Explaining the role and position of urban governance in achieving the optimal model of citizen participation: the case of qom

Rahimi, Reza; Saghafi Asl, Arash; Haghlesan, Masoud; Faramarzi Asli, Mahsa

doi:10.22034/uep.2025.540511.1699

Explaining the role and position of urban governance in achieving the optimal model of citizen participation: the case of qom

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Reza Rahimi ¹

Arash Saghafi Asl ¹

Masoud Haghlesan ²

Mahsa Faramarzi Asli ³

¹ Department of Architecture & Urban Planning, Ta. C. Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

² Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, IlK. C, Islamic Azad University, Ilkhchi, Iran

³ Department of Architecture & Urban Planning, Ta. C., Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran

10.22034/uep.2025.540511.1699

Abstract

This research, employing a mixed methodology (qualitative-quantitative), examined the structural relationships between government institutions and social actions. In the qualitative phase, thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with 35 experts (including citizens and managers) identified 10 key themes: citizen participation, governance transparency, spatial justice, infrastructure development, citizen education, institutional trust-building, urban technologies, meritocracy, local governance, and cultural cohesion. In the quantitative phase, questionnaire data from 384 citizens were analyzed with statistical tests (Friedman, regression, Pearson correlation, ANOVA, and one-sample t-test). The findings indicated a paradigmatic contrast between a centralized governance model and a multi-stakeholder participatory model, where transparency, spatial justice, and religious identity were highlighted as key dialectical axes. The Friedman test revealed a gap between the current situation (participation: 6.64; satisfaction: 7.05) and the desired state (justice: 20.31; citizen engagement: 20.07). Regression analysis confirmed the significant impact of enhancing participatory processes, conflict management, and technological synergy. A strong correlation was found between transparency, social capital, and participatory processes, indicating the mediating role of these factors. The study proposes a conceptual framework for relational urban governance centered on radical transparency, multi-scale spatial justice, and identity-based activism. By integrating Habermas’s theory of communicative action with spatial justice concepts, the model suggests strategies such as strengthening local councils, creating transparent digital platforms, and empowering citizens through related educational initiatives. The results not only expand the governance literature in religious cities but also offer a practical model for sustainable participation.

Keywords

Citizen Participation

Qom City

Social Capital

Spatial Justice

Urban Governance

20.1001.1.28212118.1405.7.1.2.8

Subjects

Urban Studies

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