Reports

Abstract In recent decades, museum paradigms have shifted from merely displaying objects to designing experiences for visitors and creating coherent narratives within museums. This approach seeks to foster deeper connections between audiences and both tangible and intangible heritage. Findings of this comparative study indicate that creative storytelling succeeds—particularly in small and local museums—when, in addition to applying prioritized combinations of relevant models, a structured process and pathway for narrative design is established. Elements such as narrative mapping aligned with the museum’s overarching goals, leveraging various types of institutional support (state and non-state), defining the storyteller’s role, and incorporating measurement indicators that capture audience feedback form the core of the creative storytelling process. Results also show that creative storytelling does not necessarily require large budgets; rather, through intelligent model integration, optimal use of available tools, and effective challenge management, this goal can be achieved. Mobile museums, collaboration with the education system, cost‑effective activities, creative digitalization accompanied by local voice actors, engagement with historical environments, and ritual or epic narrative forms can support the implementation of Article 82 of the Seventh Development Plan, which emphasizes increasing the number of active museums. Nevertheless, in future stages, museums must evolve into spaces for education and deeper engagement, moving beyond merely displaying artifacts.

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Abstract The rapid expansion of digital platforms and their growing socio‑economic influence highlight the need to revisit regulatory frameworks. South Korea—one of the global leaders in digital governance—offers a model combining general and sector‑specific regulations. South Korea’s platform regulatory framework is primarily built on two general laws: the Telecommunications Business Act and the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection. Although enacted nearly four decades ago, these laws have been continuously updated to align platform obligations and responsibilities with technological changes. In addition, South Korea applies topic‑specific legislation imposing targeted duties on platforms or specific platform types, including the Electronic Commerce Consumer Protection Act, the Newspaper Promotion Act, and the Personal Information Protection Act. Findings indicate that the strengths of the Korean model lie in its flexibility and ongoing updates. Establishing specialized bodies such as the Personal Information Protection Commission, as well as transparency reporting mechanisms, child‑protection rules, and business‑support safeguards, are notable takeaways for Iran. Conversely, shortcomings—such as the lack of platform accountability for product defects in marketplaces—should also be noted. Overall, examining Korea’s experience can inform the design of an efficient, adaptive regulatory framework for digital platforms in Iran.

Abstract The proposed bill on “organizing and overseeing the delimitation of heritage structures, mounds, and archaeological sites” represents a systematic response to long‑standing deficiencies in the protection of immovable cultural heritage, particularly archaeological mounds and sites. Despite a century‑long history of national heritage registration since 1931, boundary demarcation has remained limited and inconsistent due to institutional fragmentation, emphasis on individual buildings, lack of priority‑based planning, and the weakened role of central authorities. The bill adopts a scientific and technology‑driven approach, prioritizing heritage assets, using modern monitoring and documentation technologies, and allocating resources more effectively. While its general principles are sound, amendments are needed before detailed approval. Key shortcomings include gaps in the legal structure, oversight mechanisms, budget transparency, and community participation. Recommended revisions involve clarifying definitions and responsibilities, establishing binding mechanisms for phased budgeting, ensuring active participation of academic institutions and local communities, strengthening oversight bodies with systematic reporting, expanding the use of modern technologies, defining inter‑agency dispute resolution mechanisms, empowering provincial experts, and emphasizing coverage of unregistered heritage assets.

Abstract Legislative evaluation is one of the key instruments for improving the quality of the legislative system and enhancing governance. This process not only makes it possible to assess the degree of effectiveness and implementability of laws, but also helps identify shortcomings, remove implementation barriers, and revise policy strategies. The evaluation institution, as the main body responsible for this task, plays a fundamental role in maintaining the accuracy, transparency, and systematic nature of the legislative evaluation process, and through analyses based on real data and scientific research provides the ground for fundamental reforms. Accordingly, this research, using a descriptive–analytical approach, examines institutional models of evaluation in different governance systems. This report constitutes the second part of the series examining the structure of oversight and evaluation institutions in countries around the world, focusing on oversight and evaluation bodies in countries with presidential–unitary and presidential–federal systems. The findings indicate that in presidential–unitary countries, the implementation of evaluation is carried out in a government‑centered manner, while oversight of its results is conducted through a combination of independent evaluation bodies and parliament. In countries with presidential federal structures, due to the reduced level of influence of the central government, the role of local and regional institutions in evaluation increases. In order to determine the scope and dimensions of the institutional structure of evaluation in parliamentary, semi‑parliamentary, and presidential federal and unitary countries, a comparison was made between the findings of this report and those of the previous report. Finally, due to the similarity of the political structure and form of government in the countries examined in this report with Iran, proposals for establishing an institutional structure for evaluation in the country are presented.

Abstract Drug use and addiction are among the most widespread social harms, producing extensive negative consequences at different levels. Over the past years, numerous programs have been designed and implemented in the country to control and reduce this social harm. In this report, the most important addiction prevention programs at the national level have been reviewed and evaluated. Findings show that the major programs for addiction prevention across different environments include “NAMAD,” “KAJ,” “PATRA,” “PAZAK,” “interventions designed for addiction prevention within the primary health care system,” “Life Helpers,” and others. Some of these programs are evidence‑based and have provided services for addiction prevention to target groups. Despite these achievements, challenges such as the absence of a coherent legal framework, the diversity of organizational actors and the lack of an integrated system, the low priority of addiction prevention in the prioritization of the Drug Control Headquarters compared with treatment and harm reduction, the unacceptable performance of programs in terms of quantitative and qualitative development, insufficient funding and delayed payments, and deficiencies in implementation processes have led to the failure to achieve the desired objectives in programs for the prevention of drug use and addiction. In order to strengthen addiction prevention programs, the creation of an integrated system, the identification of groups and individuals at risk, and the provision of evidence‑based and high‑quality services to them should be given attention.

Abstract Review of the 1405 national budget bill in the field of rural and nomadic affairs shows that the total identifiable credits from related plans and programs in Annex One, the single‑article provision, and supplementary information amount to 51.74 trillion tomans, which constitutes only 1.43 percent of the government’s general expenditures (5,220 trillion tomans). On the other hand, these credits have decreased by about 4.81 percent compared with the corresponding credits in the 1404 budget law (78.2 trillion tomans), which, considering an inflation rate of about 40 percent, is highly concerning. In addition, no specific, transparent, and monitorable credit has been allocated for the development of the rural and nomadic economy and employment. This is despite the fact that by the end of the Seventh Development Plan the national Gini coefficient should reach 0.35, the absolute poverty index should reach zero, and the ratio of the tenth decile to the first decile in rural areas should decrease from 10.7 to 9.3. Overall, out of at least 16 obligations related to the Seventh Development Plan law, no credit has been allocated for five obligations, particularly sub‑clause “1” of clause “A” of Article (51), which concerns the establishment of the Organization for the Progress and Development of Villages and Nomadic Affairs under the Ministry of Agriculture Jihad, and five obligations lack transparent funding. According to Article (1) of the Law on the Requirements and Provisions Necessary for Annual Budget Laws approved in 1404, the government must include the budgetary requirements of laws in the 1405 budget bill; otherwise, it constitutes a violation of the opening clause of Principle (52) (regarding the preparation of the budget bill in accordance with legal arrangements). In this regard, proposals are presented to reform and strengthen budgeting in the field of rural and nomadic affairs.

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Abstract The 1405 national budget bill, with structural changes influenced by amendments to the parliament’s internal regulations and the addition of the “table of resource and expenditure requirements,” lacks drafted provisions and notes. This report examines the bill comparatively with upstream policy documents and the condition of the electricity industry. The review shows that the total budget of the Ministry of Energy has increased by 36.6 percent to 110 trillion tomans, of which the electricity sector accounts for 23.9 trillion tomans. Analysis of budget details indicates that in the table of requirements, while a 10 percent levy and the allocation of resources from the adjustment of electricity tariffs for industries have been specified, provisions of the Law on Removing Obstacles to the Development of the Electricity Industry—such as eliminating subsidies along the electricity value chain, insurance for electricity and gas subscribers, sectoral shares of electricity levies, and the plan for supplying liquid fuel to power plants—have been overlooked. This appears to violate the opening clause of Principle (52) regarding the necessity of preparing the budget bill in accordance with legal arrangements. In the macro tables, renewable resources financed through electricity levies and Article (16) of the Knowledge‑Based Production Leap Law have grown, but the mechanism for granting renewable energy saving certificates is not transparent. Moreover, the resources allocated for repaying government debts to the electricity industry are limited to 30.76 trillion tomans, which represents a decrease compared with the 1404 budget law.

