JOURNAL OF GEOGRAPHICAL STUDIES OF MOUNTAINOUS AREAS
Year:2024 | Volume:5 | Issue:4|Papers Count:12

IntroductionUrban regeneration is an endogenous development approach aimed at creating balance in population distribution, coordinating access to social services, and reducing urban poverty through social participation and leveraging existing urban planning capabilities. Due to the complexity of urban regeneration programs, their nature significantly differs from other urban development initiatives. These programs involve multiple stakeholders and beneficiaries, including government organizations, private sector developers, and local residents, which complicates the process. Public participation in this process leads to increased social capital, a sense of belonging to a place, and accountability towards the locality. Therefore, participation in regeneration projects is essential and can contribute to their feasibility.Considering the theoretical foundations and experiences of the urban regeneration approach, the lack of theoretical development in this area in Iran has resulted in mere imitation of global experiences. In recent years, concepts and mechanisms for public participation and groundwork for creating coordination among various departments and organizations, as well as integrated management, have gained attention. However, what has not yet been realized is the participation of residents in regenerating their living areas. This issue stems from a lack of trust in the urban management system and the hesitance of planners and urban managers to recognize the capabilities of citizens in decision-making and determining local development strategies. Furthermore, the absence of civic education and the failure to transfer information from urban management to citizens, along with the lack of social education infrastructure for residents, alienation from the decision-making bodies, and the exclusion of people from the power structures for neighborhood development and wealth distribution, are also contributing factors. These issues highlight that the role of community and social-political structures in urban regeneration programs in Iran has been overlooked.Given the existing challenges in the realm of participation, a less addressed question is whether such an approach can be implemented similarly in cities and neighborhoods with differing social, economic, and cultural characteristics. Moreover, can social participation help achieve a better understanding of the issues within target areas for urban regeneration and lead to the selection of optimal solutions? It seems necessary to pay more attention to what type of participation can be constructive and how to consider the interests of various groups through participation.The present research is descriptive-analytical and applied. Given the characteristics and dimensions of the study, a library-documentary method has been employed for data collection and analysis. The analysis has been conducted using a comparative approach. The process of planning the Joadiye neighborhood in Bojnord has been carried out with a participatory approach in six stages: assessing the neighborhood's status, identifying local problems, formulating an ideal vision for the neighborhood, developing spatial goals and strategies, policy-making, and finally, implementing actions.  MethodologyIn order to examine the urban regeneration plan in the Joadiye neighborhood and the extent and type of citizen participation, relevant information regarding this plan has been selected as the statistical population. To assess the level of citizen participation and identify the factors influencing it, as well as the preferred participation model of the citizens, a questionnaire was randomly distributed among the residents. For determining the sample size, Cochran's formula and the methodology proposed by Adam (2020) were employed. Considering a confidence level of 90% and a margin of error of 0.5, the sample size for the Joadiye neighborhood, which consists of 1,253 households, was determined as follows:Sample Size: N = 221After completing the questionnaires, the obtained data were systematically coded and entered into SPSS software for statistical analysis. To identify the factors affecting participation and develop the final research model, multiple regression analysis was conducted following the examination of correlations among the identified variables. This research is descriptive-analytical and applied in nature. For data collection, both library-documentary methods and questionnaire completion were utilized, and the data were analyzed using comparative and inferential methods. These approaches assist researchers in gaining a better understanding of the factors influencing citizen participation in urban regeneration processes and in providing suitable strategies to enhance such participation. ResultsThe results from the modeling indicate a significant relationship between the level of trust in authorities, familiarity with the urban regeneration plan, and the willingness to participate in the planning process. Additionally, fostering relationships among neighborhood residents and creating opportunities for presence in public spaces within the neighborhood can enhance citizens’ willingness to collaborate and brainstorm about identifying neighborhood needs and developing development programs. This, in turn, can serve as a step toward the renovation and improvement of the neighborhood.  DiscussionBased on the findings obtained from the research model, the impact of various variables on the preferred methods of citizen participation in urban regeneration is clearly observable. The following points are presented as key findings of this study:Neighborhood Connections: The closer and more amicable the relationships among neighbors, the greater the willingness to participate in addressing local issues. This highlights the importance of creating and strengthening social ties among residents to enhance participation in local activities. Participation in public meetings and conversations with fellow residents are considered effective tools for reinforcing these relationships.Willingness to Remain in the Neighborhood: Residents who have less inclination to stay in their neighborhood and are more likely to consider leaving it exhibit a lower sense of responsibility towards local issues. This results in a diminished willingness to engage in regeneration initiatives. Therefore, fostering a sense of belonging and permanence within the neighborhood can be one of the strategies to increase participation.Belief in the Impact of Opinions: Individuals who believe that their opinions can influence projects are more likely to participate in regeneration efforts and collaborate in neighborhood revitalization, especially when informed about the details and processes involved. This indicates that communication and transparency in decision-making processes can enhance motivation for participation.Trust in Local Authorities: The positive relationship between trust in local authorities and the willingness to cooperate in neighborhood renewal and improvement suggests that the greater citizens' trust in officials and their programs, the more likely they are to engage confidently in revitalization projects. This trust can manifest as individual actions or investments in development initiatives within the neighborhood. Overall, these findings emphasize the importance of strengthening social relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, ensuring transparency in decision-making processes, and building trust between citizens and local authorities to enhance citizen participation in urban regeneration projects. ConclusionThe reasons for the lack of a collaborative framework in urban regeneration documents can be summarized as followsIntroduction of the Concept of Participation Without Necessary Pre-conditions: The concept of participation and participatory planning has been introduced into the country's planning structure abruptly, without establishing the necessary infrastructure.Mismatch Between Participation Models and Political Structure: The designed participation models do not align with the political structure and planning framework of the country, leading to ineffective participation.Neglect of Past Experiences: The failure to analyze and learn from past trends and the reasons for unsuccessful projects in achieving their defined goals results in the repetition of mistakes and new failures.Cultural and Social Diversity: Structural social and cultural differences within Iranian society, along with a lack of attention to these contexts in defining the concept of participation, contribute to the challenges in its implementation.Lack of Attention to Individual Capabilities: Ignoring individual abilities and capacities for social action and the realization of participation is another reason for weakness in this area.Unclear Status of Citizens: The status of citizens in the planning process is not clearly defined, creating ambiguity that hinders their active participation.Dominant Role of the State: The prominent presence of the state and affiliated institutions at all stages of planning reduces the necessary space for effective citizen participation.Low Public Awareness: The general public's awareness regarding planning processes and the role of citizens within them is low, which impedes their active involvement.Low Level of Public Trust: Public trust in governmental institutions and planning processes is low, which negatively affects citizens' willingness to participate.These factors collectively hinder the establishment of an effective framework for participation in urban regeneration processes, necessitating serious attention and reforms in policies and approaches.AcknowledgmentsThis article is derived from the PhD thesis of the first author titled “Explaining the role of participation in the regeneration of urban fabrics: a case study of the city of Bojnord”, which is being conducted at the Faculty of Urban planning, college of Fine Arts, University of Tehran.

