After COVID-19: How Iranian Urban Planning NGOs Adapt to New Challenges and Opportunities

Document Type : Articles from PhD & Master Dissertations

Authors

1 PhD Candidate of Design and Urban Planning, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

2 Associate Professor at the Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Tarbiat Modares University, Iran

Abstract

 
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted traditional patterns, creating significant transformations in urban planning and design fields. This research investigates the impact of this crisis on Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) involved in urban planning in Iran. The primary focus of this study is on the prominent role of these entities in interacting with and adapting to emerging management models and the changes brought about by the post-COVID era. The research was conducted through in-depth and detailed interviews with representatives from 17 active NGOs in urban planning, following which data were evaluated and interpreted using qualitative content analysis. The interview coding results have been categorized into three main themes: the influential contexts affecting activities during the COVID era, responses to the pandemic, and post-COVID strategies. The strategies adopted by these NGOs to address their activities and structural challenges during the pandemic have been meticulously examined. Taking into account factors influencing the performance of NGOs in Iran, which include urban management with low resilience, the presence of citizens who participate less in civic activities, and the existence of suitable platforms for virtual activities, the NGOs have embraced three strategies in response to COVID-19 challenges: temporary cessation, adaptability to circumstances, and complete transformations. Furthermore, emphasizing these organizations' susceptibility to the crisis conditions, they have adopted differing long-term effects ranging from acceptance to resistance. This research sets the groundwork for more detailed and profound investigations into identifying the best strategies and approaches for NGOs to better confront unforeseen crises. Knowledge and experiences gained from the pandemic can act as valuable assets for more effective future responses to similar challenges.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Urban Structure and Function Studies
Volume 11, Issue 40
2024
Pages 7-29

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History

  • Receive Date: 30 December 2023
  • Revise Date: 07 February 2024
  • Accept Date: 01 May 2024

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