Examining the Impact of Delegating Local Authorities to Councils on Enhancing Social Participation of Citizens in Bandar Abbas

Abstract

This study investigates the perspectives of local elders in Bandar Abbas regarding the impact of delegating local authorities to community councils, as a socio-civil institution, on enhancing the level of citizens’ social participation. Drawing on the principles of decentralization stipulated in Articles 100 to 106 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Law on Islamic Councils (enacted in 1996 with subsequent amendments), the present research analyzes the role of local councils in strengthening citizens’ social participation. The research employs a qualitative-descriptive method and was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 21 local elders in Bandar Abbas (individuals with a minimum of five years of experience in council activities or neighborhood affairs). The domains of delegated authority examined include local decision-making, civil dispute resolution, and local budgeting. The findings indicate that delegating financial and supervisory authorities to councils, by creating appropriate legal frameworks, reinforces citizens’ participation in local governance processes. The main obstacles include ambiguity in the delineation of responsibilities between councils and executive agencies, as well as insufficient local oversight mechanisms. The study suggests that amending the Law on Councils to clarify jurisdictions and strengthen budgetary authority would enhance social participation in Bandar Abbas and other similar regions.