 28 was employed to analyze the association between ordinal variables.
Results: Tourism conditions across economic, cultural, and physical dimensions were found to be unfavorable, and neglect of local issues occurred significantly more than expected. Villages with weak spatial cohesion experienced poorer tourism outcomes. Increasing spatial cohesion was associated with improvements in economic, cultural, and physical aspects of tourism. This relationship showed a strong statistical correlation.
Conclusions: The results highlight the crucial role of spatial cohesion in improving tourism conditions. Failure to consider this factor can lead to social fragmentation and social withdrawal in rural areas. Therefore, managerial planning is needed to strengthen tourism in villages with weak spatial integration. Additionally, tourism awareness efforts should target both visitors and residents; a lack of coordination between these groups can hinder tourism growth. Achieving positive economic, social, and cultural transformation in rural areas requires innovative research tailored to local conditions.
Fatemeh Touranie, Kamal Ataie Solout, Hamid Amirnejad,
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Abstract
Objective: In recent years, environmental considerations have gained significant importance across all sectors of the country, particularly in rural areas. The present study aims to estimate the economic damage costs of air pollution caused by the emission of unpleasant odors from pharmaceutical production in Sari County using the contingent valuation method.
Methods: This study examines the effects of economic, social, and environmental variables on individuals’ acceptance or rejection of proposed bid amounts in relation to their willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) for improving or tolerating the current air quality conditions surrounding the antibiotic manufacturing plant in Sari County. To this end, Cochran’s sampling method was used for sample selection, and a one-and-a-half-bounded dichotomous choice format was applied to collect preference data within the contingent valuation framework. The extracted data were then used to estimate the corresponding valuation functions.
Results: In the WTP model, the variables (1) homeowner–tenant status, (2) educational level, and (3) membership in non-governmental organizations had positive and statistically significant effects on the acceptance of bid amounts, while the bid price variable hurt individuals’ willingness to pay for improving the surrounding air quality of the antibiotic plant. In the WTA model, the variables (1) bid price, (2) ethical–goal orientation, and (3) individual monthly income had positive and significant effects on willingness to accept compensation for maintaining the current air quality, whereas (1) age and (2) educational level had negative effects.
Conclusions: The mean WTA and WTP values were estimated at 791.339 million and 32.705 million tomans per year, respectively. These amounts represent the estimated economic damage costs imposed on communities surrounding this industrial facility as a result of air pollution.
Zahra Alinejad, Mohamad Rahim Forouzeh, Hannaneh Mohammadi Kangarani, Hassan Yeganeh,
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Volume 14, Issue 53 (12-2025)
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to examine how traditional knowledge regarding the use of medicinal plants is preserved among indigenous people and to analyze the learning and teaching networks of this knowledge in Shah Kuh-e Sofla village using a network analysis approach.
Methods: To identify indigenous knowledge transmission methods, the learning and teaching networks related to medicinal plants in Shah Kuh-e Sofla were analyzed using network analysis. Semi-structured interviews and participatory observations were conducted with 53 residents during the spring and summer of 2023 and 2024 (1402–1403 Iranian calendar). Common network indicators such as degree centrality, betweenness centrality, density, and MDS were calculated, and visualizations were produced using UCINET and NetDraw software.
Results: Results show that the majority of indigenous residents prioritize medicinal plants as their primary treatment for diseases and possess knowledge of their therapeutic properties and processing methods. Network analysis revealed that mothers and grandmothers hold key roles in learning networks, while children and daughters-in-law dominate the teaching networks. This suggests vertical, intergenerational knowledge transfer within family-based rural communities, highlighting the pivotal role of women.
Conclusions: Given the proven value and hereditary transmission of indigenous knowledge, its documentation, preservation, and continuation are essential. The methodology used can be applied in other rural and nomadic areas to identify key knowledge holders and enhance the effective preservation and transmission of valuable, region-specific traditional knowledge.
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