Redesigning Institutional Arrangements for Combating Corruption in the Process of Decentralization: A Focus on Islamic City Councils in Iran

Author

Office of Political Studies, Islamic Parliament Research Center, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

This study seeks to identify and articulate effective strategies for combating corruption within the decentralization process and to develop an institutional framework for establishing transparent, accountable, and efficient Islamic city councils. In Iran, Islamic city councils serve as the principal interface between citizens and the governance framework, playing a pivotal role in fostering political trust, reinforcing institutional legitimacy, and enhancing the quality of public services.
The research is of an applied nature and utilizes a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory methodology. Data were gathered through library research and documentary methodologies,supplemented by thematic analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 purposively selected participants, including former members of Islamic city councils and subject-matter experts, in accordance with the principle of theoretical saturation.
Findings indicate that without coherent and well-integrated institutional structures, the risk of corruption at the local level may surpass the anticipated benefits of decentralization, thus jeopardizing its intended purpose of fostering democratic governance and administrative effectiveness. Achieving efficient and corruption-resistant Islamic councils necessitates a fundamental revision of the legislation governing the organization, responsibilities, and elections of Islamic councils in Iran, as well as the procedures for selecting mayors and village administrators. These reforms must be founded upon the development of comprehensive institutional frameworks that incorporate essential principles such as effective supervision, transparency, accountability, civic engagement, ongoing education, institutional responsibility, and the rule of law. Aligning these principles with national anti-corruption policies can mitigate institutional fragmentation and the proliferation of corrupt practices across governance levels, thereby strengthening structural coherence and integrity within local administration.

Keywords

References

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The Journal of Community Development (Rural-Urban)
Volume 17, Issue 2 - Serial Number 33
Autumn and winter 2025
January 2025
Pages 301-321

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