فصلنامه روستا و توسعه
سال بیست و هفتم شماره 2 (پیاپی 106، تابستان 1403)

In recent years, rural areas in Iran have been neglected in terms of development, with a focus on agriculture as the only means of progress. This has led to a lack of understanding among visitors about what rural areas offer as tourist destinations. The absence of a strong tourism brand for these destinations hinders potential tourists from forming a connection and incentive to visit. Due to the lack of investment and development in rural tourism services and facilities in Isfahan province, this study aims to prioritize key factors in branding rural destinations in the region. The main research question focuses on identifying the most effective variables in the slow tourism brand model for rural destinations in Isfahan province.

This study is practical in purpose and uses a descriptive-analytical method. The statistical population consists of tourists from 19 selected villages in Isfahan province. A sample size of 384 households was selected using a systematic random method. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations.

Analysis of responses from tourists indicates that the slow tourism product in Isfahan province falls below satisfactory levels in various dimensions, including historical-cultural components, natural resources, leisure, hospitality, environment, accessibility, acceptance, services, and value for money. The decision-making level component shows a satisfactory level, while other components of the slow tourism process do not meet desired standards.

To enhance the tourism brand of rural destinations in Isfahan province, destination management organizations and planners must understand the tourism potential of these areas and prioritize key factors in branding. Strategic planning, introducing new forms of tourism, organizing festivals, and utilizing innovative advertising methods are essential for the development of slow tourism in rural areas. Success in establishing a slow tourism brand depends on effective interaction between key factors and careful consideration of future prospects.

Meeting the expectations of farmers (insurers) who are key stakeholders in the insurance sector is crucial for the sustainability and growth of villages and the insurance industry. This study explores the factors influencing the satisfaction of date insurance policyholders, considering both economic and non-economic motivations. Regional differences may also play a role in determining satisfaction levels.

To analyze the variables affecting the decision to purchase insurance and the willingness to be insured, Heckman's two-stage model was employed. Dates are a significant agricultural product in the Middle East region, particularly in Iran's southern and central provinces. Date insurance plays a vital role in supporting the production and export of this product. This study focuses on assessing the satisfaction levels of date insurance policyholders in six major date-producing provinces of Iran: Sistan and Baluchestan, Khuzestan, Kerman, Fars, Bushehr, and Hormozgan. Data was collected through a researcher-designed questionnaire administered to 105 insurance brokers using random sampling. The analysis utilized Heckman's two-stage Tobit model with Shazam software.

The results of the first stage, employing the probit model, indicate the explanatory power and accuracy of the model in predicting willingness to insure date products. The area under cultivation emerged as a significant factor influencing the willingness to be insured. In the second stage, the Heckman model revealed that variables such as cultivated area, agricultural insurance and marketing contracts significantly impacted the satisfaction level of date insurance policyholders. Cultivated area had the most positive effect on willingness to insure date crops, highlighting its importance in insurance decisions. Conversely, variables like education, social networks, and land ownership had a negative impact on satisfaction levels.

The findings suggest that policymakers should focus on enhancing the satisfaction of date farmers by integrating date lands to boost production and export opportunities. This approach can increase farmers' income and contribute to the sustainability and growth of villages and the insurance industry.

Food security is a multi-dimensional phenomenon that occurs when all people have physical, economic, and social access to sufficient and safe food for an active and healthy life at any time. On the other hand, food insecurity imposes a significant burden on society through healthcare and social costs. The achievement of food security is one of the most important national and international development concerns. Hence, one of the most important ways to improve food security is to pay special attention to the agricultural sector. However, this sector is the most vulnerable to the consequences of climate change, which ranks first among the ten most dangerous human phenomena. Therefore, it is essential to adopt appropriate strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on food insecurity.

In this paper, the impact of adopting climate change adaptation strategies on food security was studied using the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach. Factors influencing the adoption of climate change adaptation strategies were studied using a multi-variable probit model in Bakhtegan-Tashk basin. A total of 300 farmers were selected using a multi-stage sampling method in the Bakhtegan-Tashk basin.

The results of the Propensity Score Matching (PSM) approach showed that if farmers adopt climate change adaptation strategies such as diversification of livelihood activities, modern irrigation systems, construction of irrigation ponds, and use of low-water-need varieties, the household calorie intake of the sample households would increase by approximately 219.85, 182, 137.82, and 83.23 calories, respectively. Furthermore, the results of the multi-variable Probit model showed that the age of the farmer, education level, household size, household income, access to credit, irrigation water supply, ownership of agricultural machinery, access to agricultural extension services, number of crops planted, and soil quality are considered significant determinants of adaptive strategies.