Abstract This report provides an expert review of Chapters Six (Procedures for Handling Violations) and Seven (Miscellaneous Provisions), covering Articles 12, 13, 14, and 15 of the “Draft Law on Support and Handling of Violations in the Domain of Audiovisual Media in Cyberspace.” It is evident that designing a system for addressing violations in the audiovisual media domain—through a regulatory body acting as an administrative adjudication mechanism in the form of a quasi‑judicial authority—is essential for specialized handling of media‑related offenses. This report aims to serve as a technical guideline by identifying gaps and shortcomings overlooked by the drafters, in order to refine the text into a more accurate and expert‑driven version. While agreeing with the overall framework of the draft—particularly the quasi‑judicial nature of the process and the non‑intervention of the judiciary—the proposed text for the draft law is presented as follows: Article 12: To address violations committed by media entities subject to this law, primary and appellate review boards shall be formed. Members must hold university degrees in culture and media and possess at least five years of relevant executive or managerial experience, along with integrity and reliability. The Primary Board consists of seven members appointed by the highest-ranking authority of the relevant organization or ministry: ·        One member as Chair and one as Secretary; ·        One representative chosen by relevant professional associations; ·        One expert in socio‑political affairs; ·        One religious scholar (Level 3 seminary) knowledgeable in media jurisprudence and cyberspace jurisprudence; ·        One judge—active or retired—knowledgeable in culture and media, appointed by the Head of the Judiciary; ·        One expert in information technology and cyberspace. The Appellate Board consists of five members designated by the following bodies: ·        One member appointed by the highest‑ranking authority of the organization subject to this law, serving as Chair; ·        One representative nominated by the Supreme Council of Cyberspace; ·        One representative nominated by the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution; ·        One representative nominated by the Office of the Attorney General; ·        One representative elected by the Parliament. Note 1: The term of office for board members is two years, renewable once for an additional two‑year period. Note 2: Sessions of the Primary and Appellate Boards are convened by the Secretary and require the presence of at least five and three members, respectively. The presence of a judge is mandatory for both forming the session and validating decisions. In case of a tie, the opinion supported by the judge shall prevail. Note 3: In cases not specified in this law regarding the procedures of the Primary and Appellate Boards—except matters related to court costs—the Civil Procedure Code shall apply. Note 4: The Primary Board must invite the licensed media owner to attend at least one session—either in person or online—to provide explanations and defense. Absence does not prevent proceedings. Note 5: Expert members of the Primary Board may not hold employment positions within the regulatory authority during their term. Note 6: Simultaneous membership in both Primary and Appellate Boards is prohibited. Note 7: The secretariat of the Review Board shall be located within the relevant ministry or organization and shall fulfill its duties using existing structures and resources. Note 8: Final decisions of the Review Board may be appealed to the Administrative Justice Court. Note 9: Appointing authorities may replace their designated members if they no longer meet the required qualifications. Note 10: Review Boards are required to refer violations with criminal characteristics to the competent judicial authority for necessary action. Article 13: Case formation and the review process begin either upon complaints submitted by natural or legal persons to the secretariat of the respective regulatory authority, or through detection by monitoring systems and notifications via the regulator’s online platforms. Article 14: (Proposed text) The executive bylaw of this law shall be adopted within three months after its entry into force, according to the division of responsibilities determined by the Supreme Council of the Cultural Revolution.

Abstract According to Article 11 of the “Comprehensive Law on the Protection of Persons with Disabilities” and Article 29 of the “Law on Supporting Persons with Disabilities,” the Statistical Center of Iran is obligated to record the number and types of disabilities in national population and housing censuses. However, despite more than 21 years since the enactment of these laws, the most recent census data on persons with disabilities dates back to 2011 (approximately fourteen years ago). This gap is explicitly the result of the Statistical Center’s failure to fulfill its legal obligations during the 2016 census, and the outlook for implementation in the 2026 census also remains unclear. The absence of statistical data on persons with disabilities represents a clear case of marginalizing one of the largest groups lacking political power in social policymaking. This omission significantly affects educational policy for children with disabilities, health and rehabilitation services, accessibility initiatives, employment, implementation of the Law on Supporting Persons with Disabilities, obligations under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and other social welfare domains. Urgent intervention by oversight institutions (the Government and Parliament) is necessary to accelerate the establishment of operational infrastructures for implementing Article 29. Two key strategies are recommended: Developing the operational infrastructure required for Article 29, including national guidelines for integrating and harmonizing disability data; Creating a “National Disability Statistics Registration System” before the 2026 census, along with establishing an inter‑sectoral committee for unified disability definitions.

Abstract A review of the historical development of emerging jobs in India shows that growth in the services and IT sectors, government support policies, technological infrastructure development, investment in education, foreign investment, adoption of advanced technologies, expansion of e‑commerce, artificial intelligence and automation, and the rise of startups are among the most important drivers behind the expansion of emerging occupations.
However, these developments have also created challenges, such as imbalances between traditional and emerging jobs, issues related to insurance, pensions, hiring and firing mechanisms, and the need for technical, analytical, software, language, and specialized skills.
Recognizing the importance of these transformations, the Indian government has adopted a multidimensional strategy to stimulate emerging jobs and address related challenges. Key measures include supporting both traditional and emerging sectors, investing in infrastructure, strengthening international cooperation and private‑sector investment, expanding engagement with the private sector, reinforcing education and required skills, increasing women’s participation, and reforming or drafting new regulations.
Based on India’s successful experience, Iran can adopt similar approaches to foster economic development and create new job opportunities, such as expanding digital infrastructure, providing skills training, supporting startups, offering tax incentives and investment opportunities, reforming regulations, and enhancing public–private partnerships.

Abstract In January 2026, production and sales indices increased by 6.5% and 9.8% compared to the same month of the previous year, whereas both indicators fell by 5.4% and 4.2% compared to the previous month. During this period, the production and sales indices of the automotive and parts subsector declined by 19.6% and 12.6% year‑on‑year, while the chemical products subsector (excluding pharmaceuticals) experienced a rise of 9.9% and 13.7%, respectively. The monthly growth rate of prices for listed industrial companies increased by 12.4%, and the year‑on‑year inflation rate reached 59.9%, marking a 5.1‑percentage‑point rise from the previous month. Moreover, the average annual price index for listed industrial activities increased by 1.6 percentage points in January 2026, reaching 49.1%.

Abstract The People’s Republic of China is Iran’s primary trading partner, making a deeper understanding of China’s economy and strategic objectives essential for future bilateral cooperation. This study examines various sectors of China’s economy and governance. Although China still lags behind advanced countries in the services sector, it ranks among global leaders in many agricultural and industrial products. China’s rapid economic rise—facilitated by its infrastructure diplomacy under the Belt and Road Initiative—has enabled numerous countries to form strategic partnerships with Beijing, creating a favorable platform for expanding cooperation between China and the Global South. Iran is among the countries with significant strategic importance in both the land and maritime corridors of the initiative. However, comparative analyses of selected countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America show that the success of Chinese infrastructure projects depends heavily on the economic capacities of recipient nations. This study examines China’s economic strengths and identifies cooperation opportunities, frameworks, and strategic potential for deepening relations between Iran and China, offering policymakers a realistic view of bilateral prospects.

Abstract Oil and gas constitute major sources of national revenue, making accurate forecasting and appropriate allocation essential. The 2026 national budget bill contains several deficiencies in the oil and gas section, most notably the lack of transparency in revenue distribution and the inadequate allocation of required funds for certain key energy projects mandated by the Seventh Development Plan and other statutory budget requirements.  Given current crude oil production levels, the projected output of 4.4 million barrels of oil and condensate per day in 2026 is attainable. However, export revenues are estimated at USD 33.8 billion, which is 15% below the figure assumed in the budget bill. Key recommendations include determining the revenue shares of various entities—especially the Energy Consumption Optimization Fund—setting appropriate flaring charges, and ensuring funding for critical projects such as the Integrated Intelligent Energy Management System.

Abstract Total allocations for skills training in the 2026 national budget bill amount to 28.8 trillion tomans, representing a 34.85% increase compared to the 2025 budget law. With this allocation, the share of skills training in total public expenditures is 0.48%, an improvement over the previous year’s 0.39%. Current expenditures for skills training increased by 37.14% compared with the 2025 budget law, while capital expenditures rose by 24.42%. This is notable given that total government capital expenditures have not increased due to national economic conditions. Although this funding structure supports continuity of operations, it remains insufficient to achieve the goals of the Seventh Development Plan or to address major challenges in the skills‑training sector. Key concerns include the planned 18% increase in budget allocations for Shahid Rajaei University and 16% for the National Skills University, which do not align with projected salary increases. Additionally, the overall budget approach reflects a shift toward raising internal revenues within agencies and reducing reliance on general government funding.