IntroductionConsidering that the vulnerability of the physical part of the city has a direct effect on the human casualties caused by the crisis. Vulnerability is usually aggravated as a result of indiscriminate constructions in the boundaries of faults, non-compliance with rules and standards, inappropriate distribution of population and facilities in the city. Analyzing how to be resilient against threats and reducing its effects, considering the results it will bring and explaining the relationship between physical resilience and this natural hazard, seems necessary.Physical resilience is one of the influential dimensions in the resilience of societies, through which the state of societies can be evaluated in terms of physical and geographical characteristics that are effective in the event of an accident in the time of hazards.One of the most important natural hazards that endanger Iran is the natural phenomenon of earthquakes. According to published statistics, 170 earthquakes with high power have occurred in the world in the last hundred years, of which Iran's share was 18%. Among the cities that have a high seismic potential and the study area of ​​this research includes the city of Jajarm. Jajarm is one of the areas that is always at risk of earthquakes and has witnessed more than 16 earthquakes above 4 Richter in the last decade.Which has always been a threat to the region. Proximity to the Jajarm fault, the Khazar fault and the North Alborz fault from the west side of the region and the Kopeh-Dagh fault in the north of Jajarm city; it has caused this region to be always exposed to earthquakes. With active faults in the heights of Kopeh-Dagh, it can be predicted that the probability of a destructive earthquake in the region is high.On the other hand, from a human point of view, there are factors such as lack of attention to the safety of buildings, the existence of dilapidated structures in most parts of the city, lack of building quality, improper design and implementation of passages, lack of plans and operational capabilities necessary for managing accidents in the response and dealing with The consequences of the accident caused resilience to be considered as an important issue, especially from the aspect of urban passages. In this regard, the aim of the current research is to Investigating the resilience of Jajarm urban passages.  MethodologyThe current research is applied in nature, quantitative in terms of descriptive-analytical implementation. In this research, physical indicators include the ratio of the height of buildings to the width of passages, access to open space, access to service centers (fire department, hospital, etc.), quality of passages, population density, residential density, and access to passages. The main city is used. Data analysis was done in the GIS environment using the network analysis (ANP) method. In order to check the status of criteria and indicators in the studied area and the way of valuing their standardization in this place, in the form of information layers, each of the indicators has been transformed into a raster. Their evaluation method is categorized in the range of 1 to 9 in five areas from completely inappropriate to completely appropriate.  ResultsThe results showed that of the area of 438 hectares of the studied area, almost less than 6% of the area of the city has a completely suitable condition. Also, the results of the network analysis showed that the highest level of resilience is in the west and northwest of the region and the lowest in the northeast and southwest.  DiscussionUrban passages, as one of the physical elements of the city, play a key role during the occurrence of urban hazards and also after. The passages network is effective in the way the urban tissue functions and reacts to urban hazards, as well as the physical-spatial structure of the city. In many cases, the spatial distribution of urban elements is designed based on the structure and capacity of the communication network. Paying attention to the passages network as a single element is very important in the city's vulnerability to urban hazards. According to the results, the North-East and South-East regions have the highest vulnerability and the North-West and West regions have the lowest vulnerability. In terms of the area of ​​the area, as shown, out of 438 hectares of the studied area, almost less than 6% of the area of ​​the city has a completely suitable condition. Also, more than 50% of the area is in poor and completely poor condition. This issue shows that the city of Jajarm needs serious attention in the resilience of urban passages against earthquakes.  ConclusionThe quantification of urban resilience helps to better understand it by officials, policy makers and researchers to facilitate and facilitate the achievement of the ultimate goal, which is to preserve life and property and people's livelihood.AcknowledgmentsThis research did not receive any specific grant. From funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

IntroductionA search for a good life has always been part of man's ways and means. Good living is constitutive of good living conditions and thus a life wherein man's physical, mental, and spiritual needs are met and satisfied in a desirable manner. While in the endeavor to live better and create good and quality life humans have created cities and these spaces provide better facilities and opportunities for their citizens, with all the prosperity and comfort it has brought, cities have suddenly thrown new challenges in the face of human life.Quality of life is a method for planning great cities that is fairly recent, probably dating to the 1970s, when considerations regarding the human ecosystem's state drew the research towards this topic. Improving the quality of life in any society is one of the important goals of public policy and is seen as a set of practical strategies to improve policy, practice, and life for individuals and groups of people. Quality of life planning is the end goal of any given development policy and begs evaluation, which is the precondition of all planning. This research aims to assess the quality-of-life status based on 35 indicators addressing quality of life in Ilam city-province capital located in western Iran. Spreading over an area of 1803.3 hectares, the population of 187,809 people as per the national census of Iran in 2016 is identified for Ilam city. Ilam city is situated in a mountain valley, nearly at 1440 meters altitude. Methodology In contrast to humans, AI-based tools are more versed with data interpretation. Fifty-six indicators were divided into four dimensions (Environmental, Physical, Social, Economic) for assessing life quality in the studied area. The survey methodology was employed in data collection. Sample respondents were 380 heads of households living in Ilam city, who were requested to express their perceptions of the 35 questionnaire items using a 5-point scale ranging from very low to very high. Respondents' qualitative grades were assigned numerical scores on a 5 to 1 scale and then entered into SPSS software for analysis. The analysis included an application of responses to the one-sample t-test model. Thereafter, the coordinates of each of the completed questionnaires were recorded under the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinate system, and the data was entered into Arc Map software to form a point layer. The zoning maps for the quality of life were drawn using this layer and using the interpolation tool. This distracts from the statistical calculations and other analytical models carried out on these layers and information.  ResultsPeople in Ilam city generally have an average quality of life. The average of the 35 indicators is a little under the hypothetical mean in t-test statistics, that is, 3. Out of 4, 3 dimensions were in a "moderate" situation, whereas the situation is "unfavorable" for the indicators of the economic dimension. Among the 4 dimensions, the score of the indicators which are set as environmental dimension is higher than those for the other dimensions alone and it is 3.18. The lowest score is also belonging to the indicators that are set in economic dimension as well (2.48). The scores for the two sets of dimensions, i.e., physical and social dimensions, stands at 3.17 and 2.96, respectively.  Among all 35 indicators, 4 have a desirable status, 8 indicators got an undesirable status, and 22 indicators have an average status. The zoning map shows that the quality of life is in better situation in the northwestern parts of Ilam city. On contrary, a somewhat lower quality of life is observed in the eastern fringes. The western suburbs of the city are also demonstrating a relatively better situation. After NW, the western fringes have recorded the second-highest quality of life in the city.    Moran's index value (+0.600) suggests a random distribution pattern of the data revealing some spatial clustering between them. Moreover, given the elevated Z score (14.72) and the smaller P-Value (0.00), one can also conclude that there exists a correlation between the data. ConclusionIn the areas of quality of life in Ilam, where higher indicators were observed, such aspects are partly dependent on the natural state of the environment. While the main areas of weakness in quality of life relate to indicators involving urban infrastructure and services, the economy, and means of livelihood, the enhancement of Ilam's quality of life is therefore correlated to the investment in urban infrastructure and services. Change of land use to any activity directly impacting quality of life should consider the relocation, reallocation, and transfer of some uses, such as the prison, out of the inner city. Also, to maximize the regeneration and renewal of the eroded fabric of the city and informal settlements, an easing of regulations to provide urban management support is required.