According to the results, the most important solution to mitigate the negative consequences of climate change on food insecurity is to adopt the diversification of livelihood activities. It is therefore recommended that the research results, especially the effects of adopting adaptive strategies to climate change on food security, be taken into account in the formulation of national food security programs.

Recognizing and explaining the levels of development in rural areas, and understanding the extent of their deprivation and progress through quantitative and statistical methods, is crucial for rural development planning. Examining various social and economic indicators to determine the condition of villages can be effective in formulating development strategies. Shahrbabak County in Kerman province is known for its abundance of mines yet lacks adequate facilities and services, and even the few facilities are not evenly distributed, especially in its central villages. This uneven distribution has led to high rates of emigration in some villages and high rates of immigration in others. The purpose of this research is to evaluate and rank the development level of the rural areas of Shahrbabak County in Kerman province to identify problems and limitations and implement necessary solutions. The main question this study seeks to answer is: What is the level of development in the rural areas of Shahrbabak in terms of physical, ecological-environmental, cultural-social, spatial, economic, and administrative aspects?

This research is applied in purpose and utilizes a descriptive-analytical method. Data collection methods include library research and fieldwork. The statistical population consists of six districts in the central part of Shahrbabak with a total population of 10,3975 people, and a sample size of 382 people was determined using the Cochran formula. Simple random sampling was employed, and data were collected through questionnaires. Data analysis involved prioritizing six main criteria (physical, ecological-environmental, cultural-social, spatial, economic, and administrative) and 47 sub-criteria, using the Analytical Network Process (ANP) technique to assess the interdependence of development elements, and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method to rank villages based on development.

The research findings indicate that villages like Istabarq, Maymand, and Baghaleh fall into the deprived and unstable category, while Khorsand and Khatun Abad are classified as rich and stable. Madowarat village is positioned between privileged and stable. The overall conditions in the rural areas of the central part of Shahrbabak are unfavorable due to the lack of proper distribution of facilities and services, leading to developmental challenges. The disparities among rural districts stem from a lack of a comprehensive rural development approach, resulting in unbalanced development. To achieve comprehensive and balanced development, there is a need for accurate knowledge and optimal planning at both national and regional levels to bridge the gaps between privileged and underprivileged areas.

Based on the findings highlighting development inequality in the studied villages, it is recommended to tailor development plans in the central sector to the specific needs and resources of the area. Conducting detailed studies in social, economic, physical, administrative, spatial, and ecological areas can help identify potential opportunities in agriculture, animal husbandry, and their integration with other sectors to enhance rural development in the central sector.

Sociology views business as a fundamental aspect of any society's economic and social capacity. In light of rapid societal changes, entrepreneurship has gained significant importance. The global economy is shifting towards supporting small and medium businesses, which play a crucial role in job creation and entrepreneurship. Small and medium enterprises are key drivers of economic growth and development in both developed and developing countries. Omid Entrepreneurship Fund is a vital institution that provides initial capital and support for small businesses.

This research aims to design a model of sociological factors influencing Omid entrepreneurship funds on small business development using thematic analysis. Thematic analysis is a method to identify patterns in qualitative data. The study participants included managers of Omid Entrepreneurship Funds and small rural businesses. Data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews with a sample size of 18 individuals in Gilan province.

Interviews with 18 economic field managers revealed six main components: social satisfaction, social security, social justice, social participation, social capital, and social solidarity. These factors play a significant role in the development of small businesses through Omid Entrepreneurship Funds.

The sociological factors identified in this study contribute to the development of small businesses by improving their economic performance. Small businesses, especially in rural areas, are essential for sustainable economic and social development. Gilan province, in particular, requires the growth of small businesses for economic progress.

In recent years, rural areas in Iran have been neglected in terms of development, with a focus on agriculture as the only means of progress. This has led to a lack of understanding among visitors about what rural areas offer as tourist destinations. The absence of a strong tourism brand for these destinations hinders potential tourists from forming a connection and incentive to visit. Due to the lack of investment and development in rural tourism services and facilities in Isfahan province, this study aims to prioritize key factors in branding rural destinations in the region. The main research question focuses on identifying the most effective variables in the slow tourism brand model for rural destinations in Isfahan province.

