Ethnic Factors and Sustainable Development in Iranian Kurdistan
Subject Areas : Iranian Sociological Review
Adel Abdollahi
1
(PhD in Economic and Development Sociology, Population Economic and Human Capital Department, National Population Studies & Comprehensive Management Institute, Tehran, Iran)
Mehdi Mokhtarpour
2
(Department of Sociology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran)
Keywords: Kurds, modernization, development, Ethnic Identity, Culture,
Abstract :
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.