Identifying Dimensions and Components for Enhancing the Executive Capacity of Rural Empowerment Policy Implementation
Keywords:
Empowerment of villagers, improving executive capacity, rural development, empowerment policiesAbstract
This study aimed to identify the key dimensions and components required to enhance the executive capacity for implementing rural empowerment policies in western Iran. A qualitative, interpretive design using thematic analysis was applied. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 12 rural development experts, executive managers, and academic specialists. Thematic coding followed Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework, and rigor was ensured through code review, data–text comparison, and direct participant quotations. The analysis revealed four main dimensions of enhancing executive capacity: (1) requirements for capacity building, including structural, motivational, economic-cultural, and mental-psychological capabilities; (2) contextual conditions, including financing, incentive, skill-based, and cultural factors; (3) facilitating factors, including business development levers and supportive incentives; and (4) strengthening rural capabilities through social, economic, and individual empowerment. Each dimension fosters independence, participation, and acceptance of empowerment policies among rural communities. Strengthening the executive capacity for rural empowerment policies requires integrated attention to structural, motivational, socio-economic, and individual aspects. The proposed framework offers a practical guide for policymakers and rural development managers to optimize resources, design supportive strategies, and achieve sustainable rural development outcomes.
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