Persian

About Geographical Research

This Journal is Published in Persian. 
Geographical Research journal is an open-access, online, peer-reviewed journal that has been published by the Afarand Scholarly Publishing Institute. It is a pleasure to announce that the Geographical Research journal has published more than one thousand articles from valuable academic achievements of researchers and experts since 1986 (1365 Hijri). Geographical Research journal aims to produce and promote sciences related to different disciplines of geography, including urban and rural planning, political geography, natural geography, economic geography, and related fields of geography, in order to exchange scientific and research findings between specialists and scientific and research centers both inside and outside Iran.

Owner & Director-in-Charge: Professor Mohammad Hossein Papoli Yazdi

Scientific Supporter: Amir Kabir Research Institute

Publishers: Afarand Scholarly Publishing Institute

Financial Supporter: Amayesh & Tosee Shargh Co.
Publishing Period: 4 Issues per Year
Costs: APC Statement (Persian)

Language: Persian Full-text / English Abstract (250 Words) / English Expanded Abstract (1500 Words)
Social Media: LinkedIn; Research Gate; Telegram

33.3 days
Submission to First Review
66 days
Submission to Accept
29.8 days
Accept to Publish
46.5 %
Acceptance Rate
Mohammad Hossein Papoli Yazdi; PhD
Professor of Geography, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
Fatemeh Vossoughi; PhD
Associate Editor; Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
Scientific Supporters
Amir Kabir Research Institute
Articles

Analysis of Factors Influencing the Physical Development of Ilam City

T. Mansourian, M. Shams, A. Malek Hhoseini
Aims: The unbalanced physical expansion of Ilam City can be attributed to various issues, including regional imbalance, rapid urbanization, the impact of war, fragmented urban management, and inadequate supervision of urban development projects. The aim of this study was to examine the factors that impact the physical development of Ilam City.
Methodology: This study employed an applied research methodology and was done in Ilam City over the period of 2023-2024. The study instrument employed was a questionnaire developed by the researcher. A compilation of criteria and indicators that impact physical development was made in order to create the questionnaire. Consequently, a survey comprising of 34 questions was created, utilizing a Likert scale with four response alternatives. In order to evaluate the questionnaire's validity, it was administered to a group of 18 specialists. A comprehensive questionnaire consisting of 5 indexes and 30 components was compiled and thereafter delivered to the inhabitants. The sample size was calculated to be 357 persons using the Cochran formula. The study samples were chosen by the method of simple random sampling. The data were evaluated using statistical methods such as a t-test, Pearson correlation coefficient, and stepwise regression coefficients.
Findings: The physical development of Ilam City was found to have a substantial correlation with several aspects, including economic, social and cultural, environmental, physical, and managerial factors. The physical evolution of Ilam City was primarily influenced by environmental (natural), economic, managerial, physical, and social and cultural aspects, in that order.
Conclusion: the physical development of Ilam City has been mostly influenced by environmental variables.
 
View Abstract

Preparation and Integration of Maps and Digital Data Related to Water Capacities

H. Behrawan, F. Sharifi
Aims: Knowledge of water capacities is one of the main components of decision-making for optimal use of resources, watersheds and prevention of damage from natural events such as flood and drought and simultaneous management of water supply and demand. In this study, extraction of physical parameters, conversion of rainfall point data into regional data, analysis of evaporation and transpiration data, and aggregation of data in a database in order to develop a spatial database, integration of water capacity maps were investigated.
Methodology: The current research is a quantitative study in Hamedan Province and analyzes different spatial and temporal data. Therefore, the preparation and integration of the water capacity map and data in the grade seven watersheds located in Hamadan province, which was located in the humid and semi-humid climate zone, was done using geological, physiographic, rainfall, evaporation and discharge information.
Findings: The maximum specific runoff in watershed No. 2235 is equal to 44.2 liters per second per square kilometer in May, and the lowest runoff in watershed No. 1327 is equal to 0.0 liters per second per square kilometer in August. The base flow index varies from 45.9 to 59.59, the maximum of which is related to watershed number 1327 and the minimum is related to watershed number 4122. The maximum snow line in April corresponds to watershed number 4122 at an altitude of 3954.7 meters and the minimum in February is 1363.2 meters in watershed number 1327.
Conclusion: Permeability has medium to good status. The runoff threshold of the study area is located in humid and semi-humid climate. The maximum snow line is in April and the minimum is in February. The snow retention line in this month is at the lowest height compared to other cold months of the year.
 
View Abstract

Analysis of Environmental Factors on the Spatial Structure of Industrial Estates in Alborz Province Using the ELECTRE III Method

M. Khaki, M. Fathi, M. Mallaei
Aims: Industrial estates are essential for the economic advancement of a nation and should be examined from multiple angles. While the geographical environment of these estates has been extensively studied from multiple perspectives, their internal features have received comparatively less scrutiny. Hence, the objective of this paper is to ascertain the spatial preferences within the internal organization of industrial estates in Alborz Province by employing the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology.
Methodology: This study was conducted in 2023 with a focus on practical applications. The study strategy was established by utilizing the Analytical Hierarchy strategy (AHP) and Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) techniques to identify and prioritize variables. After conducting a literature review, 14 primary variables were selected using the Delphi technique. The SANNA system was then used to assess the priority of these variables in the geographical structure of the "Simin Dasht" and "Baharstan" industrial estates. The study methodology involved extracting spatial data using the space syntax method and giving it priority.
Findings: The road network is the most important environmental factor in determining the spatial organization of industrial estates. Following the road network, the priority of other criteria, in descending order, includes visual connection, grain size, architectural quality, building density, external connection, climate, topography, infrastructure, and greenery. Furthermore, the current spatial arrangement of industrial estates in Alborz Province excels in terms of "visual connectivity" and "road infrastructure," but falls short in terms of "architectural excellence" and "green spaces."
Conclusion: The spatial design of the area is primarily influenced by three key factors: accessibility and connection, physical structure, and geomorphology. Out all the sub-variables, visual connection, road network, and grain size are the most important.
 
View Abstract

Urban Epidemiological Resilience Modeling Based on PLS Structural Equations, Tabriz, Iran

Gh. Rafiee , A. Maleki , Y. Shahbazi, A. Molaei
Aims: Throughout the preceding century, the proliferation of pandemics, including Sars, Ebola, and notably Corona, has precipitated numerous crises within the global context. In addressing such urban challenges, the exploration of urban resilience and the implementation of non-pharmaceutical interventions against epidemics may present a viable pathway. Accordingly, this study was undertaken to examine the influence of urban physical structure indicators on urban epidemiological resilience.
Methodology: The current study was of a practical nature and was carried out in Tabriz from early April to late June 2019, utilizing data pertinent to the Corona virus. Relevant indicators were derived from an exhaustive systematic literature review. Subsequently, the identified indicators were assessed using available statistics from 41 urban districts of Tabriz, and the resultant data were analyzed through the structural equation modeling approach to ascertain the interrelationships among the variables.
Findings: The determinants pertaining to food accessibility and the inadequacies in quarantine protocols, in conjunction with access to healthcare services, demographic and residential density, as well as social and environmental pollution, exhibited coefficients of 0.537, 0.488, 0.273, 0.232, and 0.146 respectively, thereby demonstrating a substantial influence on urban epidemiological resilience.
Conclusion: A considerable proportion of the variations observed in the epidemic is elucidated through the analysis of the parameters related to demographic and residential density, food accessibility and quarantine inadequacies, healthcare service availability, and both environmental and social pollution.
 