Abstract This report reviews the amendments made by the Parliamentary Budget Consolidation Commission to the 2026 National Budget Bill. Based on these changes, total public revenues and expenditures increased by 996 trillion tomans. Public revenues rose by approximately 518 trillion tomans; capital asset disposals remained unchanged; and financial asset disposals increased by around 478 trillion tomans. On the expenditure side, current expenditures grew by roughly 736 trillion tomans, capital asset acquisitions by 212 trillion tomans, and financial asset acquisitions by about 48 trillion tomans. In the targeted‑subsidy section, the most significant changes involve higher allocations for commodity vouchers and increased revenues from the government’s share of oil at the revised exchange rate. Commodity voucher expenditures are projected at 996 trillion tomans. This report examines all items in the revenue and expenditure requirement tables along with their amendments. It further analyzes major and influential revenue/expenditure items whose values were altered during the commission’s review.

Abstract Rising demand for automobiles has intensified problems such as air pollution, energy waste, and dependence on fossil fuels. These challenges have turned vehicle electrification into a strategic global policy priority. To effectively enter the electric‑vehicle value chain, three analytical layers must be addressed: What: understanding the technological foundations of electrification; Why: analyzing the motivations and policies of leading countries; How: designing actionable implementation policies. This report focuses on the “why” aspect and stresses that the current approach in Iran largely lacks a comprehensive understanding of this layer, leading to fragmented decisions and uncoordinated policies.  Globally, electric‑vehicle production is not merely a technological shift but reflects deeper economic and geopolitical transformations. According to this study: ·      The EU emphasizes environmental concerns; ·      The US focuses on revitalizing domestic production and energy independence; ·      China prioritizes technological leadership, economic power, and control over global EV supply chains. For countries in earlier stages of transition, a national strategy aligned with local industrial capabilities is essential. Such a strategy must manage geopolitical risks while leveraging domestic technological and manufacturing capacities toward broader economic objectives.

Abstract The 2026 National Budget Bill differs significantly from previous years in both structure and governing policies, including the sections related to mining and mineral industries. The projected revenue from mining royalties is 770 trillion rials—a 40% increase compared to the previous year. However, calculations in this report indicate that if most of next year’s royalties are collected within the same year, revenues could reach approximately 1,500 trillion rials. Even under current constraints, raising the projected royalties to at least 1,070 trillion rials in the budget bill is feasible. Separately increasing mining transportation fees (in addition to royalties) will further raise mining costs. Moreover, although part of the collected royalties is allocated to the Ministry of Roads and Urban Development for mandated tasks, the provincial share in the draft budget is 13%, whereas the legal requirement is 15%. Similarly, the shares allocated to the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade (21%) and the Natural Resources Organization (1%) deviate significantly from the legal shares of 73% and 12%, respectively—making the bill inconsistent with constitutional Article 52. Additionally, the Geological Survey’s capital budget relies heavily on royalty revenues, which are unstable. A 50‑trillion‑rial discrepancy is also observed in collective spending tables, affecting mining allocations. Projected revenues and expenditures for IMIDRO in 2026 show increases of 56% and 37%, respectively, though revenue estimates appear understated.

Abstract Social enterprises have emerged in recent years as practical responses to the limitations of traditional charity‑based models and state‑led policies in addressing social and environmental challenges. This experience‑based study examines examples of active social enterprises in Iran engaged in social development and the acceleration of social institutions. Three development‑oriented and accelerator‑type organizations were analyzed. These institutions resemble social enterprises in mission, internal motivation, impact scale, and organizational discipline, yet differ in two key aspects:  They lack financial self‑sufficiency; They do not reinvest profits—an essential feature of true social enterprises. The report recommends that policymaking bodies establish a legal framework to standardize definitions and rules for social enterprises, enabling the growth of entrepreneurship and social business in Iran.

Abstract Despite a 484% increase in social‑support budgets and employment‑creation allocations between 2021 and 2025, Iran has seen no lasting improvement in poverty or inequality indicators. This “effectiveness gap” stems from the absence of a system to measure actual outcomes and social change resulting from large‑scale public spending. Drawing on global experience, this report shows that Social Impact Assessment (SIA) enables a systematic shift from purely economic metrics toward understanding “meaningful changes in people’s lives,” using quantitative, qualitative, and participatory methods. SIA strengthens legitimacy, reduces social risks, and enhances project improvement. Given Iran’s effectiveness gap, institutionalizing SIA is a governance necessity. The report offers three levels of recommendations:
· Developing binding legal and policy frameworks for SIA;
· Establishing localized guidelines;
· Implementing pilot projects as models.
These measures would shift national resources from “mere expenditure” toward “effective social investment.”

Abstract Timely and reliable information on changes in GDP can significantly improve macroeconomic policymaking and monitoring. Due to delays by official statistical bodies and repeated requests from MPs, the Majlis Research Center has developed a computational infrastructure to produce monthly GDP estimates. According to the Central Bank’s latest statistics, in the first half of 2025, GDP growth with and without oil was –0.6% and –0.8%, respectively. Based on the Center’s calculations, GDP at basic prices grew by 2.3% in December 2025 compared with the same month last year, while non‑oil GDP grew by 2.5%. Value added increased in agriculture (1.1%), oil (0.6%), industry and mining (2.3%), and services (2.8%). Final‑expenditure components show that private consumption grew by 2.1%, public consumption by 1.5%, gross fixed capital formation fell by 14.8%, exports grew by 2%, imports declined by 19.5%, and market‑price GDP grew by 2.9%.

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Abstract In the 2026 budget bill, total capital‑asset acquisition expenditures amount to 600 trillion tomans, distributed as follows: ·      432 trillion tomans for national executive‑agency projects (Appendix 1); ·       109 trillion tomans for provincial executive agencies; ·      59.6 trillion tomans for miscellaneous items. Appendix 1 includes 1,907 projects: ·      454 ongoing (maintenance, equipment supply, machinery procurement), totaling ~98 trillion tomans; ·      1,453 non‑ongoing (project‑type). The median project age is 18 years. Given the total required completion cost (approx. 5,150 trillion tomans) and annual funding levels, completion would take roughly eight years. Intense competition between current and capital expenditures underscores the need for better management of public investment projects. Screening projects aligned with strategic objectives and accelerating priority projects would enhance economic infrastructure and strengthen public trust.

Abstract The annual national budget is the primary mechanism for implementing the Five‑Year Development Plan and the 20‑year national vision. Article 48 of the Constitution requires that needs and growth potential be considered when allocating public resources among provinces. Given the critical importance of poverty‑reduction allocations for vulnerable populations and underdeveloped regions, oversight and equitable distribution of these funds are essential. The 2026 budget bill has notable strengths: A significant increase in poverty‑reduction allocations despite an overall contractionary budget; provincial allocation of funds based on deprivation indices. However, weaknesses include: a) inconsistency with the Five‑Year Development Plan; b) dominance of physical/quantitative rather than developmental/qualitative approaches; c) outdated deprivation data; d) neglect of completing the national monitoring system for poverty‑reduction programs. The report offers recommendations to improve the bill.

Abstract Road accidents account for 5.6% of total deaths in Iran, ranking third among causes of mortality. The vehicle itself plays a critical role in both the occurrence and severity of accidents. This report examines systems related to automotive safety standards. Of the 85 mandatory automotive standards in Iran, only seven directly pertain to vehicle and occupant safety. Evidence indicates: ·      Daytime running lights reduce accidents by 8.8%; ·      Stability control and emergency braking systems cut fatal‑accident risks by up to 34%; ·      Front and side‑impact crash standards each reduce fatalities by around 6%. The report proposes several policy measures: Continuing enforcement of all 85 mandatory standards; Adding new safety standards based on frequent‑accident data; Introducing voluntary and incentive‑based safety standards; Revising financial‑regulatory mechanisms between automakers and quality‑control agencies; Adjusting insurance premiums based on vehicle safety levels; Forming an insurance consortium to support safety‑improvement investments.

Abstract This report examines institutional challenges related to delegation of authority within Iran’s administrative system and its implications at the provincial level. Provinces are the centers of emerging public issues and demands, yet effective authority for prioritization, resource allocation, and inter‑agency coordination remains centralized at the national level. This misalignment between responsibility and authority reduces administrative efficiency, weakens accountability, and increases institutional frictions. Drawing on analyses produced by various specialized departments of the Majlis Research Center, the report identifies four key issues: limited provincial budget authority, dual command structures between governorates and line ministries, fragmented provincial councils, and the risk of territorial divergence. The report proposes institutional and operational solutions aimed at creating meaningful delegation, increasing decision‑making coherence at the provincial level, and preserving national policy cohesion. It offers a phased reform package enabling controlled, low‑risk delegation based on existing legal capacities.