IntroductionThis fast pace of urbanization in Iran brings various challenges into the housing sector. High infant mortality and the growing urban population have become important issues in urban planning. Housing quality is, in fact, an economic and structural indicator that can also be considered a social factor affecting the welfare of citizens. Different studies show that housing quality is unfairly distributed in urban areas, with lower-income and vulnerable groups often being found in substandard housing. The city of Bijar is no exception; thus, an examination of the housing quality there may suggest how to improve housing conditions and mitigate spatial inequity.  MethodologyThis study is applied and uses a descriptive-analytical approach with an aim to assess the quality of housing in Bijar city. Required data were retrieved from the Bijar statistical blocks for two census periods during 2006 and 2016 respectively. In the analysis of housing indicators, factor analysis was applied. Economic, physical, and social indicators from many statistical sources were analyzed with the help of ArcGIS, Excel, and SPSS software. This study looked into housing qualities using 17 indicators among three major dimensions such as economic, physical, and social. The indicators were subsequently classified into four major factors after performing factor analysis.  ResultsHence, the factor analysis entails that four main factors bring forth 71% of variance in housing quality, and these factors are indeed:Physical aspects of housing: Residential floor area per household, average housing unit size, and high-quality housingEconomic aspects of housing: ownership, renting, sustainable housingUrban density aspects: building density, residential density, population densitySocial aspects: number of persons occupying per housing unit, household size. Housing quality zoning results from 2016 indicate that substandard residential areas, which occupy 19% of the city's area and house 31.3% of its population, fall within the central and southwestern areas of Bijar. High-quality residential areas, which cover 50.3% of the area and account for 30.3% of the population, are mostly found in the northwestern, northeastern, and western parts of the city. One of the findings in this study is the changes that occurred in housing conditions in Bijar from 2006-2016. Results revealed that the average size of housing units decreased from 106 square meters in 2006 to 96 square meters in 2016, as well as a decrease in the proportion of housing units smaller than 100 square meters, which was 61% for 2006 but reduced to 46% in 2016. The results of the analysis of different housing size growth rates from 2006 to 2016 indicated that the highest growth was found, respectively, in the categories—301–500 m², 151–200 m², and 51–75 m². This also demonstrates that a relatively lower proportion of smaller units is found for lower-income classes and a higher percentage of larger units will tend to grow for those of medium to upper occupancies. It thus indicates the unbalanced development of different economic groups in Bijar.  DiscussionSpatial analysis of housing quality shows that low-quality housing areas are primarily in the central to southwestern parts of the city, including neighborhoods like Qaleh Bala and Farahi. These areas have adverse indicators like high density, low building area, and high rental rates. Areas of average housing quality are more scattered with parts of the city center and surrounding neighborhoods. These areas have an average homeownership rate and average residential building areas. High-quality housing areas are mostly located in northwestern, northeastern, and western areas of the city, like Takht-e Sofla, Halvai, Bolvar, Mahdieh, Karmandan, and Badamestan. These areas present positive indicators such as high per capita building area, durable housing, and high ownership. The following are factors for housing quality in the Bijar city:Economic Factors: The financial capacity of a household to purchase or rent a unit greatly affects housing quality. The fall in purchasing power has generated an increase in rents and a decrease in per capita residential building area. Social Factors: The family size and the number of residents living together are among the most important social factors that affect housing quality. The reduction of family size and increase in population have also changed the urban lifestyle of living in smaller homes.Physical and Infrastructure Factors: The uneven development of urban infrastructure and housing has created sharp contrasts among different areas. For example, the northern areas of the city have higher-quality housing and more building area, while the central and southern areas, which are denser, have poor-quality housing.  ConclusionConclusions arrived at in the study indicated that housing quality actually varies significantly in Bijar. Some of the main trends were the reduction in average housing area, the rise in rental rates, and the small housing units during 2006-2016. On the other hand, the best housing quality exists in the northwestern, northeastern, and western parts of the city, while the central as well as southwestern areas have worse housing. This reality on space inequities necessitates complete planning policies for the urban environment in order to improve accessibility and better housing. This study has directed light on important issues for policymakers and urban planning in attempts to reduce housing disparities and improve living conditions for lower income groups and sustainable urban development in Bijar.