View Abstract

Explaining the Revitalization of Historical Areas in Shiraz with a Foresight Approach

S. Ghezeli Jahromi, F. Ahmadi, M. Farrokhi , Z. Talebi
Aims: This study aimed to revitalize the historical districts of Shiraz using a foresight methodology, with a focus on the year 2051.
Methodology: Conducted in 2023 (1402 in the Islamic calendar), the research employed a foresight approach to analyze Shiraz's historical areas. A researcher-developed questionnaire was utilized for data collection, beginning with a review of existing literature to identify key indicators affecting the revitalization process. These indicators were used to design the research questionnaire, which was validated using the Delphi method. The study's sample consisted of 30 experts in urban planning, selected through purposive sampling. To assess the key driving forces, foresight tools such as MicMac and Scenario Wizard were applied.
Findings: Fourteen significant factors impacting the revitalization of Shiraz's historical fabric were identified, including the degradation of historically significant buildings, limited financial resources for restoration, declining public appreciation of historical buildings, and the underutilization of tourist attractions in these areas. Among the six potential scenarios, the fourth scenario, which exhibited 13 favorable conditions, was deemed the most optimal, followed by the sixth scenario with 12 favorable conditions. The remaining scenarios (first, second, third, and fifth) were classified as critical due to their negative status. The fourth scenario, with a desirability score of 21.10, was the most advantageous, while the fifth scenario, with a critical rate of 33.33%, represented the worst-case scenario.
Conclusion: Six possible scenarios, each representing different combinations of favorable, static, and critical conditions, may arise in the revitalization of Shiraz's historical districts. The favorable condition is the most likely to occur, followed by the static state, with the critical condition being the least probable.
View Abstract

Energy Performance Modeling of Residential Isfahan Apartments Based on Geometric Characteristics

O. Heydaripour , M.S. Taher Tolou Del
Aim: The exponential increase in energy consumption in the residential sector and the unregulated design and construction of residential apartments in Isfahan have led to a critical energy consumption situation in the city. Therefore, the aim of this research was to model the relationship between the geometric characteristics of typical residential apartments and their energy performance for use in urban planning.
Methodology: This was an applied study carried out in 2024 using quantitative research method including modeling, building energy simulation, regression modeling, and optimization. Geometric factors affecting building energy consumption were identified, coded for automated modeling, and entered into the cyclic process of performance-based computational design. The tools used in this research include Rhino software, the Grasshopper environment, and the Ladybug Tools, Colibri, and Wallacei plugins.
Findings: The energy performance models could predict actual residential apartment energy consumption with over 88% accuracy and a correlation coefficient greater than 0.7. Based on the findings, increasing the land plot area led to a decrease in energy consumption per square meter. Additionally, a nearly square building layout with limited north-south elongation resulted in optimal energy performance. Reducing the height of internal spaces and maintaining a zero-degree orientation angle also contributed to optimal energy performance.
Conclusion: The geometric characteristics of apartment housing significantly impact building energy consumption. Increasing the built-up area, having a length-to-width ratio close to one, a zero-degree orientation angle, and reducing the height of internal spaces in urban planning and municipal construction regulations reduces energy consumption in Isfahan.
 
View Abstract

Role of School Quality in the Sustainability of Rural Population Settlements; in Isfahan County with a Sustainability Approach

R. Mohammadtaghi, M. Hamidi Toghchi
Aims: The migration of rural populations to urban centers and mega-cities is a hallmark of the modern era, driven by the rapid expansion of urbanization. This phenomenon has not only led to a decline in rural populations but also raised concerns regarding threats to human dignity, challenges to inclusive social integration, and environmental degradation. This study aims to examine the role of school quality in attracting and retaining the rural population.
Methodology: This applied research was conducted in Isfahan in 2023. Data collection was performed using both library and field resources, followed by analytical processing through SPSS, structural equation modeling, and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools.
Findings: The analysis revealed a significant disparity in satisfaction levels between the residents of Isfahan city and those in its rural surroundings. When exploring the reasons for student family migration, education emerged as the dominant factor, with a correlation coefficient of 0.94, surpassing all other variables. The role of school principals was also identified as crucial, indicating that addressing only the academic needs of students is insufficient to curb migration. Instead, the involvement of motivated and innovative school leaders capable of addressing the holistic educational needs of students is essential.
Conclusion: Variables related to education, health, management, and community participation exhibited a random or uneven distribution across the city, lacking a consistent pattern. Among the factors influencing migration, education emerged as the most significant driver, while economic factors demonstrated an inverse relationship, contrary to common assumptions. The economy plays a limited role in motivating migration, with education being the primary motivator for families relocating from rural areas.
 
View Abstract

Effect of Urban Planning Components of Social Housing on Social Sustainability

M.A. Ahmadi Bonakdar, A. Saghatoleslami , S.M. Seyedolhoseini, M. Daneshvar
Aims: This study aims to evaluate the impact of urban planning components in social housing on enhancing social sustainability, focusing on the Mehr Housing project in Torbat Jam.
Methodology: The study was applied in nature and conducted in 2024. The target population consisted of residents of Torbat Jam district, totaling 267,671 individuals according to the latest population and housing census. Using Cochran's formula, a sample size of 383 respondents was determined, who were selected randomly from the available cases. The questionnaire was designed and validated by experts, with a Cronbach's alpha value of 0.989, indicating strong reliability and internal consistency. Data were analyzed using parametric methods in SPSS 20, and the Dimetel technique was employed to assess the relationships between various urban planning parameters of social housing, comparing them in pairs.
Findings: The analysis revealed that housing sustainability (mean = 3.65), social inclusion (mean = 3.63), access to adequate housing (mean = 3.62), and spatial efficiency (mean = 3.60) had a positive influence on improving social sustainability, in descending order of impact.
Conclusion: Factors such as social housing, housing sustainability, location, land use, and attention to low-income groups and the elderly were found to have the most significant influence on social sustainability. Conversely, elements like spatial efficiency, housing quality, modern technology, and participation in housing construction contributed to a decline in social sustainability levels in sealed housing environments.
 