Abstract Following the Islamic Revolution and the efforts to reduce social and economic inequalities, various institutions both inside and outside the government were established for poverty alleviation, and these institutions have been active in this field for about four decades. These activities have, in many cases, yielded positive results in reducing deprivation across the country, and many regions have exited their previous state of deprivation. Nevertheless, if the capabilities and strengths of institutions active in this field had been properly identified and optimally utilized- and if the allocation system of resources and facilities for deprived regions and groups had been improved - the outcomes could have been better, leading to greater relative welfare. Given the importance of this issue, this study examines the capabilities (including strengths, opportunities, visions, and results or achievements) of institutions active in poverty alleviation that either manage part of the public and private wealth or benefit from the national annual budget. A general typology places executive institutions active in poverty alleviation and their major capabilities into three main categories: 1.    Governmental institutions or those under the executive branch 2.    Supra-governmental sovereign institutions 3.    Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) This report addresses their capacities in the field of poverty alleviation.

Abstract Addiction is one of the most significant social problems in Iranian society, affecting various population groups. The interconnectedness of addiction with other social harms and the complex consequences it generates for the entire society have placed the issue at the forefront of national policy agendas. The complexity of addiction and the inadequacy of executive programs in recent decades have turned the question of how to address it into one of the main concerns of responsible authorities and relevant institutions. The 2010 amendment to the Anti‑Narcotics Law, approved by the Expediency Council, includes Articles (15) and (16) as the primary legal provisions regarding treatment and harm reduction. Under Article (15), individuals with substance dependence are obligated to visit authorized centers for treatment; otherwise, they will be recognized as offenders and, under Article (16), placed for one to three months—by judicial order—in designated facilities. Establishing residential and treatment centers for substance users under these two articles constitutes the main operational program for achieving treatment goals in the target group. This report evaluates the challenges related to the process and performance of Article (15) centers (medium‑term residential centers) and presents recommendations for optimizing and improving their functions. The findings show that these centers face shortcomings and deficiencies in various treatment and support stages that—if addressed—could significantly enhance their performance and processes.

Abstract In the 1405 budget bill, the estimated appropriations for environmental protection remain, as in the 1404 budget law, at the lowest level (rank 10 among the 10 main national functions). In the current expenditure section, several lines—such as Article (21) of the Waste Management Act and the study and design of the Urmia Lake restoration plan—have been removed, which, due to the failure to prepare the budget bill based on legal procedures, contradicts the preamble of Article (52) of the Constitution. Some lines, such as environmental fines and compensations, have also decreased significantly. In the capital asset acquisition section, despite substantial increases in items such as establishing a national environmental statistics and information system, biodiversity and wildlife protection, restoration of Anzali Wetland, and development of monitoring and pollution‑reduction systems, other items emphasized in the Seventh Development Plan—such as “economic valuation of environmental resources” and “support for equipping and organizing ordinary waste management”—have not seen significant increases. Overall, despite certain strengths like meaningful growth in capital asset appropriations, the proposed bill suffers from weaknesses such as reductions in Clean Air Act operational funding, an inappropriate distribution of revenues under Article (17) of the Mining Law Amendment, insufficient alignment with the Seventh Development Plan, and weak attention to education and public participation. The report concludes with recommendations regarding revising titles, increasing appropriations, and adding new budget lines.

Abstract With the approval of the “Knowledge‑Based Production Leap Act” in May 2022, tax credit mechanisms gained prominence as a support tool for research and development, commercialization, and ecosystem development. Given the importance of evaluating the effectiveness of this policy, the present study reviews the performance of Articles (11) and (13) during the first two years of implementation. Findings indicate that tax credits have increased companies’ motivation to execute R&D projects and invest through establishing Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) funds. However, the approval and confirmation levels remain below the potential capacity of the incentive. Between 2023 and 2024, 8.8 trillion tomans in R&D tax credits were approved, of which about 2.6 trillion tomans were confirmed and communicated to the Tax Administration. Investment tax credits totaled 1.7 trillion tomans, of which only 306 billion tomans were realized. Challenges include lack of cost‑assessment mechanisms within the Taxpayers System, insufficient awareness among firms outside Tehran, misaligned incentives between academia and industry, lack of participation by research and technology funds in investment‑related tax credit programs, absence of mechanisms for directing proposals toward national priorities, issues in the participation of the Innovation and Prosperity Fund, and concerns about investments drifting toward construction or CSR rather than innovation ecosystem development. Relevant recommendations for process improvement, transparency enhancement, and more effective utilization of legal capacities are presented.

Abstract In the 1405 budget bill, water‑related programs are primarily included under the section “Integrated Management of Water, Soil, and Vegetation,” with one additional program under “Environmental Protection, Rehabilitation, and Monitoring.” Similar to previous years, the number of water sector projects significantly exceeds that of all other sectors. Considering 183 projects under the environmental chapter and 312 projects under the integrated water chapter, the section contains approximately 495 budgetary lines—an exceptionally high figure. Total capital asset appropriations amount to 1,290,753,624 hundred rials (equivalent to 129.753 trillion tomans), reflecting a 118% increase compared to the 1404 budget. The largest allocations go to Water Supply (62.4 trillion tomans), Water Provision (31.4 trillion tomans), and Wastewater Infrastructure and Water Reuse (25.0 trillion tomans). These programs also have the highest year‑over‑year increases (126%, 100%, and 123%). Total revenues and asset/financial transfers in this sector amount to 236,080,000 hundred rials (23.6 trillion tomans), with 42% from reallocation of industrial water under Clause (1) of Paragraphs (b) and (th) of Article (39) of the Seventh Development Plan, and 21% from groundwater extraction revenues.

Abstract In annual budget laws, the non‑defense space sector includes space and aerospace fields, reflecting the cross‑organizational nature of responsible agencies. The main institutions in this area include the Ministry of ICT (primary), Ministry of Science, Research and Technology, and the Vice‑Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge‑Based Economy (secondary). Overall, program appropriations for the national space sector experienced 9% growth, rising from 5,511 billion tomans in the 1404 budget law to about 6,030 billion tomans in the 1405 bill, representing 0.1% of total public appropriations. Revenues of the non‑defense space sector show little change, slightly decreasing from 321 billion tomans (1404) to 320 billion tomans (1405).

Abstract This report reviews mandatory vehicle safety tests in Europe and selected countries including the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and India, and compares them with Iran. The mandatory tests are categorized into four major safety domains: frontal crash protection, side‑impact protection, pedestrian safety, and rollover protection. The domestic market in each country reflects the interaction between consumer protection and support for automakers. For instance, India—whose automotive industry has relatively lower technological capacity—has adopted more lenient mandatory standards considering the economic constraints of consumers, allowing local manufacturers to remain functional. Nevertheless, India plans gradual upgrades to its mandatory standards to align with advanced countries. To support evidence‑based policymaking, traffic police statistical reports were analyzed. The findings highlight the crucial role of vehicle safety in protecting occupants’ lives. The report concludes with analytical findings and policy recommendations. It is also stressed that mandatory standards merely define minimum structural performance requirements and should not be equated with actual safety levels. In global competitive markets, mandatory standards hold limited value; only strong performance in voluntary safety assessments (NCAP) indicates true vehicle safety.

Abstract According to Article (87) of the Seventh Development Plan, the Ministry of Education is obligated to ensure that at least 50% of upper‑secondary students enroll in technical‑vocational and Kar‑Danesh programs by the end of the plan. Currently, 43.02% of students study in vocational schools. A detailed review of the data shows uneven distribution of skill‑based education: 51.24% of boys attend vocational tracks (exceeding the national target), while only 35.11% of girls do so. This disparity highlights the need to strengthen infrastructure for the enrollment of female students. Based on demographic analysis, existing capacity, and future needs, the report outlines infrastructure, human resource, equipment, educational material, and financial requirements. Achieving the 50% target demands preparation for about 563,000 additional students, construction of approximately 1,252 new vocational schools, recruitment of over 51,000 teachers and instructors, revision of curricula, and roughly 200 trillion tomans in funding for spaces and equipment. The report also stresses the importance of aligning educational expansion with labor market needs to avoid a future surplus of skilled workers lacking employment opportunities.

Abstract The 1405 budget bill, as the second implementation phase of the Seventh Development Plan, is of significant importance considering prevailing economic, political, and social conditions. The declining growth rate of the industrial sector has reached near‑negative territory, and gross fixed capital formation showed a -4.8% rate in summer 1404. In this context, appropriations for the industrial sector play a crucial role in restoring dynamism. However, analysis of both current and capital asset appropriations reveals a contractionary approach, with real negative growth in most programs. Despite legal provisions supporting funds under the Ministry of Industry, Mining, and Trade, nominal growth in these funds’ appropriations is negative. Budget lines addressing debt settlements through asset transfers have been removed. Despite producer inflation exceeding 38%, appropriations for industrial estates infrastructure and cluster development have not increased. A notable positive aspect is the 42% rise in appropriations for the program supporting technical and financial assistance to industries.

