A Theoretical Framework for Local Development Process from the Viewpoints of Community-Based Development Activists in Iran

Abstract

Purpose: Authors intended to identify the main bases of local development and present a framework for better understanding of its theoretical process from the perspective of the activists in the community-based development process in Iran. Methodology: This qualitative research used the Grounded Theory method. Data were collected from deep interviews with community-based development activists in five successful case studies in Iran and then were analyzed. Findings: The results, validated by respondent validation and triangulation methods, demonstrate that local development with a community-based approach is appreciated by Iranian activists more of a human and social phenomenon than an economic, political, and environmental issue. Results also show that human capital is identified by concepts like accountability, proactiveness, and psychological empowerment rather than the common indicators emphasized by international organizations. Moreover, social capital and participation are evaluated by such concepts as positive relations, collective actions, positive norms, bridging social capital, and by institutionalization and mobilization of national resources. The final theoretical framework of the article shows that both human capital and social capital not only enhance local participation which can improve economic, political, and environmental indicators, but also are themselves promoted through the reinforcing loops and consequently can enable the ongoing running of the development engine. Originality: Despite the considerable literature existing on community-based development, the authors could not reach any published article involving relations among fundamental concepts of community-based development in Iran, nor did they come across a general understanding of its process by the relevant activists. The suggested framework in this paper well supports the understanding of the process.

Keywords

• local development
• community-based development
• community-based organization
• iran
• grounded theory.