View Abstract

Urban Governance Indicators Based on Islamic Principles: An Analytical Framework

Mohammad Ghandehari, Alireza Andalib, Zahra Sadat Zarabadi
Aims: The purpose of this article is to present an analytical framework for urban governance indicators based on the principles of Islam. Islamic principles constitute a comprehensive and extensive value system that determines laws and regulations for individual behavior and social order. Urban governance, as a multidimensional concept encompassing economic, social, and political aspects, significantly influences urban management and is manifested within legal and regulatory frameworks, institutional and managerial structures, and urban plans and programs.
Methodology: This article, relying on a comparative analysis method, first examines the concepts of urban governance and Islamic principles, and then proceeds to present an analytical framework consisting of key indicators for evaluating urban governance based on Islamic principles.
Results: The current indicators of urban governance implemented in cities of Iran are derived from global governance indicators and would be so useful based on the implementing according to the principles of Islamic worldview. The Islamic worldview encompasses principles of monotheism (unity and coherence in urban management and governance), prophethood (guiding the city and its inhabitants towards perfection), resurrection (having environments with strong religious influences), divine justice (social justice and fair distribution of resources and facilities in cities), and imamate (leadership and urban management based on Islamic values and ethics with reliance on religious democracy).
 
View Abstract

Providing a suitable model for empowering informal settlements in Herat - Afghanistan using MAXQDA software

J.A. Pouya, M.A. Shokouhi, B.A. Khakpoor
Aim: Informal settlements are a fundamental challenge in transitional cities, creating unfavorable conditions for their residents due to a lack of infrastructure and urban services. The aim of this research was to identify an appropriate model for empowering informal settlements in the city of Herat.
Background: Previous research has regarded empowerment as a factor for endogenous development in informal settlements; however, an authoritarian approach and the absence of comprehensive management have been among the reasons for the failure of empowerment initiatives in the past.
Method: This research was conducted using a qualitative method. The data collection tool was in-depth and semi-structured interviews, and qualitative content analysis was employed using MAXQDA software to analyze the extracted information. Semi-structured interviews with experts, managers, and staff from governmental and international organizations involved in urban management served as the primary data source for this research. For data analysis, open, axial, and selective coding methods were utilized.
Findings: Data analysis yielded 198 open codes and 69 conceptual codes, categorized into 11 subcategories and 2 main categories. The policy-making domain, one of the main categories, includes five subcategories: legislation, formalization of residence, integrated planning, coordination and mobilization of community organizations, and establishing mechanisms for coordinating relevant institutions. The executive domain, the second main category, encompasses six subcategories: institutional and managerial, socio-cultural and legal, physical development, provision of basic services, empowerment of residents, and strengthening the local economy.
Conclusion: The empowerment of informal settlements in the city of Herat follows a model that simultaneously addresses both policy-making and executive domains, incorporating multiple dimensions within each of the mentioned areas. This model is the product of the experiences and theories of experts and specialists in urban management and can serve as a practical model for empowering informal settlements in all cities of Afghanistan.
 
View Abstract

Investigating the Role of Influential Factors in the Formation of the Physical Structure of Villages in Shemiranat County

Mirmahdi Mahdavi Heris, Majid Vali Shariatpanahi, Tahmineh Daniali, Simin Armaghan, Ali Sistanipour
Aims: The aim of this research was to examine the factors influencing the physical formation of villages in the Shemiranat County.
Methodology: This research was conducted in 2024, with a case study of the villages in Shemiranat County. Using cluster sampling, the Rudbar Qasran rural district was selected, followed by the selection of seven villages: Niknam Deh, Ab Nik, Aminabad, Igel, Garmabdar, Bagh Gol, and Bayer. A questionnaire was designed based on a list of 8 main indicators and 45 sub-indicators, resulting in a 45-question survey using a 4-point Likert scale. To validate the questionnaire, several versions were reviewed by a group of experts, including university professors and relevant specialists [n=17]. The first target group consisted of rural planning experts [n=22], and the second group included the residents of the studied villages. The sample size was 2,399 people, and based on Cochran's formula, 318 individuals were selected for the study. Data were analyzed using the Shannon entropy method and paired t-tests.
Findings: In this study, 5 key indicators—environmental-physical, economic, socio-cultural, and political-managerial—along with 45 sub-indicators were examined. Access to financial resources, infrastructure development, and housing quality were considered the most important factors by both experts and residents. While some indicators were viewed differently by experts and residents, there was general agreement on many aspects. Economic and environmental indicators had the greatest impact on the physical structure of the villages, with access to financial resources, infrastructure development, climate, and water and soil resources being the most critical factors. Overall, indicators related to historical buildings and cultural elements were considered the least important in the cultural category.
Conclusion: Economic and environmental factors were identified as the most significant influences on the villages studied, according to both experts and local residents.
 
View Abstract

Assessment of Climate Comfort Conditions for Tourism in Hamadan Province

Mostafa Shayegan, Mohsen Ranjbar, Borna Reza, Azadeh Arbabi Sabzevari
Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the climate comfort conditions for tourism in Hamadan Province based on the Stress Index, Steadman-Tom (THI) Index, and CPI Index.
Methodology: This research was conducted in 2023 with a case study of Hamadan Province. The necessary climatic data were collected from meteorological stations within the study area. These data included key climatic variables such as temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and atmospheric pressure. The data collected spanned from 2004 to 2018. The meteorological stations studied included Hamadan, Tuyserkan, Asadabad, Razan, Famenin, Nahavand, Qahavand, Nojeh, and Malayer. After data collection, climate indices such as the Stress Index, THI, and CPI were calculated. Following the calculation of various indices, the data were analyzed across different time periods (such as different seasons) to identify which periods and areas offer more favorable climatic conditions for tourists.
Findings: Common features across the models studied include climate homogeneity and uniformity, the persistence of winter cold, climatic differences in spring and summer, unfavorable winter climate, and gradual and simultaneous climate changes. All three models indicated that climate changes in the Hamadan region have been generally gradual without sudden or severe fluctuations. This has resulted in uniform climatic conditions within each season, with no significant climate variations. These similarities suggest that despite methodological differences, all three indices arrived at similar conclusions regarding the climatic and thermal comfort conditions in Hamadan.
Conclusion: The combined results from the various indices suggest that in January and February of winter, almost all stations in the province indicate that the bioclimatic conditions for tourism are unsuitable, and March does not offer favorable conditions either. The best months for tourism in Hamadan Province are September, May, and June.
 
View Abstract

Explaining the effects of participatory urban planning in increasing livability and quality of urban life Case study: Yasouj city

hatam payam, yaghoub peyvastehgar, Ali Mehboudi

Objective: The present research was conducted with the aim of explaining the effects of participatory urban planning in increasing the livability and quality of urban life in a case study: Yasouj city.
Methodology: This research is practical in terms of purpose and was carried out in Yasuj city on the date of 1403. The studied statistical population includes all experts and specialists and university professors in this field. Based on this, 23 people were selected by purposeful sampling. In this regard, after setting up the questionnaire, it was given to several experts and elites of the society, and after confirming the validity by them, the questionnaire was prepared. Dimtel method was used to analyze the findings.
Findings: Based on the findings, indicators of participation in cultural affairs, (3/156), supervision of city council activities, (4/370), awareness of ideas and suggestions, (2/736), common values ​​and identity , (5/848), trust in related institutions, (5/132), is important.
Conclusion: In terms of variables related to participatory urban planning, trust variables have more effect and supervision has less effect on livability and quality of urban life. Also, sub-indices such as participation in the selection of urban managers, monitoring feedback and performance of projects, awareness of decision-making by urban managers, coherent cooperation, trust in related institutions have led to a decrease in livability and quality of urban life.
Key words: participatory urban planning, livability, quality of urban life, Yasouj city.
 