Abstract The total projected allocation for the health sector in the 1405 national budget bill amounts to 10,329,198,117 million rials, reflecting a 25% increase compared to last year. The largest share is allocated to medical universities, with a 41% growth compared to the previous year. Budgetary provisions for implementing the family physician program have increased by 124%. The Ministry of Health’s share from third‑party liability insurance premiums has risen by 130%, reaching 270,000 million rials. Appropriations for the Development and Equipment Company of Health and Medical Centers have grown by approximately 50%. The bill also projects a 62% increase in universities’ dedicated revenues, whose realization depends on payments from insurance organizations and out‑of‑pocket payments. Government contributions to the Health Insurance Organization rise by about 30%; however, a gap persists between actual needs and projected allocations. Lack of transparency is observed in determining the shares of health insurance organizations, military health services, the support fund for patients with special diseases, and the health sector’s share of the USD 8.8 billion preferential currency allocation for essential goods and health. Despite Article 70(b) of the Seventh Development Plan mandating resource management through insurance mechanisms, the bill forecasts several insurance‑related revenues (e.g., third‑party premiums, subsidy targeting resources, and health taxes) outside this framework. To improve the situation, the bill requires: allocating resources to the Health Insurance Organization based on actual needs; ensuring adequate funding to fully compensate accumulated deficits; transparent distribution of allocations among insurance entities; specifying the health sector’s share of preferential foreign currency; consolidating all insurance‑nature revenues into the insurance system; and clarifying unresolved and implementation‑sensitive provisions of the Seventh Plan for proper financial planning.

Abstract According to the general social security policies and the structural law of the Comprehensive Welfare and Social Security System, Iran’s social security system comprises three domains: insurance‑based, supportive‑rehabilitative, and relief. In the 1405 budget bill, a total of 15,890,981,299 million rials (1,589 trillion tomans) is allocated to the welfare and social security sector, representing 22.7% of the government’s public expenditures. Allocations to the three domains include: (1) pension funds and social insurance: 11,836,414,561 million rials (1,183 trillion tomans, 74%); (2) supportive and empowerment programs: 3,770,464,738 million rials (377 trillion tomans, 24%); and (3) social relief: 284,102,000 million rials (28.4 trillion tomans, 2%). While aligned with the Seventh Development Plan, key challenges remain: gaps between planned allocations for government debt settlement to the Social Security Organization and Rural & Nomadic Insurance Fund versus audited government debt under Article 28(a) of the Plan; and inadequate subsistence support for Welfare Organization and Imam Khomeini Relief Committee beneficiaries under Article (31). The report concludes with recommendations to strengthen welfare and social security provisions in the bill.

Abstract This report evaluates Chapters 4 (Offenses) and 5 (Administrative Penalties) of the draft bill on “Support and Handling of Offenses in the Domain of Audio‑Visual Platforms in Cyberspace,” emphasizing the need for precise offense categorization and proportionality between violations and penalties. The current structure relies heavily on administrative control, ex‑ante supervision, and disciplinary responses. The report recommends a combined regulatory approach that simultaneously ensures oversight processes, promotes business facilitation, and safeguards user rights. Key issues identified include ambiguous definitions, lack of clear differentiation between user‑centric and publisher‑centric platforms in Chapter 4, and inadequate transparency in the implementation of certain penalties (e.g., technical or financial restrictions). The report suggests excluding criminal‑nature offenses (such as license revocation) from the bill, as they fall under judicial jurisdiction. Final recommendations aim to enhance effectiveness and legal soundness through clear offense classification, transparent implementation frameworks for sanctions, exempting news media from shutdown penalties to preserve access to information, and establishing fair and expedited appeal mechanisms.

Abstract Labour precarization refers to conditions lacking job security, sufficient wages, and standard social protections. This report explains the formation of labour precarity in Iran through the structural category of “employment scale reduction” and the institutional category of “weak labour laws.” Structurally, employment systems in recent decades have featured declining labour‑force participation, dominance of informal over formal employment, expansion of services, contraction of public‑sector employment, and increased reliance on micro‑enterprises and self‑employment instead of wage‑labour. Institutionally, five mechanisms drive precarization: (1) labour flexibilization; (2) public‑sector downsizing and the rise of triangular employment; (3) extensive labour‑law exemptions; (4) restrictions on worker organization; and (5) labour cost‑reduction strategies. Combined, these forces generate a large body of temporary, low‑income, unorganized workers exposed to unstable and vulnerable livelihoods. Policy recommendations include developing a long‑term industrial strategy for productive employment creation, updating the Labour Code and Social Security Law to match new employment structures, and clarifying Articles 7 and 41 to reduce interpretive ambiguity.

Abstract Waqf, as a form of altruism and social cooperation, can provide vital financial support to social sectors facing state‑funding constraints. Despite this potential, waqf lacks its proper societal standing in contemporary Iran. Given the Endowments and Charity Organization’s central role in governance of waqf, this report assesses its performance in promoting waqf culture. Key challenges identified include low public trust, absence of performance indicators, inadequate inter‑sectoral cooperation, insufficient attention to waqf‑promotion determinants, and lengthy legal procedures for waqf‑related cases. Recommendations include full deployment of the Waqf Transparency Platform, designing quantitative and qualitative performance indicators, mandating minimum rent values in auction notices under Article 11(w) of the Executive By‑law, and establishing a dedicated judicial oversight mechanism for waqf cases.

Abstract This report presents macro‑level indicators of Iran’s gas supply chain in 1403. Gas accounts for 70.6% of primary energy production and 54.5% of final energy consumption. Total raw‑gas production in 1403 was 1,097 million cubic meters per day, achieving 36% of the Seventh Plan’s annual target. Gas delivered to the National Gas Company amounted to 830 mcm/d, 73.1% of which originated from South Pars refineries. After deducting operational consumption and considering imports and injections, 767.2 mcm/d of natural gas reached the national grid. Average natural‑gas trade stood at 45.7 mcm/d, the lowest in four years, whereas the Plan mandates levels of 109 mcm/d for exports and 55 mcm/d for imports by its final year. Storage withdrawals reached 25.6 mcm/d during peak demand—far below the required 120 mcm/d. Final consumption of grid‑delivered gas totaled 697.7 mcm/d, increasing 2.6%, mostly due to higher household demand during cold spells and increased industrial and power‑plant usage.

Abstract An efficient and agile administrative system requires skilled and motivated human capital. However, government personnel in Iran are often viewed merely as costs rather than knowledge‑based assets. Focusing on “human‑capital monetization,” this report argues that one avenue for productivity improvement is enabling revenue generation by public employees within transparent, lawful, and private‑sector‑complementary frameworks. Such efforts require economic mapping of agencies, identification of revenue‑generating services, and incentive systems for skilled staff. Experiences such as international educational and research services offered by universities indicate that targeted human‑capital monetization, consistent with Article 44 policies, can empower staff and reduce fiscal imbalances. The report notes that inefficiencies are not merely economic: neglect of intrinsic motivation—particularly public‑service motivation—has weakened performance. Recommendations combine motivational, institutional, and employment‑system reforms, including embedding public‑service motivation in HR cycles, strengthening performance‑based rewards, developing productivity‑innovation hubs, reforming staff transfers, and differentiating between permanent and contractual employment to reduce structural inequities.

Abstract In the 1405 budget bill, revenues for the Ministry of ICT and the National Cyberspace Center are estimated at over 43 trillion tomans—a 43% increase from 1404 (approximately 30 trillion tomans). This equals 0.72% of total public‑budget resources and 1.27% of operational revenue. Approximately 93% of these revenues derive from the government’s share of telecom operator revenues, indicating high dependence on operator performance. Tariffs include a 15% customs duty on mobile phones above €600 (unchanged from 1404) and, for the first time, a 3% revenue‑share fee on AI‑related communication services and a 50‑billion‑toman license fee for AI‑related communication permits. Expenditures for the Ministry and affiliates increase from 23.8 to 30.3 trillion tomans (27% growth), with 93% spent through the Ministry headquarters. Capital‑asset acquisition accounts for 84% of spending (25.4 trillion tomans). National Cyberspace Center expenditures reach 714 billion tomans (3% growth). State‑owned telecom companies under the Ministry are projected to have 65.4 trillion tomans in revenue and 59.4 trillion tomans in expenditures.

Abstract Since its emergence in the 17th century, the nation‑state has undergone profound transformations in political structures, national identity, and international relations. Rapid advances in technologies—particularly AI—now challenge the endurance of these structures. This report explores how AI interacts with state authority and legitimacy. As AI affects governance, policymaking, and public administration, fundamental questions arise regarding the locus of authority and legitimacy in algorithmic decisions. After conceptual analysis of authority and legitimacy, the report examines state experiences in AI deployment and assesses whether AI strengthens or weakens these two pillars. AI increasingly reshapes political‑philosophical concepts, pushing authority and legitimacy toward hybrid human‑machine configurations and forming a new type of “techno‑legitimacy.” This shift demands renewed theoretical inquiry to adapt governance frameworks to digital‑era realities.

