Mashayekhi, Azadeh; Dianati, Vafa; (2023) Land politics in Iran; from redistributive justice to entrepreneurial urbanism. In: Proceedings, Middle East Urbanism Beyond Conflict: Current Research, Ongoing Debates, and Next Directions. Columbia Graduate School of Architecture Planning and Preservation: New York, NY, USA.

Preview

Text Land Politics in Iran.pdf - Accepted Version Download (380kB) | Preview

Abstract

This paper examines the evolving role of charitable, religious organisations in Iran's development, focusing on their involvement in urban land politics. Initially driven by the main premise of the Revolution, social justice and support of poor and vulnerable , these foundations, often termed "revolutionary," utilised confiscated land to support low-income families. However, they have transitioned towards "pious neoliberalism" and entrepreneurial urbanism in the decades since the 1979 Revolution. Leveraging control over confiscated land, close ties to the government, and extra-judiciary power, they have amassed significant political and economic power. This shift is evident in their increasing engagement in land speculation, value capture activities, and alliances with municipalities to secure favourable development rights, often converting land initially designated for social purposes into commercial ventures. The paper highlights the complex interplay of Islamist, left, and neoliberal tendencies in shaping the foundations' actions. While promoting Islamic principles of social justice initially, they adapted to and exploited neoliberal economic policies, blurring the lines between public and private sectors. This raises concerns about accountability, transparency, and the potential for prioritising narrow interests over broader social good, calling for greater scrutiny of their practices.

Download activity - last month

Export as JSONXMLCSV

Download activity - last 12 months

Export as JSONCSVXML

Downloads by country - last 12 months

Export as JSONXMLCSV

Archive Staff Only

View Item