Quarterly of Geographical Research

Aims: Spatial justice is a concept that does not have a clear and comprehensive definition in any intellectual tradition. In its most comprehensive form, justice is associated with concepts such as equality, harmony, fairness, balance, equity, and rights. This study sought to diagnose the pathology of empowerment programs related to spatial justice in the rural areas of Savadkuh and North Savadkuh counties.
Methodology: This survey research was conducted in 2025 among rural residents and professionals in the cities of North Savadkuh and North Savadkuh. The sample size for the villagers was determined to be 424 using Cochran's formula. Data were collected through a field survey, with questionnaires distributed to specialists and rural residents in the two cities of North Savadkuh and North Savadkuh. Villagers were sampled using a simple random cluster method, and specialists were sampled using a purposive sampling method. A one-sample t-test was used for villagers, and the DANP model was used for specialists to analyze the data.
Findings: Current empowerment programs in Savadkuh villages were rated below average in terms of spatial justice. Mountain villages (except in the environment) suffered less damage than foothill villages. The most important problems were inefficient management, inequitable resource distribution, low public participation, inappropriate programs for local needs, and weak monitoring.
Conclusion: Rural empowerment programs lack equity, participation, and sustainability. To succeed, they need to improve management, distribute resources equitably, increase public participation, adapt programs to local needs, and strengthen monitoring.