Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
PhD Candidate in Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
2
Professor of Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
3
Associate Professor of Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
4
Associate Professor of Political Science and International Relations, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
10.22034/ntsmj.2026.2056357.1191
Abstract
Introduction: The purpose of this research is to analyze the dilemma of sport development and to model the policymaking trajectories for sport in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Utilizing the metaphor of a dilemma, this study examines and explains the different approaches to sport policymaking.
Methods: Conducted as a descriptive-analytical integrative review, this research reviewed 150 scientific documents sourced from library resources, official documents, and established scientific studies. The documents were retrieved from databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Elsevier, Semantic Scholar, SAGE, Irandoc, Noormags, Magiran, Civilica, and Elmnet.
Results: Sport development typically follows two main pathways: a performance-oriented approach, characterized by a centralized structure and top-down policymaking that focuses on international achievements and high-performance sport; and a community-based approach, which is organized through bottom-up policymaking and aims to foster mass participation and increase levels of physical activity. These approaches are not merely theoretical and have been implemented in leading countries through various practical models.
Conclusion: Within the Islamic-Iranian framework of governance, sports policy-making in the Islamic Republic of Iran must emphasize balanced development, distributive and social justice, the promotion of public health, and international success. This approach is also reinforced by the principles of good governance. Therefore, the equitable integration of success-oriented and community-based sport can lead to the balanced development of the sports sector. Achieving this objective necessitates aligning Iran's justice-oriented sports development policies with key institutions in health and education.
Keywords
New Approaches in Sports Mmanagement