IntroductionToday, a new literature under the title of biophilic planning and design has become popular among urban planners. In this type of planning, the belief in the use and preservation of nature and the natural elements of the diversity of plant and animal species together at the scale of the region, city, neighborhood and The building is the biophysical design at a glance recognizing the innate human need to communicate with nature along with the sustainability of global design strategies to create environments that can really increase the quality of the environment and an innovative approach that emphasizes the importance of maintaining and improving the quality. The environment emphasizes (biophysical urban design as a creative process, plans the future projects of physical structural engineering of the city of Herat, in fact, sometimes creating an urban design project requires an optimistic view that regards the urban environment and the future The current situation is better to imagine, biophilic urban planning is not just a trend and planning, but a philosophy of urban planning theories based on biological theory, which supports psychological and health research data in the city in addition to urban aesthetics. In this way, urban planning and urban planning are creatively combined No, urban design is green.  MethodologyThe method of collecting information in this research is library and field, and the required information was obtained by using a survey and using a questionnaire. The statistical population of the present study consists of the residents of the historical context of Ardabil city, which was selected using Cochran's formula, and the questionnaires were randomly distributed and completed in the neighborhoods. The validity of the research questionnaires was confirmed by the urban planning professors, and Cronbach's alpha method was used to measure the reliability of the questionnaires. SPSS software and parametric statistical tests were used for data analysis. ResultsThe regression coefficient of improving the quality of the urban environment is equal to 0.696. Therefore, according to the respondents, 54.9% of the dispersion of indicators for improving the quality of the urban environment in Shiraz is influenced by bioflake components. In addition to this, the results of the analysis of variance related to the main indicators in the regression statistics in the table below also indicate the significance of the total of the investigated indicators. In this research, the significance level is equal to Sig=0.001 and less than 0.5. It should be added that the regression model used in this research is significant and the relationships between the variables examined in the research are confirmed. In order to determine the role and position of each of the biophilic indicators on improving the quality of the urban environment, the following table is set based on the previous variables. The results of the regression coefficients show the intensity of the influence of each biophilic component on improving the quality of the urban environment of Shiraz. Meanwhile, the index of biophilic infrastructure and conditions with a beta value of 0.623 is the strongest predictor and effective in improving the quality of the urban environment. Sub-indexes such as proximity to parks and green spaces, shapes and images used in architecture and the visual beauty of urban walls and facades, as well as the presence of water in many urban spaces of Shiraz as the most effective sub-indexes of the main index below The structures and conditions are biophilic. That is, it is expected that the relationships between the variables will be confirmed.  DiscussionIn order to investigate the relationship between the fixed and independent variables of the research, multivariate regression analysis has been used. The results of the regression equation between the quality indicators of the urban environment of Shiraz city and the biophilic influencing indicators show the following relationship. The above equation shows that for an increase of one unit in the total biophilic index (A) by 1.35, there will be positive changes in the urban environment quality index, and also by an increase of one unit in the index of biophilic institutions and government by 2. 28% will increase in the improvement of the quality index of the urban environment, and with the increase of one index unit in infrastructures and biophilic conditions, the improvement of the quality of the urban environment will be increased by 25%.  ConclusionThe present study was compiled with the aim of investigating the feasibility of urban environment quality with an emphasis on biophilic criteria in the historical context of Ardabil city. The effect of the five biophilic factors on the realization of the quality of the urban environment was investigated on functional, content and governance indicators. As the final equation shows, each unit of increase in each of the biophilic criteria leads to a 17.3% increase in the improvement of the quality of the urban environment of Shiraz. Also, for one-unit increase in the criteria of biophilic institutions and government, the infrastructure and the conditions of biophilic and economic and financial status of biophilic are 27.1%, 22.6%, 17.8% and 15.2% respectively in the quality of the urban environment of the studied area of quality improvement. Therefore, this equation confirms the effect of biophilic indicators in order to improve the quality of the urban environment in the studied area. These results are consistent with the researches of Raso Sirila and colleagues (2017), Kafi Chi and Gogorio (2020), Padre Sen (2018), and Helen Sal's studies (2016). . The results of the regression coefficients show the intensity of the influence of each biophilic component on improving the quality of the urban environment of Shiraz. Meanwhile, the index of infrastructures and biophilic conditions with a beta value of 0.623 is the most powerful and effective predictor of improving the quality of the urban environment. (2019), the studies of Ziari et al. (2018), the studies of Stra P and Lipa (2018) are aligned.

IntroductionTourism is known as one of the most important economic sectors in major countries of the world. According to the report of the World Travel and Tourism Council (2020), in 2018, the travel and tourism sector grew by 3.9 percent, outpacing the global economy (3.2 percent) for the eighth consecutive year. Over the past 5 years, one in five jobs have been created by the sector, making travel and tourism the best partner for governments to create jobs. Therefore, tourism, as one of the largest economic sectors in the world, supports one out of every 10 jobs (319 million) worldwide and accounts for 10.4% of the global GDP. Tourism policy is a product of a very complex process and is related to various aspects. The complexity of tourism is caused by significant changes at the local, national and international levels. In the context of this important change, the tourism policy environment has become a strategic medium for governments to market their tourism potential.  MethodologyThis research is applied in terms of its purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of the nature and method of carrying out the work, which was carried out by two methods of library study and field survey. In the descriptive study section, the library method has the main application because the theoretical foundations of research and research on the subject of research can only be done by reviewing existing and documented studies and researches. It is also possible to know and be aware of the current situation of the studied area by describing what is there. After collecting enough information through the library study, the next step of the research was started with the questionnaire tool. In this section, after designing the questionnaire required for data collection, it was distributed among the local people and the required information was collected. This section includes the main foundation of the research. Everything obtained in the first step was used to analyze the data obtained from the questionnaire. The statistical population of the research consists of the citizens of Poldakhtar city, which according to the census of 2015, the population of these three villages was 26352 people. To select the sample size, Cochran's formula was used, by which 379 people were selected as the sample size in a simple random manner. In order to collect information and research data, a researcher-made questionnaire was used. The face validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by the professors and experts after numerous checks and fixing its defects, and its reliability was calculated by Cronbach's alpha of 0.84. In order to measure good urban governance, indicators of participation, effectiveness and efficiency, transparency, accountability, consensus building, justice and legality have been used, and for sustainable urban tourism, economic, social and environmental indicators have been used. One-sample t-test and multivariate regression test were used to analyze the results.  ResultsThe obtained findings have been analyzed in two ways, descriptive and inferential. First, the descriptive findings were examined and then the inferential findings were examined. Based on the results obtained from the descriptive findings, 63% of the respondents were men and 37% were women. In terms of marital status, 56% of respondents are married and 44% are single. In terms of age, the highest frequency is assigned to the age group of 31 to 40 years with 37% of the frequency. In terms of employment, the highest percentage is assigned to the free job group with 34%. Also, in terms of the amount of income, the most frequency belongs to the income group of 4 to 6 million Tomans per month with 24%.4. DiscussionToday's cities face many problems and dilemmas, which can only be solved through principled and specialized management in the form of good urban governance. The investigations carried out in this study showed that good urban governance in the city of Poldakhtar has been evaluated in a favorable and suitable condition and the citizens are relatively satisfied in this regard. Therefore, it can be expected that good governance will solve many problems in the city of Poldakhtar. One of the topics that has received a lot of attention in recent years in cities is urban tourism and tourism sustainability. By providing suitable facilities and services to tourists and appropriate advertisements, city managers seek to make maximum use of these capacities for the benefit of their cities by attracting domestic and foreign tourists, especially cities that have high tourism potential.  ConclusionThe results of the research in line with the investigation of the sustainable tourism situation in Poldakhtar city showed that tourism has led to a favorable assessment of the economic, social and environmental situation; In a way that the surveys conducted indicate that citizens believe that tourism has increased the income of citizens and has caused employment and reduced unemployment of people and has increased the income of citizens. Also, it has followed the social welfare of the citizens, which has caused the citizens to participate in more educational and cultural activities. It has also increased the security of the citizens and increased the citizens' sense of belonging to their city and improved the quality of life of the citizens. In terms of the environment, tourism has caused the increase and expansion of the urban green space and has led to the beauty of the city.In examining the effects of good urban governance on sustainable tourism, the results of the research showed that all indicators of good urban governance had a positive and significant impact on sustainable tourism in Poldakhter city, and the participation index had the greatest impact, which shows that it is important that when governance It is good that urban management will be successful if it seeks the participation of citizens in plans and projects related to urban tourism; Because the citizens, with sufficient knowledge of their city, are more familiar with the existing flaws and shortcomings, and in this regard, they can make accurate and principled decisions and provide detailed advice to the officials. Also, legality index, justice index, accountability index, effectiveness and efficiency index, transparency index and consensus building index are also in the next ranks of the most influential indicators of good urban governance on sustainable tourism.

