Providing a Model for Citizen Participation in Cultural Policymaking (Case Study: Islamic Propagation Organization)

Abstract

The primary objective of this research is to present a model for citizen participation in cultural policymaking. The research method is exploratory and qualitative. In the qualitative section, thematic analysis is employed. The study population consists of experts from the Islamic Propagation Organization. After conducting 13 semi-structured interviews with experts and scholars in the field of policymaking within the Islamic Propagation Organization, the researcher reached theoretical saturation. The quantitative section of the study involves 40 managers and experts in the field of policymaking within the organization. The sampling method for the quantitative section is simple random sampling, with a sample size of 36 individuals determined using the Morgan table. Data collection in the quantitative section was conducted via questionnaires. The research findings indicate that the model comprises six dimensions: the context for civilization-building, the reproduction of a participatory civilization culture, social drivers, effective policymaking, outcome assessment, and overcoming barriers. Results from the t-test demonstrate that the dimensions and components of the research are in a favorable and highly suitable condition. The results of the Friedman test regarding the prioritization of dimensions show that the dimensions of the research have close mean ranks, indicating equal priority. However, regarding the components of the research, improving executive mechanisms of participation ranks first, addressing structural barriers to participation ranks second, and decentralized planning and policymaking rank third. Based on the research findings, to realize civilization-building managers, employing educated individuals, particularly experienced professionals, in leadership roles in policymaking is of great importance. Additionally, the multi-faceted skills of senior policymakers can play a significant role in this context. Furthermore, capacity-building and selecting appropriate managers can lead to the realization of jihadist, civilization-building managers.