Analysis of Social Capital of Local Stakeholders to Natural Resource Co-Management (Study Area: Khash County)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Velayat, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran.

2 Department of Natural Engineering, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Planning and Sustainable Development, University of Saravan, Sistan and Baluchestan, Iran.

10.22059/jnrg.2026.413245.1103

Abstract

Given the challenges arising from the excessive exploitation of natural resources and the need for sustainable management, this study examines the status of social capital in the villages of Khash County, Sistan and Baluchestan Province, focusing on two dimensions: trust and social participation. This research is applied and descriptive-analytical in nature, with the statistical population consisting of households in four villages—Islamabad, Ismailabad, Botgan, and Bilari Pashtakuh in Khash County—from which 56 individuals were selected based on Morgan's table. The social network analysis method was employed to identify key actors and evaluate their relationships. Initially, data necessary for social network analysis were collected through questionnaires and direct interviews with local stakeholders and were analyzed using Ucinet6 software. Subsequently, social capital was examined based on trust and participation links using quantitative-mathematical indicators at the micro level of the network. The findings identified key actors in each village based on trust and partnership bonds. These actors have the highest level of power and influence, which is influential in the participatory management process. This research emphasizes the necessity of enhancing social capital through increased trust and participation among local stakeholders. In particular, shifting towards a participatory management approach can contribute to improving the status of natural resources and achieving sustainable rural development. Ultimately, this study's innovation lies in examining the dimensions of social capital (participation and trust) in rural areas of Khash County, which has been less addressed so far.

Keywords

References

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Natural Resources Governance
Volume 3, Issue 2
June 2026
Pages 121-141

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