Strategies for the Development of Sport Diplomacy in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

In its 20-year vision, the Islamic Republic of Iran aims to progress in areas of development and create a constructive relationship with the world. As time has passed, sport has emerged as a new global actor in diplomacy. Therefore, for the present study we have collected data by employing the qualitative approach and carrying out semi-structured and non-structured interviews with experts in the fields of Strategic Sports Management, International Relations, and Sociology. Interviews continued until theoretical saturation was obtained (n = 39) and were analyzed using the Qualitative Content Analysis Method.The findings of this study suggest that in order to make progress in the field of sport diplomacy, Iran faces three types of strategic challenges, these are: 1. intellectual,2. behavioral, and 3. structural. Moreover, it needs to focus on macro strategies for branding and accreditation, interaction with the world, and empowerment capacities.