Abstract

Abstract The draft “Law on Support and Handling of Offenses in the Domain of Audio‑Visual Media in Cyberspace” has been proposed in response to the rapid evolution of the national media ecosystem and pursuant to Article 77(p) of the Seventh Development Plan. Chapter Three, titled “Facilitation and Support Mechanisms,” plays a central role in realizing a governance model for digital media, as it defines the government’s and regulator’s position as facilitators through the design and deployment of support tools alongside other regulatory instruments. This report, while affirming the overall direction of the draft, evaluates its support framework at both general and detailed levels. Findings indicate that although Chapter Three offers a diverse set of support tools—including tax incentives and financial facilities—it suffers from several shortcomings: vague definitions of support, absence of transparent executive mechanisms, excessive reliance on conventional support tools, and insufficient financial resources relative to the proposed commitments. These limitations undermine the effectiveness of especially specialized support measures. To address these issues, the report provides a detailed analysis of Article 8 of Draft No. 340 and its appendices, recommending structural and substantive reforms, including: differentiating tiers of support, clarifying technical and infrastructural support measures, stabilizing and time‑bounding tax exemptions, establishing a Support Council as a professional authority to assess eligibility, and creating novel financing and rights‑protection mechanisms.

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Abstract Like many countries, Iran faces the challenge of high plastic‑bag consumption and inadequate waste management. Regulatory efforts date back 16 years in Tehran and 3 years at the national level, yet excessive consumption and poor post‑use management remain nationwide issues. Inquiry from the Ministry of Industry, Mine, and Trade shows that due to the widespread presence of both licensed and unlicensed manufacturers (including informal “workshop‑level” producers), the government lacks accurate data on national production volumes of plastic bags by thickness. Expert assessments reveal that weaknesses such as low enforceability of the by‑law’s provisions, unrealistic targets, mismatch with national conditions, and technical‑operational barriers have limited implementation: only 3 of the 14 provisions (21%) have been fully executed, while 43% remain entirely unimplemented. This report proposes solutions focused on strengthening the legislative framework, improving public awareness campaigns, leveraging scientific and knowledge‑based institutions to develop biodegradable and eco‑friendly alternatives, establishing a national data bank, and restricting advertisements for environmentally harmful substitutes.

Abstract Revenues and expenditures of state‑owned enterprises (SOEs) in the 1405 budget bill have increased by about 40% compared to the 1404 Budget Law. Adjusted for inflation, however, SOE financial turnover has followed a generally declining trend over the past 15 years. The bill projects 117 trillion tomans in dividends from SOEs—a 17% increase from 1404. A major portion of the 17‑trillion‑toman increase stems from higher Central Bank dividends, rising from 40 trillion tomans (1404) to 55 trillion tomans (1405). A noteworthy improvement in the 1405 bill is increased transparency regarding the number of loss‑making SOEs, which is considered a positive development.

Abstract Government capital‑asset (development) projects are critical for long‑term economic growth and social welfare. Yet the management system governing such projects in Iran suffers from structural challenges, leading to widespread delays and a large backlog of unfinished projects. This report analyzes ten years of national project data using the Public Investment Management Assessment (PIMA) framework. Findings show declining and volatile expenditures (aligned with oil‑revenue fluctuations), rising project age, reduced share of new projects aligned with contemporary needs, and disproportionate focus on small‑scale projects. Evidence further suggests that even short‑term (one‑year) forward planning is plagued by major deficiencies. Although funding shortages play a role, structural weaknesses in project management extend beyond budget constraints. Two foundational principles guide the proposed solutions: enhanced transparency through comprehensive project‑data disclosure, and creation of incentive mechanisms to discourage continuation of unjustified projects. Recommended measures include budget rules to shield investment spending from fiscal shortfalls, stronger medium‑term planning, improved project selection and evaluation systems, alternative financing sources, private‑sector partnerships, and systematic project screening.

Abstract Total Ministry of Education appropriations for 1405 amount to 587 trillion tomans—a 25.61% increase compared to last year—representing 9.86% of public budget expenditures. Of this, 92% is operating expenses and only 8% capital expenditures. Key challenges in the draft budget include: underestimation of revenues from certain Seventh Development Plan sources (e.g., gas surcharges, VAT); a 20% reduction in school health and physical‑education funding; only 2% growth in cultural‑program funding; near‑privatization of Farhangian University via a 130% increase in dedicated revenues; prioritization of renovation over new construction and debt repayment to school‑building philanthropists; lack of attention to operational challenges in the school milk distribution program; continued wage disparity between education staff and other public employees; and failure to account for outstanding teacher claims. Suggested remedies include prioritizing boarding and disadvantaged schools within student‑nutrition funding, transferring the warm‑meal program from the Ministry of Welfare to the Ministry of Education, restoring an independent budget line for implementing the Fundamental Transformation Document, allocating bond‑sale revenues to build “Hayat‑Tayyebeh” school complexes, adjusting gas‑surcharge revenue forecasts, and realistically estimating VAT‑based education allocations.

Abstract This report reviews allocations for technology development and knowledge‑based activities in the 1405 budget bill. Findings show that the combined share of the Vice‑Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge‑Based Economy and the Innovation and Prosperity Fund from the Dedicated Revenues of the Knowledge‑Based Production Leap Law has increased by only 10%, reaching 28.57 trillion tomans. Allocations under Article 99(p) of the Seventh Development Plan—amounting to 22.9 trillion tomans—have only been realized at roughly 40%. Allocations under Article 99(t) for frontier technologies have been removed entirely. Funding for renewable‑energy development (Article 16 of the Knowledge‑Based Production Leap Law) has faced distribution and allocation issues for several years, despite being collected from high‑consumption industries. The “National AI Program” under Article 65© of the Seventh Plan receives about 1.25 trillion tomans from ICT‑sector revenues—an amount significantly below global investment norms and government participation levels in AI. Overall, the government’s role in financing critical frontier technologies, including AI, appears insufficient. The report concludes with targeted policy recommendations.

Abstract Total supportive (anti‑poverty) allocations—including cash, quasi‑cash, and price subsidies—amount to roughly 1,090 trillion tomans in the 1405 budget bill, equal to 18.5% of the public budget and 18% growth over 1404. Approximately 65% of these allocations remain universal rather than targeted. Should the preferential‑currency reform for essential goods be completed and replaced by a universal “commodity‑voucher” subsidy (as initiated in winter 1404 during parliamentary review), supportive allocations would rise to 1,964 trillion tomans (≈33% of the public budget). Under this scenario, universal subsidies increase to 88% of total support, while targeted subsidies fall to 12%. Despite these structural issues, due to the 1404 reform and introduction of universal electronic vouchers, households under supportive institutions face no extreme poverty, with the severe‑poverty rate reaching zero among these groups by end‑1404. Beyond the universal voucher program, the highest growth in allocations is for supportive‑institution pensions (36%), followed by child‑nutrition and wheat‑subsidy programs (28% and 20%). The report argues that through diversification of support instruments and improved targeting—even without increasing total resources—the anti‑poverty effectiveness of the 1405 supportive budget can be significantly enhanced.

Abstract Article 48 of the Constitution requires that public resources be distributed among provinces based on need and development potential. Over recent decades, deprivation indicators regarding access to basic services have sharply declined nationwide. For example, in rural areas between 1984 and 2023, deprivation in access to electricity dropped from 42% to zero, piped gas from 99.7% to 19%, piped water from 55% to 3.5%, and household bathrooms from 91.6% to 3.7%. Despite these achievements, severe deprivation persists in some regions, signaling persistent policy challenges. Currently, 2,424 unfinished deprivation‑reduction projects exist nationwide: 1,352 rural‑school projects, 634 rural‑road projects, 133 watershed‑management projects, and 305 rural‑health‑center projects. The 1405 budget bill allocates 210 trillion tomans to deprivation‑reduction—21% growth over 1404—yet historical data show that actual disbursements typically fall below 50%. A positive point is inclusion of resources under Article 32(t) of the Permanent Provisions Law (two‑thirds of 3% of oil and gas exports for deprived areas) and balanced‑development provisions.

Abstract Progress is the foremost concern of contemporary Iran. Monitoring and evaluating national development trajectories—and enabling comparisons across time and with other countries—requires carefully designed quantitative indicators. This report seeks to introduce such indicators for the domain of labour and employment as key drivers of progress. Justice is the primary distinguishing principle of the progress‑based approach compared to conventional development theories, serving as the epistemic foundation of progress. Thus, proposed indicators aim to satisfy requirements of distributive justice. Since justice, like progress, is broad in scope, this report focuses specifically on primary distribution and preparatory equality within the labour domain. The report presents 48 components across four major dimensions: “Right to Life,” “Right to Liberty,” “Right to Social Life,” and “Right to Access to Basic Resources.” These components collectively offer an initial framework for conceptualizing progress in the labour domain. Given their varied nature and importance, the report explains in detail the methodology for aggregating and weighting these components.