View Abstract

Conceptual framework of development plans of metropolitan areas of the world

Masoumeh Amani Bakhtiyarvand, farhad azizpour, Asghar Tahmasebi
Aims In this manuscript, we introduced the concept of peri-urban area and exemplified it on the level of local and regional policy-making in the 12 metropolitan areas. Our study aimed to identify the planning principles of plans in the peri-urban areas of metropolises.
Methodology The research methodology was interpretive, and the method used was qualitative. This applied research was conducted in 2022. The statistical population was the documents of the plans of peri-urban areas of metropolises on the level of regional and local policy-making in developed and developing countries. The data collection method was documentary.
Due to limited access to documents of plans, 39 documents were selected among the leading and successful countries in the field of spatial planning in peri-urban areas of metropolises.This selection was made using in a purposeful way involving searches on the websites of authorities and official custodians of each metropolis's projects and databases with free availability, along with utilizing Google and Google Scholar sites .The analysis method was qualitative content analysis.
Finding The principles obtained from the analysis of the plans indicated the existence of common and different conceptual orientations. Common directions included rational ecological development, creation of development infrastructures, strengthening peri-urban economic foundations and social mobilization. In developed countries, were emphasized the principles of spatial zoning, historical-cultural protection, multi-level governance and participation. Developing countries have emphasized the Pivotal discourse, adaptive governance and problem-oriented.
ConclusionThe planning principles of peri-urban areas can be separated from the perspective of planning paradigms, strategies, operational tools and planning processes. Adaptive governance and multi-level governance are as paradigms of planning and strengthening peri-urban economic foundations, rational ecological development and protection of historical-cultural heritage are as planning strategies. spatial zoning and creation of development infrastructures are operational methods and tools of planning. Participatory, Pivotal discourse and social mobilization  are planning processes.
 
View Abstract

Measuring and evaluating the status of biophilic city indicators(Case study: Mellat and Kouhsangi parks in Mashhad)

Seyed reza Razavian rad, Barat Ali Khapoor
Aims & Backgrounds: Considering the existing situation of the country in terms of green space، water scarcity، environmental pollution، loss of biodiversity and urban habitats and unstable urban ecosystem، and on the other hand، the needs of urban people in connection with nature، it is necessary to think of appropriate measures to prevent the increasing problems and the threats to the health of city dwellers. The purpose of this study is to measure and evaluate the status of biophilic city indicators in Mellat and Kouhsangi parks of Mashhad.
Methodology: The research method is analytical-geodesic and its nature is practical. The method of data collection was documental and geodesic and questionnary. The statistical population of the research were experts and specialists. In order to complete the questionnaire، a non-probability and purposeful sampling method was used، the number of which is 50 people who، in addition to their specialized field، have sufficient knowledge of the city under study. Data analysis was done with SPSS software.
Findings: The results of evaluating the state of Mashhad city (Kouhsangi and Mellat parks) in terms of biophilic city indicators indicated that the state of Mashhad city is in an unfavorable state in terms of biophilic city indicators. The highest average obtained for the index of social life in relation to Koh Sangi Park was 3.49. Also، the lowest average in the index of institutions and biophilic governance was obtained in connection with Mellat Park at the rate of 2.06
Conclusion: The results of evaluating the state of Mashhad city (Kuhsangi and Mellat parks) in terms of biophilic city indicators indicated that the state of Mashhad city is in an unfavorable state in terms of biophilic city indicators.
View Abstract

Vulnerability Assessment of the Southern Areas of Tehran City Due to Earthquake Using Layer Overlay System

Katayoon Rezaeeparto
Aims: The purpose of this research is to investigate and zonate the degree of vulnerability of the southern areas of Tehran against earthquakes.
Methodology: In the first stage; Confirmatory factor analysis method was used to develop vulnerability indices. In the second stage, in order to prioritize the indicators, the fuzzy technique was used in the form of the Delphi method, and in the third stage; Effective indices in tissue vulnerability (based on maximum effect) were drawn in the form of weighted information layers through ArcGIS software, Version 9.2. Finally, with the layering technique, the level of vulnerability was evaluated for the study areas and based on the physical indicators effective in the earthquake; the final vulnerability map was prepared in the study area.
Findings: A number of 15 criteria and 31 indicators were developed as factors affecting vulnerability. From the point of view of the experts, among the effective factors, in order of priority, the maximum acceleration of the ground, the quality of the building and the distance from the fault have the greatest role, and the topographical indicators, the number of floors and the distance from the fire station have the lowest points. Have given the results have shown that areas 15, 18, 19 and 20 have shown more vulnerability than the other investigated areas. This shows that there are more critical indicators in these areas.
Conclusion: Bad condition of physical parts and inappropriate urban uses, inefficient communication network, compact and dilapidated urban fabric, high urban density, bad condition of treatment and relief facilities, lack and inappropriate distribution of urban open spaces, etc. play a major role in increasing the amount of damage to The city has earthquakes.
 
View Abstract

Proposal of Financing the Revenue System of Municipalities and Proposing a Framework (Case Study: Tehran Municipality)

Fatemeh Vossughi , Gholamhossein Mozaffari, Mohammad Hossein Papoli Yazdi , Hossein Hataminejad

