Designing a framework for enhancing Iran's social resilience in the face of regional hybrid threats

Document Type : Original

Authors

Department of International Relations, Faculty of Law and Political Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

In the complex security environment of West Asia, enhancing Iran's social resilience, has become a strategic imperative. This paper, transcending conventional approaches, designs a framework for enhancing social resilience capable of transforming these external shocks into an opportunity to bolster "systemic immunity" and achieve a "resilient ecosystem". The central research question is: What are the fundamental dimensions and components that underpin an effective framework for this goal, and how can it be operationalized? To address this question, a mixed-methods methodology was employed, combining the Delphi technique and Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA). First, the dimensions and components of the framework were identified and validated through the Delphi technique with a panel of experts. Subsequently, IPA was utilized to assess the current status of these components, which were then mapped onto a strategic matrix. The findings reveal that Iranian society, by leveraging its "indigenous strategic assets"—particularly in "self-reliance in strategic technologies" and a "culture of sacrifice and responsibility"—has achieved a high level of efficacy. Concurrently, the IPA identifies that the components of highest importance, namely "the realization of social justice" and "the capacity for people-centric participation", constitute the primary priorities for investment and enhancement. Accordingly, the primary contribution of this paper is the introduction of a diagnostic-strategic model. It posits that the pathway to enhancing resilience lies not so much in the allocation of new resources, but rather in mobilizing public capacities and focusing on "networked and participatory governance". This people-centric mechanism, while deepening social cohesion in the face of threats, facilitates the realization of a resilient ecosystem.

Keywords

Main Subjects

موضوع: سیاست

حوزة موضوعی: ایران، غرب آسیا

Main Object: Politics

Scope: Iran, West Asia

References

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Journal of Countries Studies
Volume 4, Issue 3
Special Issue of Israel Confrontation approach with the World
2026
Pages 599-631

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 September 2025
  • Revise Date: 07 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 18 October 2025
  • First Publish Date: 05 November 2025
  • Publish Date: 22 November 2026

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