Analyzing The Impact Of Cultural-Oriented Socio-Economic Programs Of Non-Governmental Organizations On The Improvement Of Multidimensional Poverty Indicators In Iran

Subject Areas : Social issues of Iran

زهرا حاجی‌زاده ¹ , خلیل میرزایی ^{2 *} , مجید رادفر ³

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Accepted : 2025-09-08 Published : 2025-09-09

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Abstract :

The primary aim of this study is to examine the role and impact of socio-economic programs and policies of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), with a cultural approach, on improving multidimensional poverty indicators in Iran. This research adopts a descriptive methodology, and the statistical population includes managers, experts, and consultants active in NGOs across the country. A sample of 400 participants was determined, and data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire validated for content and construct reliability, demonstrating satisfactory reliability. The questionnaire was designed to evaluate the extent of NGOs’ programs and policies in reducing poverty, as well as to identify existing challenges and opportunities. Regression analysis results indicate that the variables “meeting basic needs,” “financial and credit assistance,” and “empowerment of the poor” have a significant positive effect on poverty reduction. Conversely, the variable “social cohesion between the general population and the poor” exhibited a significant negative effect on poverty alleviation, highlighting serious challenges in socially fragmented contexts. Additionally, the variable “NGO capacity” did not have a significant impact on poverty reduction, reflecting potential structural and operational weaknesses within some organizations. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that sustainable poverty reduction requires strengthening NGOs’ socio-economic policies, enhancing social cohesion in target communities, and institutional capacity-building of these organizations. Consequently, it is recommended that governmental and civil institutions adopt supportive measures and foster effective collaborative frameworks to enhance NGOs’ capacity for poverty alleviation.