Urban sustainable financing is one of the main challenges faced by politicians and urban planners.  Municipalities are concerned with decreased revenues and controlling their costs on one hand and due to the income limitation, the inability to finance many urban projects on the other hand. Developing countries, including Iran, which have inefficient economies, poor tax systems and lack of mechanisms for citizen participation in the provision of urban costs, municipal revenue system, is drawn mainly to the unstable and unhealthy resources. This problem showed itself mainly in Iran after implementation of the 1980 municipal self-sufficiency policy and especially took place in Tehran more seriously than other cities. The two major challenges of Tehran Municipality Revenue System consist of: Unstable and unhealthy municipal revenue system and failure of Tehran’s Municipality to achieve the financial and monetary markets to cover the costs of the construction of urban infrastructure and urban projects. Therefore, it is necessary to modify the structure. For this reason, this paper has proposed two models to solve these two challenges. Model No. 1 will bring stabilization of municipality’s income and revenue system in long term in form of two patterns as "Controlling, reducing and phasing out unsustainable and unhealthy sources of income" and "managing, improving and increasing the role of sustainable revenue sources". Model No. 2 also focuses on providing new ways in order for Tehran Municipality to gain access to the financial and monetary markets. Data was collected for the period of 2008 to 2014 including codes of Tehran Municipality revenues and the amount of revenue generated by each code. We also conducted structured and semi-structured interviews with 30 specializing experts in the research topic. The results showed that during the study period, 58% of Tehran Municipality’s earned income has been achieved from unstable and unhealthy sources and 20% from relatively stable resources. Only 22% of revenue is obtained from healthy and sustainable resources. So, Tehran Municipal Income System is quite unstable and unhealthy in the present situation. The most important approaches presented in model 1 are: Replacing the Renovation Duties, Value Added Tax, Unused Land and wasteland complications with income derived from fines and other unhealthy sources, using green taxes, very high increase in the building density fine rate, reducing the number of permits granted for density, the use of new rigs charges, create clearances database for building crime offenders, getting out the user fees for municipal services, getting the infrastructure networks ramifications fee, improving relations between governments and municipalities, enabling sub-codes which have low income or zero income, using a combination of taxes, considering the municipal tourism revenues and reforming the structure of municipality’s identifying and collecting taxes. Of the most important approaches presented in model 2, may also include the creation of the Metropolitan Development Fund, taking advantage of the potential of domestic banks, using foreign borrowing, direct-entry of Tehran Municipality to the OTC, and using the potential of financing companies. 

View Abstract

The Impact Of Open Spaces Designing To Create place Attachment In Residential Complexes (Case study: sheshsad dastgah residential complexes in mashhad city)

Masihallah Masoomi, asma mirkhatib

The correlation between humans and place or "Place Attachment" is the basis of satisfying many of the human needs and also giving meaning to human life. Especially attachment to places that are significant for people, the most notable of which is the residence place. The open spaces between residential buildings are the places that link inhabitants with nature and the place of enjoyment in the instant outdoor space of the house. Therefore, there is a need to review and pay particular attention to the design of open spaces in residential complexes. This paper is trying to identify effective factors in organizing open spaces of residential complexes in order to increase sense of place attachment. This is an applied research and in terms of method, it is descriptive/analytical. Data collection has been done through library study, document study, field study and distribution of questionnaires. The statistical population of this study consists of 100 residents of Sheshsad Dastgah residential complex in Mashhad. In order to analyze the descriptive and inferential statistics of the present study, SPSS software and linear regression have been used. The results of the tests indicate the significance of all factors of the independent variable (open spaces in residential complexes) on the dependent variable (sense of attachment). In each of the indices of open space, the components that create attachment, have the highest impact on index of green spaces, and after that children’s playground, pavements, street furniture, roads and finally sitting spaces. The frameworks designed in this research are practical and can provide frameworks for awareness of the designers toward the impact of open spaces of residential complexes on place attachment of the residents.

View Abstract

on precipitation climatology of Afghanistan

Mehdi Mostarshed
Daily precipitation data from Aphrodite''s resources with a spatial resolution of 0.25*0.25 degree for 57 years have been used to detect the trend of precipitation in Afghanistan. First of all، monthly، seasonally، and yearly maps and regional mean time series calculated. According to the annual map، mean annual precipitation of the country is about 256 mm. There are two precipitation maxima in Afghanistan، one in eastern part and the other one is north- eastern of the country. Throughout the country precipitation maxima occurs in winter. The trend of time series with validity levels of %95 and %99 were examined by the use of Mann Kendall nonparametric. Trend analysis of annual time series shows no trend
View Abstract

An Investigation on Finding Appropriate Places for Building Public Parking to Decrease City Traffic (Case Study: Central Area of Isfahan)

Mohsen Saghaei, Zohreh Sadeghi, Shirin Tofigh

Though city life and machining living of human beings has some advantage and facilities, yet it has caused a lot of problems as city heavy traffic, along with unanticipated growth of population and unusual development of cities, on the one side and the increasing number of motor vehicles on the other to reduce the heavy traffic in central city areas,building public parking in appropriate place seems very effective,it helps traffic to run smoothly and using better the streets and passages and this seems the only way to solve the city traffic.In this article after surveying and studying the not passages and streets and the existing public parking in the city centre area and also studying the capacity of the existing parking,regarding the value of demands for parking by applying AHP model and by using polygon drawing by Tiesen and Buffering Method, I have defined appropriate place to build parking, consequently, this research shows that parking situated in the city centre of Isfahan do not have any balancer distribution and should be paid attention to building new public parking.

View Abstract

Analyzing the Role of Environmental Quality in Tourist Attraction to Rural Touristic Destinations (Case Study: Touristic Rural of Small lavasan Rural District)

Hamdollah Sojasi Qidari, Tahere Sadeghloo

In the comparative market of tourist, attempt for tourist from different destinations is a strategically goal. One method of attracting tourist to destination is attention to preferment of destinations quality. Because tourists are search the destinations whit height quality for rest and pleasure. Therefore in this study, the samples had been selected from 16 rural of small Lavasan rural district from Shemiranat County That has been counted as a Tehran tourism destination. This study is based on practical- explorative methodology from aspect of data gathering and identifying the effective dimensions of rural environmental quality in attraction and tourism development. From aspect of community characters description, this study is descriptive and is analytical from aspect of correlation between destination rural quality of environment with tourism development and attraction. In this study, for data gathering had been used of Library resources and field techniques and methods of observation and questionnaire based on indicators derived from the theoretical framework. For sampling had been used of Cochran formula with 0.05 coefficient error rate that estimated sample community were 384 people. Gained result of data analysis show that tourist had satisfaction from rural quality of environment in all of 4 dimension of environmental quality of tourism (with 0.05 rate of meaningful) and after the semantic quality in first place (with an average of 4.18), Experimental – aesthetic Quality (with 3.49 average) lay on second place. Also, Pierson correlation shows that there are meaningful relations among all dimensions of environmental quality of destination and tourist attractions. Result of regression too; show that most effective dimension is related to Semantic quality with 0.645 and most ineffective dimension is related to ecological quality with 0.241, on tourist attraction to rural tourist destinations. Based on the result of study, it could be said that destinations environmental quality in different aspect is effective on tourist attraction and its improving could be useful for rural in comparative market of tourist attracting and tourist choosing.