This study is practical in purpose and uses a descriptive-analytical method. The statistical population consists of tourists from 19 selected villages in Isfahan province. A sample size of 384 households was selected using a systematic random method. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations.

Analysis of responses from tourists indicates that the slow tourism product in Isfahan province falls below satisfactory levels in various dimensions, including historical-cultural components, natural resources, leisure, hospitality, environment, accessibility, acceptance, services, and value for money. The decision-making level component shows a satisfactory level, while other components of the slow tourism process do not meet desired standards.

To enhance the tourism brand of rural destinations in Isfahan province, destination management organizations and planners must understand the tourism potential of these areas and prioritize key factors in branding. Strategic planning, introducing new forms of tourism, organizing festivals, and utilizing innovative advertising methods are essential for the development of slow tourism in rural areas. Success in establishing a slow tourism brand depends on effective interaction between key factors and careful consideration of future prospects.

The tourism industry is an attractive sector for job creation, known as a powerful tool to combat poverty. Entrepreneurship in the sustainable rural tourism sector helps the government strengthen small and medium industries. Consequently, the unemployment and poverty rates among the local community decrease. Strategic management in entrepreneurship can lead to market share growth, cost reduction, customer retention, and other financial and non-financial benefits of organizational performance. Therefore, strategic orientation is considered one of the most important intangible resources and assets of rural tourism entrepreneurial companies. In a knowledge-based economy, attention to intellectual capital is necessary to remain competitive. The formation and development of entrepreneurial activities in sustainable rural tourism, focusing on strategic orientation, green intellectual capital, and environmental management programs, provide favorable conditions for all stakeholders in sustainable rural tourism. This research aims to evaluate the entrepreneurship environment of rural tourism in the villages of Shahroud Township concerning strategic orientation and intellectual capital.

This qualitative research utilized the systematic Grounded Theory method. It is exploratory and considered basic applied research. Given the qualitative approach, this research is interpretive. The study population includes activists and experts in rural tourism entrepreneurship. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 experts and activists to explore their perceptions regarding the impact of strategic orientation and intellectual capital on sustainable rural green tourism entrepreneurship development

During the initial coding stage, key points from the interviews were titled. The interviews focused on factors influencing the strategic orientation of rural tourism entrepreneurial units with respect to intellectual capital and environmental preservation. The main categories identified werelearning-orientation, market-orientation, domination-orientation, futurism, branding-orientation, entrepreneurship-orientation, cost-orientation, innovation-orientation, and formal-orientation. The axial coding process related sub-categories to each other, highlighting the importance of foresight in creating market-orientation and sustainable competitive advantage.

The sustainability of rural tourism entrepreneurial units emphasizing green practices relies on their ability to create superior value in the market. Strategic orientation and intellectual capital are crucial intangible assets for entrepreneurial units. Market orientation and green intellectual capital contribute to superior performance, especially in environmental protection. These strategic orientations lead to sustainable competitive advantages in the long term.

Good governance is essential for sustainable rural development, promoting management based on maximum community participation and social values to enhance livability in various aspects of rural life. As governance theory evolves, competent governance has emerged as a key focus due to its effectiveness in fostering collaboration between government and citizens in public affairs management. Effective governance is achieved when all local stakeholders are involved in policy-making, planning, organization, implementation, and monitoring processes. Rural areas in the country face challenges such as population decline, particularly in dry and border regions, impacting the economic and social fabric of rural communities. This study aims to assess the impact of competent governance on rural livability in border regions of South Khorasan province, providing insights into the role of governance in enhancing the livability of rural villages and ensuring their sustainability.

This research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach and is classified as applied research. Data collection methods include literature review and surveys. A researcher-designed questionnaire, validated and tested for reliability, was used to collect data on good governance (comprising eight indicators with 31 questions) and livability (comprising ten indicators with 51 questions). Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multivariate regression were employed to analyze the data gathered through surveys. The study population consisted of 93 villages with approximately 10,000 households, with a sample of 23 villages (6,525 people and 1,801 households) selected based on population size, location, and distribution criteria. The sample size was determined using Cochran's formula, resulting in 317 households.

