Ethnic Factors and Sustainable Development in Iranian Kurdistan

This paper aims to investigate interactions between the Kurds and development agents in the field of sustainable development. The theoretical approach of the research is based on modernization theories. Research methodology is qualitative, with an emphasis on grounded theory. Data was collected through depth interviews, participant observation, document and secondary analysis. In the field of political development, document findings indicate that despite significant increase in participation of Kurdish people in elections, local managers and administrators still have the minimum role in political management of Kurdistan province. With regard to cultural development, results show that promises made to Kurdish people about quantitative and qualitative development of cultural elements, such as education in mother tongue and true representation of ethnic identity in local media, have not become materialized in practice. Among consequences of this situation are ‘dissatisfaction with the national media’ and ‘formation of resistance identity’ in Kurdistan.