Abstract In recent years, the gap between electricity supply and demand has steadily increased, underscoring the urgent need to revise consumption‑management strategies and expand generation capacity. Accordingly, the Seventh Development Plan sets specific quantitative targets for enhancing available electricity capacity and improving energy efficiency. These targets include raising nominal power‑plant capacity to 124,000 MW—of which 12,000 MW should come from renewable sources—and improving thermal‑power‑plant efficiency to 44%. The Plan also mandates that by the end of 1407, the supply–demand balance at peak‑load hours must reach a positive 1,632 MW. However, during the summer of 1404, this balance registered −14,746 MW, reflecting a substantial deviation from the target. This report evaluates electricity‑sector performance in the first half of 1404 compared with the corresponding period in 1403, assessing progress toward the quantitative targets defined in the Seventh Development Plan. Additionally, an “Energy Security Index” is introduced, which will be applied in subsequent reports. Overall findings indicate that achievement levels for the Seventh Plan’s electricity‑sector targets remain below the required trajectory.

Abstract In order to present a macro‑level picture of energy indicators, this report reviews the indicators of the natural gas chain in 2024. Iran’s primary energy production and final energy consumption are highly dependent on natural gas, such that 70.6 percent of total energy production and 54.5 percent of the energy consumption basket of end‑use sectors depend on gas. In 2024, total raw gas production reached 1,097 million cubic meters per day, achieving only 36 percent of the target set in the Seventh Development Plan. Gas delivered to the National Iranian Gas Company amounted to 830 million cubic meters per day, of which 73.1 percent was supplied by South Pars refineries. After deducting operational consumption and considering imports and injections, a total of 767.2 million cubic meters of natural gas per day was delivered to the national transmission network. Average natural gas trade amounted to 45.7 million cubic meters per day, the lowest level in the past four years. This is while by the end of the Seventh Development Plan, Iran’s gas exports and imports are expected to reach 109 and 55 million cubic meters per day respectively. Regarding the use of storage reservoirs, at peak consumption 25.6 million cubic meters per day of required gas was supplied from storage, which remains far below the plan’s target of 120 million cubic meters per day. Of the total gas delivered to the national network, about 697.7 million cubic meters per day were used for gas distribution, representing a 2.6 percent increase. The main increase in consumption resulted from higher residential demand due to severe winter cold as well as increased demand from industrial and power generation sectors.

Abstract According to Sub‑paragraph (1) of Paragraph (Th) of Article (48) of the Seventh Five‑Year Development Plan Law, the Competition Council is required to prioritize monopoly‑dominated sectors and take the necessary measures to establish at least three sectoral regulatory authorities by the end of the second year of the Seventh Plan. This legal obligation responds to structural regulatory challenges—such as economic inefficiency and insufficient independence of current regulators in key sectors like the electricity industry. Although the responsibility lies with the Competition Council and the Government, Parliament, due to delays in implementing the law, independently drafted Bill No. 262 titled “Establishment of an Independent Electricity Sector Regulator,” which was formally submitted to the Islamic Consultative Assembly on February 24, 2025, as an eight‑article bill. The bill is considered relatively significant for improving governance decision‑making in the electricity industry and enhancing the efficiency of the electricity market. Establishing an independent regulator—by separating regulatory tasks from ownership and operation of generation, transmission, and distribution—would enable better economic regulation and strengthen competition in the electricity market. Therefore, passing this bill is advisable, provided that the mentioned concerns are addressed to prevent potential adverse effects.

Abstract In academic terms, “social damage” refers to phenomena that deviate from accepted social norms and disrupt individual well‑being, family functioning, or social order on a broad scale. One of the most important policy arenas for preventing and controlling social damages is the annual national budget, which—作为 a “social policy document”—determines how funds are allocated among the responsible institutions. The total appropriations for social‑damage‑related programs in the 1405 Budget Bill amount to 7.604 trillion tomans, representing an 11% increase compared with the 1404 Budget Law. Three specialized institutions in the field of “prevention and control of social damages” together receive about 83% of all relevant appropriations, with the Anti‑Narcotics Headquarters holding the largest share at 34.6%. The only specialized body that experiences a budget decrease compared with the 1404 Budget Law is the Social Affairs Organization. The share of “prevention‑oriented” appropriations also increases from 34% to 38%. The report’s findings are presented not merely through numerical comparison but through an evaluation of the quality of budgetary governance in the area of social damages. Finally, recommendations are provided for strengthening the above governance dimensions in the distribution of social‑damage‑related appropriations in the 1405 Budget Bill.

Abstract During the eleventh legislative term (May 27, 2020 to May 26, 2024), a total of 154 laws were enacted. Among these, 26 laws contain 485 provisions that directly—and in some cases indirectly—support production, investment, and business activity. The “Seventh Five‑Year Development Plan Law” alone includes 252 provisions, accounting for about 52% of all supportive provisions. Furthermore, 36% of the remaining provisions are distributed across nine major laws related to: production financing and infrastructure, amendments to Articles (1) and (7) of the Law on the Implementation of the General Policies of Principle 44 of the Constitution and its subsequent amendments, Knowledge‑Based Production Leap, Protection of Industrial Property, the Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran Law, Facilitation of Business Licensing, Removal of Barriers to the Development of the Electricity Industry, Housing Production Leap, and amendments to the Anti‑Smuggling Law. In total, 88% of the 11th Parliament’s supportive provisions are embedded within ten legal instruments. Therefore, the Islamic Consultative Assembly must ensure the proper and complete implementation of these legal provisions through its constitutional oversight tools. Of the 485 provisions identified, 272 pertain to all economic sectors, followed by the sectors of industry, energy, and agriculture.

Abstract The appropriations for the higher education sector in the 1405 Budget Bill are estimated at more than 198 trillion tomans, representing 3.33% of the government’s general budget expenditures. The share of public appropriations for higher education from total public expenditures is calculated at 2.98%. The share of research and technology expenditures from GDP is 0.23%. For specific institutions, the operating budget for the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology (MSRT) and its affiliated universities is estimated at more than 94 trillion tomans, a 21% increase over the 1404 Budget Law. The Ministry of Health has allocated around 71 trillion tomans to its educational and research programs, representing about 9% of its total appropriations (800 trillion tomans). Budget growth for the Vice Presidency for Science, Technology, and Knowledge Based Economy is 9%; for the Agricultural Research, Education, and Extension Organization and affiliates, 26%; and for the Academic Jihad organization, 12%. Comparison with the Seventh Development Plan shows improved alignment relative to the 1404 budget. However, weaknesses remain, including: insufficient attention to R&D funding, inadequate support for talented students, lack of updated laboratory and workshop equipment, and—most importantly—the absence of a national higher education spatial planning framework, which increases unavoidable university costs. The report recommends strengthening cultural budgets and consolidating the budget lines of small, low performance universities.

Abstract Given the Ministry of Interior’s essential role in governance and implementing public policies throughout the country—through governors, district governors, and section chiefs as the government’s senior representatives—this report reviews the Ministry’s appropriations in the 1405 Budget Bill. First, an overview of the Ministry’s and affiliated organizations’ appropriations is provided. Then, operating and capital asset expenditures are analyzed across the Ministry and its subordinate institutions. Based on the Ministry’s duties, mission statements, and upper level legal documents, several recommendations are presented, including: the need to include a dedicated budget line for the vehicle inspection integrated system in Table (7 1); inclusion of performance indicators for Ministry programs; submission of an implementation report for the 1404 Budget Law; revising certain program titles and amounts based on Seventh Plan obligations; and transferring some items from miscellaneous appropriations (Table 9) to Table (7). Additionally, in accordance with Article (182) of the Parliament’s Internal Regulations and to enable oversight of the Seventh Plan implementation, item level obligations relating to the Ministry must be clarified in the 1405 budget regarding financing.

Abstract A comparison of the 1405 Budget Bill with the 1404 Budget Law shows that appropriations for institutions responsible for family, women, population, adolescents, and youth have increased by 23.6% to 3.4 trillion tomans. Nevertheless, several challenges remain, including: decreasing appropriations for the program “Strengthening the Family Institution, Population Growth, Women’s Empowerment, and Youth Affairs”; absence of major executive bodies under this program; unclear institutional responsibility for population related appropriations; removal of childbirth related benefits; lack of tax exemptions under Article (18) of the Family and Population Support Law; failure to implement provisions relating to free land and housing; lack of increased family allowance scores under Article (16); overly form based rather than problem based treatment of adolescent affairs; removal of youth marriage benefits; minimal youth sector appropriations within the Ministry of Sports and Youth; and absence of a defined youth sector share in the Ministry’s miscellaneous budget. The report recommends: designating the Secretariat of the National Population Headquarters as the authority for population related appropriations; implementing Article (18) (tax exemption) and Article (16) (increasing family allowance scores); and allocating 40% of the Ministry of Sports and Youth’s miscellaneous appropriations—via 0.27% of VAT—directly to youth affairs such as marriage, vocational training, and leisure.