Analysis of the research sample's responses revealed that the participation index had the highest average score (3.11) among the good governance indicators, while the justice-centered index had the lowest average (2.59). In terms of rural livability, the sense of belonging to a place scored the highest (3.08), while the landscape index had the lowest average (2.3). The overall averages for good governance and livability were below optimal levels, as confirmed by one-sample t-tests. The research findings indicated a positive impact of all governance indicators on livability, with the accountability index having the most significant effect (coefficient of 0.719), explaining the majority of variance in livability. The participation index had the least impact (0.536) on rural livability in the study area.

The study revealed that governance and livability in the study area were perceived as suboptimal by the local community, possibly influenced by challenging environmental conditions near Afghanistan. However, there was a positive and significant correlation between governance indicators and rural livability, with the responsibility index showing the strongest correlation and the participation index the weakest. The regression model demonstrated that all governance indicators positively influenced livability, with the accountability index having the most substantial impact and the participation index the least impact on rural livability in the study area.

The expansion of villages in the last few decades has caused significant changes in the quality and quantity of rural waste. Rural waste not only leads to diseases but also results in unpleasant odors, unsightly rural landscapes, and pollution of water, soil, and air in the village environment, adversely affecting rural residents. According to the Demographic Data Organization statistics, Iran ranked 17th globally in waste production in 2021. The per capita waste production in Iran is approximately double the global average. Despite the Public Service Department of Rural Affairs of Iran reporting that 10,000 tons of regular wastes are generated daily in the country's villages, half of which cannot be recycled, emphasizing the importance of optimal rural waste management and identifying effective components in this area.

This study evaluated the impact of social capital components on rural waste management in villages of the Padena district (Semirom County). Data were collected using a questionnaire in 2024. The questionnaire's validity was confirmed by a panel of experts, and its reliability was assessed using Cronbach's alpha test. Pearson's correlation coefficient was employed to analyze the relationship between social capital components and rural waste management behavior in the study area. The artificial neural network was utilized to identify the most crucial social capital component in rural waste management. Lastly, a stepwise multivariate regression method was used to assess the statistical significance of social capital components in influencing waste management behavior and identify key predictor components.

The Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between various dimensions of social capital and waste management at a significant confidence level, indicating a strong relationship between social capital and effective rural waste management in the region. The study found that the social ethics component, with an importance coefficient of 0.22 and a relative importance of 100%, was relatively more critical in rural waste management behavior than other social capital components. Social trust was identified as the second most important component in waste management behavior. Among the social capital components, only ethics and social participation had a positive and significant impact on rural waste management in the study area. These two components should be considered as predictive variables in waste management behavior, with each unit increase in social ethics leading to a 1.41 unit improvement in waste management behavior, and each unit increase in social participation contributing 0.75 units to improved waste management behavior.

The study highlights the importance of adhering to social ethics and positive characteristics such as respecting others' rights, social responsibility, empathy, solidarity, and participation in social activities in rural waste management. The results emphasize the need for planning and policy-making to enhance ethics and social participation in optimal rural waste management through educational workshops and financial incentives in rural areas.

Women, particularly rural women, often face discrimination and are considered one of the most marginalized groups. Despite their active roles in various aspects such as family, agriculture, and services, they have limited access to resources and opportunities. This study focuses on the rural areas of Kaghazkonan district in Mianeh city, where a significant number of women are engaged in various activities. With the increasing presence of information and communication technology (ICT) in the region, there is a growing interest among women to utilize these tools for empowerment. This research aims to explore the impact of ICT on the empowerment of rural women in terms of psychological, political, and social dimensions.

This study adopts an applied and descriptive-analytical approach and targets rural households in 69 villages of Kaghazkonan district. A sample of 2134 women over 18 years old from 9 selected villages was surveyed using a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics, including structural equations and sample t-tests. The study considers ICT capabilities as the independent variable and women's empowerment in economic, social, political, and psychological dimensions as the dependent variable.

The findings reveal that the average age of respondents is 39.41 years, with a household size of 3.5 people. The majority of respondents are housewives, and the highest educational level is middle school and sub-diploma. The analysis of women's empowerment dimensions indicates varying levels across different aspects, with public affairs scoring the highest and decision-making the lowest. Similarly, ICT dimensions show variations, with access to ICT scoring highest and familiarity with ICT scoring lowest. Factor analysis suggests that ICT has a significant impact on psychological, political, social, and economic empowerment of rural women.

The study highlights the interest of village women in utilizing ICT for personal and professional development, despite limited access and familiarity with these technologies. The findings underscore the need for improved educational opportunities and awareness programs to enhance women's engagement with ICT tools.