Evaluation of the socio-economic performance of local management organizations (dehiaris) in order to achieve sustainable rural development (case study: villages of Babolsar city)

Authors

• Mohammad Shiekhiyan Azizi ¹
• HAMID JAFARI ²
• katayon alizadeh ³

¹ PhD Student in Geography and Rural Planning, Department of Geography, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran

² Associate Professor of Geography and Rural Planning, Department of Geography, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

³ Associate Professor of Geography and Urban Planning, Department of Geography, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran.

10.30495/jzpm.2024.32905.4311

Abstract

Nearly two decades have passed since the establishment and operation of village administration organizations in the country. These organizations play a significant role in rural development through village management and are responsible for organizing and guiding the rural community and environment. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the economic and social performance of these entities on achieving sustainable development in the rural areas of Babolsar County. The research is applied in terms of its objective and descriptive-analytical in terms of method, with data collected through field surveys using questionnaires and documentary studies. The statistical population includes 58 villages with village administrations, of which 20% (12 villages with a total of 6,234 households) were selected as the sample. According to Cochran's formula, 362 questionnaires were completed by household heads. Based on the characteristics of the statistical population, a stratified sampling method proportional to size was used, where each village represented a stratum and each household head was considered a sample unit. The results of the Wilcoxon test indicate that the median of the economic index (2.91) is below the desired average (3) and the significance level (0.991) is greater than 0.05, suggesting that the economic impact of village administrations on sustainable rural development is not significant. In contrast, the median of the social index (3.38) is above the average (3) and the significance level of the test is less than 0.05, indicating a positive and significant impact of village administrations in the social domain on sustainable rural development. In other words, the social performance of village administrations is evaluated as more effective than their economic performance.
Extended Abstract
 
Introduction
Dehyaris, as local administrative bodies, bear numerous responsibilities, including improving the condition of villages and enhancing the quality of life for villagers, which are among their most important tasks. Given the significance of sustainable development and the role of Dehyaris in achieving this goal, assessing their performance can provide valuable insights into the existing challenges and opportunities. In Babolsar County, which is considered one of the more dynamic rural areas in the country, Dehyaris play a significant role in steering developmental processes. This study aims to analyze the performance of Dehyaris in various economic, social, and environmental aspects to gain a better understanding of their impacts on sustainable rural development.
 
Methodology
This study employs both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis. Data were gathered through questionnaires, in-depth interviews with Dehyars and local officials, as well as field studies. Twelve villages in Babolsar County were selected as the sample for examination. Data analysis was conducted using statistical software, and the results were presented in descriptive and analytical formats.
 
Results and Discussion
Economic Dimension: In the economic dimension, Dehyaris have played a crucial role in creating job opportunities, developing small and medium-sized industries, and supporting agriculture and livestock. However, economic challenges still persist, including limited financial resources, lack of appropriate facilities for developing rural businesses, and issues related to market access for products. The findings indicate that while Dehyaris have been effective in increasing rural incomes, achieving sustainable economic development requires more comprehensive planning and greater governmental support.
Social Dimension: In the social dimension, Dehyaris have contributed significantly to improving public spaces, enhancing social infrastructure such as schools and healthcare centers, and strengthening social cohesion among villagers. However, challenges such as youth migration to urban areas, a lack of cultural and recreational facilities, and the absence of coherent programs to strengthen social participation remain as barriers to sustainable social development in these areas.
In the discussion and analysis of the results, it was found that the performance of Dehyaris in all three dimensions—economic, social, and environmental—has its strengths and weaknesses. Economically, despite the efforts of Dehyaris to create job opportunities and increase income, the lack of comprehensive programs and financial difficulties has been identified as major obstacles. Socially, Dehyaris have achieved successes in improving infrastructure and enhancing social cohesion, but more programs are needed to strengthen social participation and prevent migration.
 
Conclusion
Based on the findings, several recommendations have been made to enhance the performance of Dehyaris in the context of sustainable rural development. One of the most important recommendations is the need for increased financial and technical support for Dehyaris. Such support could include allocating more budgetary resources, providing appropriate banking facilities, and creating educational programs for Dehyars. Additionally, strengthening cooperation between Dehyaris and governmental and non-governmental organizations could improve performance and increase the effectiveness of Dehyaris.
In the social dimension, it is recommended to implement programs aimed at reducing youth migration to cities by creating local job opportunities and increasing cultural and recreational facilities in villages. Furthermore, strengthening social participation and engaging the community through educational and informational programs could improve social quality of life and enhance cohesion in rural communities.
In the environmental dimension, it is advised that Dehyaris develop and implement more programs for the protection of natural resources and combating climate change. These programs could include promoting sustainable agriculture, optimizing water resource management, and providing environmental education to the public.
Overall, the results of this research indicate that Dehyaris, as local administrative bodies, play a significant role in the sustainable rural development of Babolsar County. However, to fully achieve the goals of sustainable development, more comprehensive planning, increased governmental support, and strengthened public participation are needed. This research can serve as a reference for local planners and policymakers to improve the performance of Dehyaris and realize sustainable rural development.

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Keywords

• Evaluation
• sustainable rural development
• rural management
• Dehyari
• Babolsar city

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