Abstract The annual budget law allocates resources to the cooperative sector primarily based on the general policies of Principle (44) of the Constitution and its implementing law; however, these resources are inadequately reflected in the 1405 Budget Bill. Aside from the low overall budget level, almost no growth or new initiative is visible in the cooperative sector. The Bill primarily increases the capital of the Cooperative Development Bank and the Cooperative Investment Guarantee Fund and provides financial assistance to the Chamber of Cooperatives. As a result, no operational program—such as implementation of cooperative sector development plans, national inclusive cooperatives, insurance premium discounts, or other legal obligations and targets—is included in the Bill. In accordance with Article (182) of the Parliament’s Internal Regulations and for enabling oversight of the Seventh Development Plan, item level obligations related to the cooperative sector (including Paragraph (3) of Article (119)) must be clarified in the 1405 Budget Bill regarding whether they are being implemented or not.

Abstract People‑centered evaluation is a new approach in public policymaking that, by placing citizens at the core of the evaluation process, redefines the relationship between the state and society. In this model, people are not merely recipients of policies but active, informed actors and epistemic partners in decision‑making processes. By conducting a thematic analysis of the statements of the leaders of the Islamic Revolution, this report extracts the theoretical and value foundations of merit‑based people‑centeredness and demonstrates that this approach has deep roots in the intellectual tradition of the Islamic Revolution. The thematic analysis reveals six fundamental principles: (1) honoring the dignity of the people in policymaking; (2) the public’s right to oversight and the transparency of power; (3) the necessity of obtaining a sense of public satisfaction; (4) the importance of people’s perception of governmental effectiveness; (5) the obligation to respond to public demands; and (6) the necessity of public persuasion and explanation of policies. These principles represent a form of an “Iranian–Islamic evaluation model,” in which people—regarded as the owners of the Revolution—serve as judges of officials’ performance and guarantors of the system’s legitimacy. The report concludes by presenting a set of legislative, oversight, and policy recommendations for institutionalizing people‑centered evaluation within the governance structure. These include incorporating satisfaction and accountability indicators into the official evaluation system, increasing transparency of performance data for public access, utilizing civil society organizations in evaluation processes, and institutionalizing social dialogue between the government and the public. The outcome of such an approach would be the reconstruction of public trust, strengthening of legitimacy, and enhancement of governance effectiveness.

Abstract With declining ore grades and increasing global demand for mineral resources, the exploitation of mining waste has attracted growing attention as an economic resource. In addition, the presence of associated elements—such as rare earth elements—in mining waste further increases its economic importance. In Table (11) of Article (47) of the Seventh Five‑Year Development Plan Law of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the legislator has recognized this importance by setting a performance indicator targeting the recovery of a percentage of the iron content present in mine and processing‑plant waste. Despite this, actions taken in Iran regarding the utilization of mining waste have largely been limited to research projects, and only a few cases have reached the stage of industrial exploitation. Until now, mining policymakers have primarily focused on extracting the main minerals in the country’s deposits, while policymaking related to the exploitation of associated minerals—particularly in large mines—has received far less attention. As a result, comprehensive lists of associated minerals and elements are often not fully recorded in discovery certificates or mining licenses, leading to an incomplete understanding of the status of associated elements in mining waste across the country. Therefore, in order to enable targeted policymaking regarding associated elements, it is necessary to clearly define both main and associated minerals in the Mining Law and to establish separate policy frameworks for each category. Moreover, since the best time to identify and monitor associated elements is at the early stages of mining activity—during exploration certification and the issuance of exploitation licenses, before these elements enter tailings dams and their economic detectability is lost—the supervision of exploration activities should be reformed to significantly improve the comprehensiveness, quality, and reliability of exploration data. Improving exploration data quality, along with establishing a national mining‑waste information database, would facilitate policymaking and planning for the utilization of mining waste. Based on the identified challenges, this report finally presents proposals for reforming executive processes and incorporating necessary provisions into the Mining Law.

Abstract Estimating the economic effects of policymakers’ decisions is essential for evaluating policies and optimizing future decision‑making. Accordingly, this study aims to estimate such economic effects for a specific policy through economic modeling and econometric methods. Using data from the city of Tehran and applying econometric techniques, the study estimates the causal effect of the demolition and redevelopment of private gardens in the city and the spillover effects on the value of adjacent properties. The findings indicate that in most cases, the demolition and redevelopment of private gardens have led to an increase in the prices of neighboring properties. For example, in the long run, each additional hectare of demolished and redeveloped garden area increases the price of adjacent properties by an average of 1.4%, and in some cases up to 3.6%.

Abstract In today’s world, diaspora communities are recognized as an important capacity for enhancing countries’ global engagement and international diplomacy. Studies indicate that many countries, recognizing the importance of this issue, have adopted diverse policy approaches to leverage this capacity in order to improve governance indicators. Examination of the experiences of countries such as India, China, South Korea, and Ireland shows that through targeted legislation and policies, as well as by establishing specialized institutions—such as India’s Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs and Ireland’s Ministry responsible for diaspora affairs—these countries have successfully utilized their diaspora communities in various dimensions of governance. Statistics indicate that these countries have achieved significant progress through this capacity in areas such as political lobbying (for example, the role of Indian‑Americans in the India–US nuclear agreement), economic development (such as the role of overseas Chinese in attracting foreign investment), and strengthening public diplomacy. Iran, with a diaspora population exceeding five million people—according to official statistics from the Secretariat of the Supreme Council of Iranians Abroad—possesses considerable potential for improving its governance. This population can play an important role in enhancing Iran’s governance indicators. However, based on the experiences of successful countries, effective utilization of this capacity requires a shift from a threat‑oriented perspective to an opportunity‑oriented approach. The policy evolution of successful countries shows that they first adopted appropriate approaches and built trust with their diaspora communities, thereby enabling their participation in various governance processes. Accordingly, Iran can, by considering its domestic conditions and developing comprehensive laws and policies informed by successful international experiences, facilitate engagement with Iranian diaspora communities and utilize this capacity in a coherent and opportunity‑oriented manner to improve governance indicators in political, economic, and cultural domains.

Abstract In recent years, Iranian football clubs have faced a significant number of international complaints. A large portion of these cases relates to breaches of contractual obligations toward foreign players and coaches. This situation has imposed heavy financial losses on Iranian football and has also challenged the international reputation of the clubs. This report analyzes international football disputes involving Iranian clubs over a five‑year period (from 2020 to the end of 2024), identifying the key issues, determining the main causes of rulings against the clubs, and presenting preventive solutions. The analysis shows that the primary cause of complaints by players and coaches is the financial inability of clubs to fulfill their contractual obligations on time. Under international legal practice and contractual provisions, this situation allows players or coaches to terminate contracts and claim compensation. Other contributing factors include weak expertise in sports law among domestic managers and lawyers, lack of specialization in decision‑making and executive institutions (such as the Ministry of Sports and Youth and the Football Federation), absence of an independent national arbitration body, insufficient legal oversight of contracts, and the influence of political and media relations on international tribunals. To address these challenges, the report proposes measures such as strengthening financial self‑sufficiency and transparency in clubs, reforming club ownership and management structures to reduce financial dependence on the government, enhancing oversight of contracts through a transparent dispute‑tracking system, providing specialized training for managers and lawyers, and establishing an independent arbitration institution within the country.

Abstract The transformation of labor markets and the emergence of new occupations simultaneously create opportunities and challenges for governments, firms, and the workforce. Adopting flexible policies in legislation, insurance, and pension systems—along with targeted investments in education and skill development—can manage many of these challenges and unlock opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation. Germany, due to its strong educational infrastructure, social partnership model, and government support for the digital economy, provides a notable example of managing emerging occupations. Key policy measures implemented in Germany include: legal reforms such as the legal recognition of platform work, facilitation of remote work, and regulatory frameworks for freelancers; insurance and pension policies including flexible insurance schemes and the development of pension funds for the self‑employed; specialized training programs such as firm‑based training and collaboration between companies, universities, and research institutions; and a social partnership model involving active participation of labor unions and employer associations in developing digital‑labor policies. Based on Germany’s experience, several policy recommendations for promoting emerging occupations in Iran are proposed, including reforming labor law and defining emerging occupations, increasing flexibility in employment relations and contract forms, establishing a digital one‑stop window for business registration and licensing of emerging activities, increasing flexibility in insurance and pension systems, investing in the dual education system (theoretical and practical) for digital skills training, innovating employment models and labor contracts, and strengthening the culture of innovation and social participation.