IntroductionAlthough social aspects may not be more important than physical and infrastructural components in crisis management, they are equally significant. In places where crime, homelessness, unemployment, poor nutrition, and inadequate education are prevalent, the emphasis on resilience and disaster prevention cannot be sufficiently emphasized. Thus, the concept of resilience has evolved from an initial ecological meaning to a socio-ecological concept and subsequently to a social one. The city of Zanjan experienced two earthquakes in 2004 and 2005, the most severe of which measured 6 on the Richter scale in 2005, causing significant damage to residential homes. Therefore, this study aims to address the following question: Which aspect of social resilience is effective in empowering citizens against natural and environmental hazards? Methodology This research is applied in terms of its objective and descriptive-analytical in nature. To collect the necessary information, two methods were used: library research and field study. The library research method involved an environmental scanning approach to review theoretical foundations and literature and gather existing dimensions and indicators related to social resilience and empowerment against natural and environmental hazards in the city of Zanjan. The field study method employed the Delphi technique and various questionnaires to complete the required information. The statistical population of this research consisted of 35 experts, university professors, specialists, and practitioners in the fields of crisis management, urban planning, and urban development. A purposive sampling method was used to select individuals. The data analysis was conducted using Micmac software. ResultsThis research examines the social resilience of Zanjan against natural and environmental hazards by identifying and analyzing 87 influential factors. These factors are categorized into five groups: 1. Influential Variables: These have the highest impact, including employment status, economic living standards, and awareness of crisis management.2. Dual Variables: These variables have high influence and susceptibility, such as health insurance coverage and the effectiveness of officials’ actions.3 Independent Variables: These variables have low influence and susceptibility, such as health status and education level.4. Susceptible Variables: These variables have low influence but high susceptibility, such as access to medical centers and adherence to health guidelines.5. Regulatory Variables: These are near the center of gravity on the chart and can be elevated to other categories, such as reducing unemployment and addressing common community issues. This analysis helps improve planning and social resilience. DiscussionThe initial factors influencing the social resilience of the city of Zanjan against environmental and natural hazards were extracted using the environmental scanning technique and the Delphi method. By reviewing the questionnaires received from experts, a total of 87 factors across 14 different domains were identified as primary variables. These variables were then placed into a cross-impact matrix to assess their influence on each other and on future trends by the experts. Subsequently, these data were entered into the Micmac software for analysis.From the analysis conducted with Micmac, 20 key drivers were identified from the initial 87 factors as the main influencers of the future social resilience of Zanjan against environmental and natural hazards. These key drivers, identified as the primary actors and contributors in planning for Zanjan's social resilience, received the highest scores in the graph of direct and indirect impacts.  ConclusionNatural and environmental disasters pose significant challenges to sustainable human societies. Understanding ways to reduce vulnerability and appropriate disaster management planning is of special importance in national policymaking. Social resilience, particularly by maintaining and strengthening the cultural, social, and economic dimensions of a community, is closely linked.The city of Zanjan faces various natural hazards, so it is essential to examine the factors that influence its social resilience. Research in this area has identified 87 primary factors using environmental scanning and Delphi techniques, ultimately pinpointing 20 key influential factors on Zanjan’s social resilience. These factors include public awareness and education, access to emergency services, economic status, government support, and community institutions, all of which play crucial roles in enhancing the city's resilience against natural disasters.AcknowledgmentsUrban Resilience, Hazards, Social Factors; Futures Studies, Zanjan City.