View Abstract

Zoning of Earthquakes Occurred in Fars Province during 1900 to 2010 and Comparison it by Former Researches Findings

Dr Siavosh Shayan , GholamReza Zare
Zonings of seismicity of Fars province in Iran and comparison its’ finding to other researches results is aim of this paper. We used Statistical method for analyzing recorded earthquakes in study area during 110 years (1900 – 2010)، using GIS methods for this zoning. By using USGS seismic data of the region and fault maps، Excel software and ArcGIS، we prepare a seismic risk map of study area. Findings show that during study period we have 1636 earthquakes by 2.5 t0 6.9 magnitude. In the study area about 70 percent of earthquakes were lower than 4.5 magnitudes; maximum of earthquake was for Lar and Arsanjan counties. Earthquake zoning shows that 60 percent of the Fars Province area in inside High level seismicity zone. Comparison between these researches by other researches findings shows that in our zoning، there are vaster areas inside low risk areas، but in past researches there was not low risk zones at all or there were limited areas. Based on this zoning most of population density centers ( such as Shiraz and Lar )، and western parts of the province are inside High level risk of Earth quakes ، but in past researches eastern part of province was inside high level risk zone. It seems that this zoning have higher accuracy، too.
View Abstract

Impacts of Boundaries Geometry on the Security of Western Boundaries of Iran

Sirus Ahmadi Nohadani , Arezo Alanchari Chavdorchi
International boundaries have been one of the preoccupations of Political Geography since their appearances. The shape and type of boundaries are an important issue in national security and for the offensive or defensive position of countries. Studies have been done and more attention has been paid to the boundaries geometry (convex, concave, directness) in recent decades. Also this study wants to verify the impacts of boundaries geometry on national security. This descriptive and analytical article studies the impact of western boundaries geometry of Iran on national security. Results of research show that concave boundaries play a defensive role and convex boundaries play an offensive one. thus the convex boundaries have significant security sensitivity and attract more human, economic and military resources to preserve their security in order to guarantee the national security.
View Abstract

An Analyzing of the Physical- Spatial Growth Pattern of Tehran Metropolis

Mahmood Ghadiry, Farzaneh Dasta

The growth pattern of a city is the most critical matters of the recent century. So, recognition of the spatial growth pattern of main cities of regions and countries such as Tehran metropolis is necessary for drawing up suitable policies and achieving sustainable development. In this regard, in the framework of sustainable development and urban smart growth theories, three hypotheses offered about the quality of spatial growth pattern of the Tehran metropolis and then were evaluated in the framework of the analytical-descriptive research method. In this framework, for testing the first hypothesis, the Holdren model was used. For testing the second hypothesis, Gini and Entropy's indexes were used, and for testing the third hypothesis, Moran, Geary and General G indexes were used. The necessary data was collect by librarian method. The results of testing the first hypothesis showed that despite compact and regular growth of the Tehran metropolis during 1335-1355, this city have had a sprawl growth of 75 percent during 1355-1365. But since then this procedure has changed to compact city. In the case of the second hypothesis, the results despite un-confirming this hypothesis, showed that though there are imbalance in population and employment distribution, there are not tend to its increasing. Moreover the results in confirming third hypothesis showed that the Tehran metropolis have had a random development pattern tending to Clustered pattern by forming a hot-spot in its south- south eastern part and a cold spot in its north- north western part. 

View Abstract

Assessment and Analysis of Sustainability Status in Metropolises, Case Study: All Ten Regions of Tabriz

Alireza Soleimani, Ali Majnouni Toutakhane, Ali Reza Soleimani, Ahmad Aftab

Urban development based on the principles of sustainable development has been one of the main concepts of urbanization in the last decade. The term sustainable urban development means providing the necessary grounds for the balanced and efficient utilization of urban resources so that all citizens can benefit from urban economic, social and environmental infrastructure in accordance with their needs. The aim of this research is to investigate the sustainability status in Tabriz metropolis. This is a descriptive-analytic research. The statistical population of this research is the inhabitants of all ten regions of Tabriz, and 500 individuals over 15 years old are selected as sample size using simple random sampling by the classified method. The validity of the questionnaire was verified by experts and the reliability of the different parts of the questionnaire obtained the score of 0.876 to 0.881 using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Fuzzy TOPSIS Method is used to evaluate the variables in order to assess the sustainability, the model of barometer sustainability is used. Also to infer and testability of data the statistical tests such as Anova test, T test and Tukey and Scheffe tests are used. Drawing of maps related to the stability of Tabriz urban areas has been done using GIS software. According to the results, region 8 is the most sustainable region and region 3 is the most unstable region. Also, all 10 regions of Tabriz with sustainability value of 0.591 are in medium sustainability status. The status of the regions in terms of human welfare and ecosystem well-being was also equal to 0.548 and 0.515 respectively. The results of T and Anova tests also showed that according to the sustainability barometric results, physical, social, economic and environmental dimensions are of the most importance respectively. Tukey and Scheffe tests also demonstrated the stability gap between different dimensions of sustainability. Finally, according to the findings of the research and taking into account the situation of the tens of ten regions of Tabriz, practical suggestions are presented in accordance with different dimensions of sustainable urban development.

View Abstract

Study of Spatial Justice in the Distribution of Services, with an Emphasis on Urban Management (Case study: the neighborhoods of nineteen district of Tehran)

Hossein Yaghfoori, sajad ghasemi, narges ghasemi

The beginnings of social justice rooted in spatial and environmental justice. Since the civil service is considered as a public good, the estimation and the correct positioning is in the area of urban management, so it cannot deprived some parts of the society. Spatial justice as the fair distribution of urban services and facilities is one of the justice society approaches to achieve a harmonious society and social justice. Lack of proper distribution services make injustice and dissatisfaction among citizens of their location and city managers. The research method is descriptive-analytic. In order to analyze the distribution of municipal services in 19 District of Tehran, Vikor model was used. The results show that the services are not distributed in 19 district of Tehran, so that in terms of spatial equity of presented indicators, North Shariati neighborhood with a score of 0.042 has the highest level of the facilities and services and Shahid Kazemi neighborhood with a score of 1, has the lowest enjoyment of facilities and services of 19 district

View Abstract

Strategic Planning of Medical Tourism with an Emphasis on Religious Tourism in Mashhad City

Ali Hajinejad, Aliakbar Anabestani, Mohammad Safarian

Medical tourism is a branch of health tourism that has grown considerably in many parts of the world now days. Mashhad city with regard to  the Holy Shrine, More than 300 thousand foreign tourists per year, more than 31 public and private hospitals and specialties of cardiology, ophthalmology, pediatrics and. ..,which is one of the centers of attracting tourists and religious - health tourism in Iran. cost of medical services in these hospitals are 75% less than those of European and American hospitals in terms of the quality of similar services they offer and this could be a big advantage for developing such activities in the region. The research methodology has been a descriptive-analytical one which employs a SWOT analysis model in exploring the strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats which are considered as internal and external factors critical for treatment tourism in this city. This paper Prepared by using the library documents and the field study and interviews with experts, has been considered as descriptive - analytical. The results show that infrastructure and expertise in Mashhad by the Holy Shrine are the main strengths of this research. And the other hand non-governmental organizations, investment and support and develop the bilateral relations between the Middle East countries are the main opportunities in this research. In conclusion the strengths and opportunities for developing such activities outweigh the weaknesses and threats.

