Effective Drivers of Hijab and Clothing in the Islamic Republic of Iran: A Futures Studies Approach
Document Type : Scientific-Research Article
Authors
1 PhD Candidate in Futures Studies, Imam Sadiq University, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
2 PhD Candidate in Muslim Social Sciences, Imam Sadiq University, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
3 Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies and Management, Imam Sadiq University, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran. M.noruzi@isu.ac.ir
Abstract
Hijab and clothing are among the most significant identity and cultural components of Islamic Iran. Whether voluntarily or involuntarily, they have become fundamental pillars of social structuring, with Iranian-Islamic identity intrinsically tied to them. The complexity of this issue, along with its theoretical and executive sensitivities, has made it a persistent challenge in policymaking.
This study, employing a futures studies–oriented policymaking approach using the MICMAC method, initially identified 60 driving forces through in-depth interviews, later reduced to 19 after assessments. MICMAC software analyzed reciprocal relationships among these drivers, identifying media and social networks, Western values, and the media representation of law enforcement actions against unveiled individuals as key influential factors shaping the system.
Additionally, variables such as hijab law enforcement and tolerance between supporters and opponents of hijab were categorized as dependent variables. Intermediary variables, including social monitoring and enjoining good and forbidding evil, were identified as bridging factors, playing a crucial role in system dynamics.
Findings indicate systemic instability, with many variables experiencing a dual-state condition. Based on the study, key policy recommendations include strengthening media management, mitigating Western value influences, revising hijab law enforcement mechanisms, enhancing social monitoring, promoting family and educational models, leveraging modern technologies to promote hijab culture, reducing social tensions through tolerance, and encouraging culturally appropriate clothing models.
These findings underscore the need for a multi-dimensional, adaptive policy approach to effectively address hijab’s complexities and its role in shaping Iranian-Islamic identity.
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