IntroductionHistorical markets are usually places where the city's identity is well visible. These markets not only have a unique architectural texture, but also contain an important historical and cultural heritage. In these markets, people's connection with the space is formed through collective memories, social interactions and everyday use of the space. This link ultimately leads to attachment to the place, which has a positive effect on the social and cultural sustainability of these places. Meanwhile, Tabriz market is one of the largest and oldest indoor markets in the world, which plays an important role in the formation of urban identity and place attachment of Tabriz people and even visitors. Historical markets such as Tabriz market, with their unique features such as native architecture, diverse social and economic functions, and rich cultural and commercial history, provide various grounds for creating place attachment. These places are not only important as commercial centers, but also as cultural and historical symbols, they play a significant role in preserving the urban identity. By providing a space for daily social interactions, markets have found an important place in urban life and thus help strengthen people's connection with place. As one of the historical cities of Iran, Tabriz has a special place in the history and culture of the country with one of the largest indoor markets in the world. Tabriz market with its magnificent architecture, variety of products, and the presence of different generations of traders, is not only a commercial center, but also a space for social and cultural interactions. However, in recent decades, urban developments, economic changes and modernization of urban spaces have created threats to people's place attachment to this historical market. The main issue is how to maintain and strengthen the attachment to the place in the historical market of Tabriz in a situation where modern developments and urban developments have affected the traditional atmosphere of this place. Due to the functional, physical and even social changes that this market is facing, there is a need to carefully examine the factors affecting attachment to a place and provide solutions to strengthen this emotional and cultural bond.  MethodologyThis research was descriptive-analytical with a quantitative approach. The main tool of data collection is library documents and a questionnaire, which is designed to investigate various factors influencing the attachment to the place in the historical market of Tabriz. The statistical population of this research includes businesses and visitors. Cochran's formula with unlimited formula was used to determine the sample size. Considering that the statistical population includes a large number of businesses and visitors, the sample size is calculated based on the probability of 95% and the error of 5%. The required sample size is about 250 people. Sampling is done by simple random method to select a diverse mix of respondents. Each question is measured using a five-point Likert scale (from 1 = completely disagree to 5 = completely agree) to determine the level of influence of each factor on place attachment. After data collection, analysis was done using statistical software such as SPSS or Amos. Analyzes by structural equation modeling with second-order confirmatory factor analysis to verify the structure of the questionnaire and the validity of the classification of physical, environmental, socio-cultural and identity-historical factors and by Pearson correlation analysis: to investigate the relationship between different factors (physical, environmental, social - cultural, and identity-historical) and the degree of attachment to the place. From multiple regression: To identify the multiple effects of different factors on place attachment and to determine the effect of each factor for the validity and reliability of the research tool, content validity and Cronbach's alpha test were used for reliability ResultsAmong the main research factors, identity-historical factors, with a factor loading of 88/0, especially cultural and architectural value (factor loading of 91/0), have the greatest effect on attachment to a place in the historical market of Tabriz city. And physical factors with a factor loading of 71/0 have the least effect on people's attachment to the historical market of Tabriz city. Finally, this analysis shows that the historical market of Tabriz, as an urban space rich in terms of historical and cultural values ​​and daily social interactions, is one of the most important factors that has increased people's attachment to this place. The results of regression analysis show that all factors (physical, environmental, social-cultural, and identity-historical) have a significant effect on place attachment, but identity-historical factors have the greatest effect with a beta coefficient of 39/0, followed by social factors. - Culture with a beta coefficient of 34/0, environmental factors with a beta coefficient of 31/0 and physical factors with a coefficient of 24/0 are in the next ranks.  DiscussionAccording to the results of the analysis, identity and historical factors play an important role in strengthening the attachment to the place in the historical market of Tabriz. This shows that the market, as an identity and historical symbol, forms an essential part of people's urban and national identity. Also, social and cultural factors are effective in strengthening this emotional bond due to social and daily interactions that take place in the market.  ConclusionFrom the point of view of urban planning, in order to strengthen the attachment to the place, more importance should be given to preserving the historical and cultural identity of the market and encouraging social interactions in its public spaces. Also, improving environmental conditions such as natural lighting and proper ventilation can improve the experience of being in the market and strengthen people's sense of belonging to the environment. By applying these principles in urban planning, it is possible to transform the historical market of Tabriz into a lasting and sustainable space for future generations, where people depend on it not only economically but also culturally and socially.AcknowledgmentsThis research did not receive any specific grant. From funding agenciesin the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

IntroductionOne of the most fundamental and threatening hazards is earthquakes. The risk of earthquakes is one of the most significant dangers that constantly threaten cities. Therefore, understanding the current state of resilience plays a vital role in reducing urban vulnerability and enhancing citizens' ability to cope with the risks posed by natural disasters. This is because earthquakes occur suddenly and can have widespread impacts across a region, even affecting national issues. The most critical factors leading to a crisis during an earthquake are the physical vulnerabilities of the city. Among these, Mashhad in Razavi Khorasan is one of the major and important cities in Iran, located in a very high-risk zone. Its proximity to 55 active and seismic faults, along with a population of over 3, 057, 679, and the presence of vast human, cultural, and religious assets, have positioned Mashhad as a highly significant city in terms of seismic risk. The Razavi Khorasan region, structurally, lies within the tectonic zones of Kopet Dag, Binalud, and Sabzevar (subzones of Central Iran). In all three zones, there are highly active and dynamic faults. Movements along these faults can lead to severe earthquakes with substantial damage. Additionally, for the religious metropolis of Mashhad, with its large population and vast area, factors such as unprincipled excavations, lack of attention to building safety, the presence of deteriorated structures in most parts of the city, poor-quality construction materials, inadequate design and construction of buildings and vital infrastructure relative to potential seismic intensity, lack of operational plans and capabilities for disaster management during response and recovery phases, and numerous vulnerable and deteriorated areas have made resilience, particularly in terms of physical aspects, a critical issue. Over the past two decades, various multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have been developed to assess urban resilience against earthquake risks. Therefore, research on the physical resilience of urban spaces in Mashhad against earthquakes using these methods and approaches is essential. The results can be used in formulating laws and regulations related to natural disaster management, vulnerability reduction, risk mitigation policies, and enhancing resilience, as well as in decision-making, planning, and policy-making by officials in Mashhad regarding natural disaster management.   