View Abstract

Presentation of a Strategic Model for Achieving Urban Sustainable Development in Mashhad Metropolis

Sona Bikdeli , Sirous Shafaghi , Fatemeh Vossughi
The subject of many urban studies is sustainable development and ideal approach of urban planners and designers in designing sustainable cities is mainly toward a better life and reduction of environmental crises. This article seeks to answer these questions What are the most important issues and problems of instability in the metropolis of Mashhad? What are the most important strategies for achieving a sustainable urban development model in Mashhad metropolis? The purpose of this study is to provide a strategic model for achieving sustainable urban development in Mashhad metropolis. To this end, the concepts and principles of sustainable urban development have been studied. Then, a variety of theories related to the development of urban sustainability including the city boom, compact city and smart city were studied, analyzed and summarized using conceptual analysis method. Finally, the initial conceptual model of the research was presented after reviewing the national documents and identifying the principles of planning. The model points out that in order to achieve sustainable urban development in Mashhad metropolis, the emphasis on a system management dimension with four dimensions of sustainability including physical, social, economic and environmental dimensions is necessary. In a quantitative evaluation of the conceptual model of the research using confirmatory factor analysis, the high path coefficient of environmental sustainability suggests that the most important urban instability problem in Mashhad metropolis is environmental instability. On the other hand, based on the views of the urban management team, presenting a comprehensive and participatory strategy model is the best way to achieve sustainable urban development in the metropolis of Mashhad.
  
View Abstract

A Study of Effect of Geographical Factors on Societal Security (Case Study: Kerman Province)

Hadi Veicy

Geographical spaces and political units affected from its location and natural environment and with the surrounding environment have interaction. It seems that security, especially societal security as the most fundamental concept of as social life affected by the location and generally geographical factors. This study sought to examine the impact of geographical factors on societal security in Kerman province. Therefore, this study performed by systematic approach and integrated regional approach to issues of security and descriptive method. Data needed for research collected by library method and from United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Statistics Center of Iran and Kerman Province’s Applied Research Office of police commander. In regional scale referred to drug trafficking and terrorism and in local scale (province) indicated to indicators of social insecurity such as armed robbery, robbery rape, kidnapping and murder, and the amount of drugs seized. The results show that societal security of Kerman province affected by the location of the resources of transnational, sub-national and inter-provincial threats. Also, it influenced by topographical conditions and the remoteness and proximity to centers of crisis. Townships in the western half of the province than half East of the state of societal security have better.

View Abstract

Geography and Place Identity in the Age of Globalization

Dr Abolfazl Ghanbari
The purpose of this paper is to describe the concept of neoliberalism، globalization. Also، the effects of these concepts on space and geographical identity and also by focusing on globalization effects on geography science have been addressed. Finally by criticizing the present way that expands neoliberalism ideology is sought to be able to maintain human being dignity in of economic، social and cultural developments of countries and prevails social، spatial and geographical justice as a dominant ideology in the world. The research methodology is descriptive-analytic. By studying the field of neoliberalism and globalization area، we can come to this conclusion that neoliberalism and globalization has deep and significant effects on geography that can be pointed out such as: increasing spatial analysis in geography، especially analyzing spatial inequality، regionalism in combination to reinforcing ethnical identity seeking، destroying penetration and power of social institutes، decreasing west political tradition in studying geography، return of religious radicalism and etc. The influence of geography on the evolution and transformation of the digital information age، the studies in this field has been done by geographers، shows that geography is not only adapted to the evolution، that even to see clearly and simply realistic view of some scholars، the phenomenon of globalization، the new stand and attitudes towards scientific field، also provides insight as to other sciences and an invitation to look again at the issues that face. Geographers with researches their thoughts and reflections on issues of the age، geography could turn back the edge of the scene and it made a respectable and reasonable range. So geography maximizes increasingly its own importance due to augmentation of researches in the field of spatial analysis.
View Abstract

Analysis of Passive Defense Considerations in Urban Infrastructure With an Emphasis on Water Infrastructure

Fatemeh Bakhshi Shadmehri, Seyyed Hadi Zarghani , Omid Ali Kharzmi

These days, cities are the most important places for human life, hence we have faced the concentration of population, capital, and infrastructure in cities. This concentration not only has a lot of economic, social, political and environmental ramifications, but also has made cities into strategic military and terrorist attack targets. Past experiences and the present experience of wars in countries like Iraq, Kosovo and Yemen, shows that urban centers and the critical infrastructure of the cities, such as water, electricity and energy infrastructure are the main and primary targets in case of an invasion.Passive defense is a series of principles and precautions relating to defense and security which can assure stability and survival of a system. Accordingly, this paper deploys an analytical method to review the vulnerability level of various parts of water infrastructure in case of a potential military or terrorist attack. The results of the study show that, despite the vital role of water in human life in the cities,  different aspects of water infrastructure, including transport, storage, refining, administration and distribution are very vulnerable in case of a potential military or terrorist attack. Especially considering the fact that the protection and security of this infrastructure are very weak.Undoubtedly considering defense and security precautions in location, design, construction and management of these centers is a very important factor in minimizing the risks of a potential military or terrorist attack

View Abstract

The Role of Vibrant Markets in Organizing Tehran

Hossein Mokhtari Hashi, Golnaz Naseroleslami, Amin Moradi

The market status in this context consists of the measures that affect the performance of financial units. Measures that are beyond the control of the managers of these units. The financial market is one of the defining factors of the financial status of each country, based on which the economical situation of each country could be assessed. Transparency and competitiveness are the factors that lead to a healthy market, foreign and domestic investment in industry, success of productive financial activities and elimination of counterproductive activities. A major reason for the recession that has overshadowed the financial market in recent years, is the lack of interest to invest in industrial sections due to discouraging statistics in this context. This not only directs capital into non-productive sections, but also seriously affects employment in all regions of the country. Which leads to a lot of unemployed people who engage in non-productive activities. The high rate of immigration to Tehran is due to the fact that large amounts of capital are invested in Tehran instead of being invested in productive sections throughout the country. This situation has directly and indirectly affected Tehran and it makes the efforts for organizing Tehran futile. The present study is seeking to analyze the effect of improving financial markets on the vibrancy of industrial units throughout the country with a descriptive and analytical approach. It also seeks to analyze and elaborate the relationship between satisfactory financial markets and decreased immigration rate to Tehran and balanced financial prosperity in various regions of the country as well as relieving the pressure on Tehran and making it easier to organize

View Abstract

Determining Vulnerable Applications and Criteria for Spatial Locating With Emphasis on Unnatural Crises with AHP Method (Case Study: Sabzevar)

Mohamdreza Akhvan Abdollahian, Masuod Taghvaei, Hamidreza Varesi

With the rapid increase in world population it is observed that most of this population is concentrated in cities. Nowadays about half of the world's population live in cities and it is estimated that from 2.2 billion people that will be added to earth’s population in the next 30 years, 2.1 billion will be living in cities. And 2 billion of these people are expected to be born in developing countries (UNDP Annual Report, 2003), which is one of the most significant security issues. So understanding passive defense and the factors that shape it have a strong impact on the security of the country and minimizing the potential damages to the country. Since our country Iran has unique political circumstances and geographical location, in the last three decades it has always been threatened from different aspects which shows the importance of passive defense in urban planning of different cities. Among the outstanding issues that are important in passive defense and crisis management is the location of strategic or vulnerable facilities. The aim of this research is to achieve recognition of applications that could be affected in times of crisis and to identify criteria of user location affected in times of crisis from the perspective of spatial-physical indicators (effective in positioning applications) for preparation and development of projects based on rules and regulations, and this has been done for the city of Sabzevar. Therefore, the literature and concepts related to passive defense, crisis management and mapping applications are analyzed, and then the appropriate definition of vulnerable facilities has been presented, as well as guidelines for locating these types of applications for protection in the time of crisis. The next step is to review the documents and maps of Sabzevar to prioritize the indicators identified by order of importance. At the end with the help of AHP-GIS method optimized sites have been identified for these centers. The results suggest that, given the circumstances and characteristics of Sabzevar compatibility standards, comfort, performance, utility, health and safety standards in locating vulnerable facilities are the most important.

