Assessing the Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Rural Sustainable Development (Case Study: Zehak County)

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

• Zahra Naroei ¹
• Hamid Heidary Mokarrar ²
• Sadegh Asghari Lafmejani ¹
• Mostafa Istgaldi ¹

¹ University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran.

² University of Zabol,. Zabol, Iran.

10.22067/jrrp.2025.95155.1147

Abstract

Purpose: Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play a significant role in the process of sustainable development and the social vitality of communities. These organizations focus on strengthening the economic and social capacities of marginalized groups, addressing general public issues, and sometimes tackling the challenges of specific social strata. In the age of globalization, sustainable development of a society depends on resolving its environmental, economic, and social problems.
Methodology: This study adopts a descriptive-analytical approach and was conducted in the villages and among the households of Zahak County, located in Sistan and Baluchestan Province. Using Cochran's formula and questionnaires, 21 villages were selected as the sample, comprising 358 households. In order to obstacles to the growth and expansion of non-governmental organizations in the rural areas of Zahk county. To further assess the relationship between NGOs and sustainable development, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed. Additionally, the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) was applied to identify the most influential factors contributing to the effectiveness of NGOs. Finally, the Fuzzy TOPSIS method was used to prioritize the villages based on the role of NGOs in sustainable development.
Findings: The results of the research indicate that the impact of NGOs on rural development dimensions has been generally unfavorable, with only the socio-cultural dimension showing a significant effect (Beta coefficient: 0.311), while other dimensions demonstrated negligible influence.
Practical Implications: According to the research findings, investing in and implementing socio-cultural programs can help expand NGOs and improve the current condition of villages in Zahak County towards sustainable development.
Originality/Value: Although previous research has been conducted in various regions of Iran, the distinct characteristics of Zahak County—where this study is focused—limit the applicability of earlier findings. Consequently, new research is necessary to address the specific conditions of this area. Zahak County faces unique challenges, particularly due to the cessation of water flow from the Helmand River by the Afghan government. This disruption has significantly impacted local livelihoods and altered environmental conditions, creating circumstances that warrant dedicated investigation.

Keywords

• Rural areas
• Sustainable rural development
• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
• Zahak County

Main Subjects

• Rural Studies

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