MethodologyThis research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of method. Data collection is done through library studies (documents) and statistical information collection which includes documents, observation and documentation. The information required in this research is collected through library method. Most of the information related to the indicators of this research was obtained by referring to the Statistics and Information Analysis Department of the Human Capital Development and Planning Deputy of Mashhad Municipality, using the Mashhad City Statistics in 2023. The statistical population of the present study is experts and elites of Mashhad city,20 people were selected through a purposeful method. Arc GIS software, Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, and Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) method were used to analyze the data  ResultsThe final output of Mashhad city's vulnerability to earthquakes shows that 1147 hectares (3. 55%) are in a completely unsuitable condition and only 2155 hectares (6. 66%) are in a completely suitable condition. According to the results, among the seventeen districts of Mashhad city, districts 7 and 9 have the highest level of vulnerability.   DiscussionIn this study, indicators such as the ratio of building height to street width, access to open spaces, access to service centers (fire stations, etc. ), population density, distance from healthcare facilities, distance from faults, distance from gas stations and fuel depots, building age, location in dead-end alleys, type of facade materials, and access to main city roads were examined. These indicators are determining factors that reflect the level of vulnerability in different urban areas. By using this set of factors and defining their boundaries, vulnerable areas of the city were identified. The results showed that 1, 147 hectares (3. 55%) are in a completely unsuitable condition, 7, 964 hectares (24. 64%) are in an unsuitable condition, 15, 254 hectares (47. 21%) are in a moderate condition, 5, 789 hectares (17. 91%) are in a suitable condition, and only 2, 155 hectares (6. 66%) are in a completely suitable condition. According to the results, among the seventeen districts of Mashhad, districts 7 and 9 have the highest vulnerability, while districts 4 and 16 have the lowest vulnerability.   ConclusionThe overall results indicate that Mashhad, like many other cities, is located on several active faults, making it a sensitive and high-risk area for earthquake hazards. Sooner or later, the city will face such a challenge. Therefore, reducing damage, managing crises, and ultimately enhancing the resilience of cities against hazards such as earthquakes is essential and necessary.  AcknowledgmentsThis research did not receive any specific grant. From funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

IntroductionIn recent years, due to the increasing occurrence of natural hazards, the concept of resilience has gained significant attention. Resilience refers to the capacity of a system to absorb disturbances and reorganize during change while retaining its essential functions, structure, identity, and feedback mechanisms. Resilience should accurately predict a community's ability to recover after adversities. Living in hazard-prone environments does not necessarily mean vulnerability and damage; rather, the lack of resilience and the population's insufficient understanding of the type and extent of hazards are the main causes of damage. Recent studies indicate that the resilience of rural communities to natural hazards is very low. Given the persistent crises and increasing damages caused by them in rural areas, the concept of rural resilience has become a global consensus for achieving sustainable rural development. This issue becomes even more critical when considering that rural settlements, due to their unique characteristics such as limited open spaces, low technological levels, lack of access to resistant materials, non-compliance with safety principles in construction, substandard infrastructure, inappropriate location, and limited access to facilities and services, as well as low levels of education and skills regarding natural hazards, are more vulnerable to damage. Since the vulnerability of rural communities is one of the main obstacles to their development, especially in areas constantly exposed to hazards, resilience can serve as a facilitating approach to achieving development and improving the living conditions of residents (Anabestani et al., 2017: 20). Therefore, in rural areas, local management, as the closest level of governance to rural residents, plays a crucial role in reducing damages caused by crises. This study aims to address part of the research gap in this field. The study population includes 23 villages in the vicinity of Tabriz city, with a total population of 54,722. In these villages, natural hazards have caused significant concerns for rural communities. Additionally, poor planning for the establishment of rural settlements has led to increased damages during disasters. The seismic conditions and high potential for environmental hazards such as floods and droughts make the study of the current situation inevitable. The main objective of this research is to strategically analyze the four dimensions of resilience (economic, social, institutional, and physical-organizational) in rural settlements using the Meta-SWOT technique.  MethodologyThis research is applied in terms of purpose and descriptive-analytical in terms of methodology. Data were collected through both documentary and field methods. The sample size was estimated at 21 individuals using purposive sampling. The required variables for the study were selected through the review of credible scientific sources and field studies in the target area. The four dimensions of rural settlement resilience (economic, social, institutional, and physical-organizational) were evaluated using a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using Meta-SWOT software. The reliability of the questionnaire was calculated at 0.867, and its validity was confirmed by experts and academic elites. The study population includes 23 villages in the vicinity of Tabriz city, with a total population of 54,722.  ResultsThe results showed that among the factors influencing the resilience of rural settlements in the vicinity of Tabriz, access to and use of temporary shelters, the ability to return to pre-disaster employment levels, the vulnerability of assets and properties after disasters, community participation in aiding victims, collective cooperation to reduce disaster-related damages, and the role of media in raising awareness had the highest strategic fit. The village of Mayan Sofla, with a score of 19, demonstrated the best performance, while the village of Khajeh Dizaj, with a score of 1, showed the weakest performance in terms of economic and social dimensions.  DiscussionThe results indicate that to enhance the resilience of rural settlements, it is essential to consider economic stagnation and plan policies that create the necessary conditions for resilience. Additionally, the participation of all villagers in reducing vulnerability to natural hazards (such as floods and earthquakes) should be prioritized by authorities. Other effective strategies include raising public awareness of disaster response methods, the role of media in increasing awareness, membership in organizations such as the Red Crescent and Basij, access to medical centers after disasters, and community participation in aiding disaster victims  ConclusionThe strategic planning analysis of resilience in rural settlements in the vicinity of Tabriz requires the examination of several key components, including social, economic, institutional, and physical dimensions. This analysis aims to identify challenges, opportunities, and strategies that can enhance the resilience of these settlements to natural and human-induced hazards.  AcknowledgmentsThis research did not receive any specific grant. From funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

1.IntroductionUrban smartification, or smart city formulation, means advanced communication and information technologies such as specific technologies directed towards improving citizens' living conditions and the efficient management of urban resources. This idea entails the Internet of Things, smart systems such as intelligent parking systems, smart roads, smart waste management, etc. This can enhance life quality for the citizens, decrease costs for cities, and produce a cleaner environment. Khorramabad, an intermediate city for the country and the twenty-thirds populous city, possesses specific tourism and historical potential. Nonetheless, due to several factors related to increasing urban population, less-than-optimal public participation, underutilization of NGOs in city projects, poor integrated management, problems with motor traffic, growth of residential areas surrounding the city, environmental concerns within the city, and unsustainable sources of municipal revenues, the city faces multiple challenges in all areas. The city is at the initial stage of developing smart city infrastructures. Establishing ICT (smart infrastructure and service) will be central to the transition and the realization of a smart city in Khorramabad, followed by an emphasis on social dimension (human and social capital participation) and integrated urban management based on modern public service considerations (both micro-ways of municipalities and macro-concern policymaking). Given these, the smart city should be implemented in the cities of the country, with particular emphasis on Khorramabad. Accordingly, the study at hand aims at pinpointing the driving forces for urban smartification in Khorramabad. 