View Abstract

Explanation of urban branding components with an emphasis on its economic aspects, case study: Mashhad metropolis

Ensieh Lezgi, Qadir Siami
One of the strategies of urban management in order to advance in the competitive world is planning to achieve sustainable urban branding for the city, which in addition to introducing the image of the city, is able to attract audiences. Tourism is the most important factor in achieving the economic benefits of urban branding. The metropolis of Mashhad is one of the goals of urban tourism with pilgrimage and religious tourism throughout the country, and it is called as the spiritual capital of the country. This city is the first destination of domestic tourism trips. The purpose of this study is to investigate urban branding components in Mashhad metropolitan with emphasis on tourism in order to achieve its economic goals. To the purpose, firstly, the components and indexes of urban branding with an emphasis on the economic dimension were identified and by using the views of  200citizens, pilgrims and experts were evaluated. Then, by applying statistical analyzes (analysis test and Friedman nonparametric test), has been studied and prioritized in Mashhad metropolis. The results show that among the six components of this research, the unique features of city have the highest score and international standing of the city has the lowest score. this type of research is called analytical- descriptive.
View Abstract

Investigation Citizen Attitudes on Foreign Immigrants Resident in Mashhad

Fatemeh Vossughi, mohammad reza Mohseni

Islamic Republic of Iran is one of the most important countries, accepting immigrants and refugees from around the world. The immigrants are mostly from the neighboring countries.These immigrants had to leave their countries due tosecurity issues and difficult economic and social conditions. Most of these immigrants are Afghans.The greatest wave of immigration from Afghanistan to Iran startedwith Soviet attacksince 1978.
Mashhad the center of Khorasan-Razavi province sharing the eastern borders with this country,is one of the most important centers accept these immigrants. The population of Mashhad is about 3 million. And about4 decades after the first waves of Afghans' refugees, several million immigrants are periodically or permanently reside there. According to statistics provided by the authorities in 2012 about 150 thousand Afghan immigrants legally live in Mashhad, and have been estimated to be as many as illegal immigrants are living in this city.During these years, the facilities forimmigrants in the various fields are provided, including education, insurance, training, professional skills, etc.
The immigrants entering Iran has created many changes inthe economic, social, educational and cultural both for the immigrants and the host society.
 Alongside with the given facilities and changes taken place during decades in Iran, there have been different positive or negative views on the acceptance and residence of these immigrants. What is important is, despite the large amount of these immigrants mostly from Afghanistan and their long -term residence in Iran, how welcomed are they in the host society? How the immigrants and the host society’s people interaction is? What is the people's views over acceptance or reject these immigrants?
This research aims to find Mashhad’s citizens attitude as an important center accepting foreign migrants and connection of these attitudes with factors such as gender, education, income, job variety, location in the city and ethnicity.
Research Methodology
The methodology of this research is based on survey. The needed data have been gathered using the questionnaire. The assessment of these variables has been done using Likert and Bougardos scale. According to the aim research,the dependent variable analyzed by independent variables, is the respondentsattitudes over foreign immigrants. These attitudes have been analyzed due to economic, sanitation, traffic, education, housing and social harms.
Result
Results show that the most negative attitudes are about social harms variable. According to respondents view, the migrants impact on education variableis not positive either. The housing indicator has less negative views compared to education and shows 57.6% of respondents as negative attitude. But the respondents view on economic factors is more positive. In total, 32% of the respondents view on foreign migrants is negative.60% isneither positive nor negative and 8% of the view is positive.This research also analyses the connection between citizen’s view and independent indicators. These indicators are built upon economic, social and personal features of respondents such as gender, marital status, education, residence (on foreign migrants’ existence levels), age, nationality, income, religion and relations form with foreign migrants.
Results show that indicators such as gender, age, job and residence of respondents on number of foreign migrants and access level is meaningfully related to respondents views over foreign migrants.
Men have more negative attitudes over the issue than women and it shows the gender and views on foreign migrants are related.Relation between respondents’ age and their views shows that the older the respondents are, the more negative their views are. Relation between respondent’s job and their views shows that the industrial jobs, business and governmental jobs have mostly negative views.The respondents city zone (on welfarelevels), influences their views. Meaning that the more their residence has lower levels on sustainability, the more negative their views on foreign migrants are.The respondents city zone (on the number of foreign migrants) influences their views too. Meaning the people living in areas with a large number of foreign migrants has a more negative view than the people with fewer migrants in their neighborhood. The type and level of relationship with foreign migrants also influences their views. The more connected are the citizens to foreign migrants, the less negative views they have.Items such as marital status, education, income, religion, and ethnicity have no concern with Mashhad citizen attitudes

View Abstract

The Impact of Geopolitical Interests of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Regional Challenges in Southwest Asia

Mohammad Reza Hafeznia , Ebrahim Roumina
Competition among countries in a region is a widespread phenomenon. However, the actions of the rival countries depend on the nature and number of matters of dispute and their approaches to resolving these disputes. Two countries that are struggling for hegemony in a region could not possibly have a peaceful relationship. The relationship between these two countries will be in a state of perpetual competition, marked by seeking allies and rebel groups from other countries in the region in order to confront one another. Today, Iran and Saudi Arabia's mutual competition in southwest Asia has shaped tensions. This rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia has spread to other countries in the region as well. This research is a descriptive and analytical study in order to analyze the geopolitical interests of Iran and Saudi Arabia in Southwest Asia. The data is collected through library research and documents. The results of this study show that the actions of the two countries of Iran and Saudi Arabia in southwest Asia are influenced by various factors such as historical and cultural reasons, ideological competition, conflicting political structure, religious rivalry, ethnic and religious groups with mutual interests in the rival country and political interventions of world powers. These factors play an important role in creation and continuation of competition and conflict between the two countries. And due to serious dependence of major parts of the world on natural resources of the two countries, the escalation of the crisis between Iran and Saudi Arabia will create a global challenge
View Abstract
Indexing and Abstracting

Citation Indices from GS

AllSince 2019
Citations998735
h-index98
i10-index94
Boost the prominence of your articles: