Presenting a Conceptual Model of the Resilience of Social-Ecological Systems of Qashqai Tribe

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Reclamation of Arid and Mountainous Regions, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.

2 Department of Natural Resources Policy, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran.

Abstract

The resilience of the socio-ecological systems of the Qashqai tribe in Abadeh helps to maintain the stability and flexibility of these communities against environmental and social changes. The present study investigates the resilience of the socioecological systems of the Qashqai tribe in Abadeh city, using qualitative and theoretical methods. Foundation data provides a conceptual model to better understand this resilience. This research was conducted by in-depth interviews with experts using the snowball method, and data saturation was reached after 15 interviews. The research results show that the causal factors are the provision of needed resources through social participation and solidarity, services and supports, and natural resource management. Environmental or contextual factors also include infrastructure and resources, adaptation, cooperation and awareness raising, emergency laws and regulations, and health management and environmental protection. Intervening factors also include vulnerability and social changes, economic changes and resources, environmental changes and natural disasters, policy and resource management, and migration and displacement. Effective strategies to increase resilience include market support and development, community empowerment and solidarity, natural disaster management training, resource planning and management, sustainable and comprehensive development, and control and monitoring. Finally, the consequences of these strategies include resilience and adaptability, sustainability and resource management, and improving the quality of life. These results show that the resilience of socio-ecological systems depends on their ability to face climate and social changes. Also, effective strategies for the sustainable management of natural resources and improving the quality of life of nomadic communities have been identified.

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