2.MethodologyThis research is considered applied, and the descriptive-analytical method has been used. The statistical population under study comprises 30 people expert in the smart city domain which contains urban managers, members of smart city committee of Khorramabad, and university professors in (urban planning and urban designing). The factors facilitating the realization of smart urbanization were extracted through documentary sources (articles, books, etc.) and expert opinions. Required data were collected through the application of a researcher designed questionnaire and its analysis carried out using fuzzy DEMATEL model. There are four zeros within the scoring of final intensities of relationships determined by experts. Based on these scores, each expert is to specify the effect of criterion i on criterion j. Pairwise comparisons between criteria (i.e. aij) are made on an integer scale using from 0, 1, 2, 3, to 4, where 0 is indicated "none," 1 "little," 2 "medium," 3 "high," and 4 "very-high."  Results Analysis by fuzzy DEMATEL showed that smart city indicators can enhance resilience capacity of urban settlements in Khorramabad. Management and organization as an indicator was found to be the most crucial for resilience of settlements in Khorramabad, with an influence score of 0.147, being termed most powerful among all identified factors. Whereas another prominent smart city indicator that further avails modern technologies contribute a lot to building resilience in urban settlements of Khorramabad with a final score of 0.0590 and Di-Ri this has also been one of those factors honored as influential. The third smart city indicator influencing the urban settlements of Khorramabad is citizen participation, identified as an impactful factor based on the fuzzy DEMATEL results, with a positive score of 0.0303. Among other factors which improve urban resilience in Khorramabad, physical resilience would be one of those directly associated with and sensitive to the influential factors, being identified as the most impacted indicator with a negative score of -0.0974 in fuzzy DEMATEL analysis. Identification as impacted factor before smart city development in different areas has also a score of -0.0078, which indicates lesser level of impact compared to other affected indicators. 3.Discussion Needs of citizens are changing continuously, as urban areas transform rapidly with technological advancement, social change, economic development, and environmental transformation. Conventional management methods are insufficient to address urban management needs anymore. Sustainable, smart, and knowledge-oriented cities are some of the approaches that have emerged to tackle such urban problems through interdisciplinary collaboration and use of advanced technologies. These approaches derive their origins from the quality of life, citizen participation and environmental protection.Resistance to change in structures and processes of urban management will bar the desired impact of these initiatives on urban management. Moving away from traditionalism toward smart, flexible, and participatory systems is critical. Urban problems tend to be extremely complex and multilayered, calling for cross-sector partnerships and the use of different sources of knowledge and skills to provide broad and effective answer.  5.ConclusionThe indicators demonstrating high Di+Ri values gain recognition for their position as key and driving ones. These indicators, directly affecting all other factors, can become pivotal in enhancing the resilience of Khorramabad. Smart transportation networks and active citizen participation among others, can therefore have very high importance as indicators. These indicators may improve recovery capacities for the city under crisis situations through sustainable physical infrastructure and interaction among citizens. Meanwhile, a few dependent factors with negative (Di-Ri) values have been named as impacted elements. Other indicators, such as the development of smart cities across various domains, collaboration with the private sector, smart urban growth, a smart culture, smart communication, and physical resilience, have all these factors identified as dependent and impacted.

IntroductionNatural hazards are natural processes or phenomena that constitute a threat to human life, property, livelihoods, and services, which might trigger a disaster (Kavoosi & et al., 2018). Among these threats that are most hazardous, most damaging, and, when occurring at great scales, least forgiving in terms of resulting in human casualties and financial losses are earthquakes. Earthquakes that strike urban areas bring devastation to a nation's urban development efforts and pose widespread damages across various levels. Thus, reconstruction and rehabilitation stand out as very important methods in mitigating urban earthquake vulnerability.Studies show that cities in the Gilan Province harbor the highest levels of human resources, investments, economies, and infrastructures. However, excessive centralization; unprincipled placement of risky land uses, such as fossil fuel stations, airports et cetera; collapse of access standards (suitability of structures and pathways); prevalence of quite a number of bridges (underpasses, river-crossing bridges); neglect of river boundaries and climatic elements (prevailing winds, precipitation in construction); and the lack of balanced and standardized access distances regarding the distribution of emergency and rescue centers such as hospitals, fire stations, etc., impose major security threats and vulnerabilities on its cities.city of Talesh is no exception to these problems. Located in the western region of Gilan, Talesh occupies 25% of the Gilan area, being surrounded on three sides by the Talesh Mountains (which form part of the Alborz range) and on another side by the Caspian Sea. Traditionally, since its inception, this city has suffered from natural disasters, floods and earthquakes chiefly among them. Lying next to a fault line, the city is susceptible to earthquakes. Hence, the researcher will address the various factors that affect the urban fabric's vulnerability reduction to earthquakes in the case of Talesh while focusing on reconstruction and renovation strategies. The above provides an insight into the central question the authors want to address:What is the causal, contextual, and intervening factors influencing the reduction of urban fabric vulnerability in Talesh to earthquakes with an emphasis on reconstruction and renovation? And which hold the greatest significance?  MethodologyThis study is applied in nature, with an interpretive and analytical essence. It combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. Information analysis is performed using the grounded theory method and the FARAS model. The statistical population includes experts and specialists in the study field. The sample community was collected through purposive sampling, resulting in 30 participants.  ResultsBased on the findings, the causal factors for a decrease in physical vulnerability in the city of Talesh against earthquakes are decentralized urban development planning, increased institutional and physical resilience, and integrated management across different organizations. Contextual factors include building a database for Talesh, increasing awareness toward earthquake vulnerability in the physical environment, technical facilities, promoting dialogue and knowledge sharing for vulnerability reduction, and taking reconstruction and refurbishment into account for urban fabric security against earthquakes. Intervention factors identified included documentation and performance evaluation of organizations for physical vulnerability reduction, drafting regulations and overall strategies among relevant organizations, and forming specialized committees. The FARAS fuzzy model results indicate that integrated organizational management (weight: 0.420), dialogue and knowledge exchange (weight: 0.430), and drafting unified regulations (weight: 0.426) are given the highest importance for decreasing Talesh vulnerability to earthquakes. DiscussionIntegrated management across organizations emerged as the key causes for reduction of earthquake vulnerability for Talesh. There are numerous decision-making centers that create strong obstacles on the path of earthquake vulnerability reduction in Talesh which further emphasizes the necessity of decreasing the number of these centers. In context, effective factors are exchange and ideas, whereas specialists mention benefits in the shared knowledge of executive managers between organizations like the governor's office and municipalities. This collaboration could become a major strength in reducing physical vulnerability. Finally, it's more important than any other impact factor to formulate general legislation on renovation and reconstruction of urban fabrics.  ConclusionIdentifying causal, contextual, and intervening factors enables recognition of Talesh city's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats concerning earthquake risks. Implementing the necessary strategies can minimize financial and physical damages to the city. AcknowledgmentsThis article is derived from the doctoral dissertation of Mr. Dariush Mohammadi-Outari, which was defended at the Ardabil Branch of the Islamic Azad University.