Islamic Politics Research

Islamic Politics Research

Analyzing the Role of the Islamic Revolution in the Evolution of Economic Development Policies with the Resistance Economy Model

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
1 PhD student, Department of Political Science, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of Political Science, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran (Corresponding Author)
3 Professor, Department of Political Science, Qom Branch, Islamic Azad University, Qom, Iran.
10.22034/ipr.2026.567427.2344
Abstract
The Islamic Revolution marked a pivotal turn in Iran's economic development trajectory, shifting the paradigm from a model reliant on Western capitalism toward an indigenous and resilient national framework. This qualitative research employs a descriptive-analytical method and a historical-interpretive approach to investigate the role of the Islamic Revolution in transforming Iran's economic development policies. It focuses specifically on the resilient economy model as an endogenous and adaptive alternative. The theoretical framework is grounded in historical institutionalism, as advanced by Douglass North, combined with the contemporary concept of economic resilience.

Findings reveal that in the pre-revolutionary era, oil-dependent institutions perpetuated a path of structural underdevelopment. In contrast, the Islamic Revolution, through profound institutional change, significantly enhanced the nation's economic resilience and adaptive capacity. The resilient economy model, operationalized through components such as fostering knowledge-based industries, promoting popular participation in the economy, and pursuing active economic diplomacy, has strengthened Iran's ability to withstand external shocks like sanctions while contributing to sustainable, albeit uneven, growth. Despite persistent challenges, including incomplete policy implementation and vulnerability to revenue fluctuations, this model has facilitated a measure of sustainable transformation.

In conclusion, the study asserts that the effective execution of the resilient economy strategy—through continued institutional reform, the strengthening of endogenous capacities, and a heightened focus on strategic economic diplomacy—is essential for realizing sustainable and inclusive development in Iran.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 03 June 2026

  • Receive Date 20 December 2025
  • Revise Date 03 June 2026
  • Accept Date 16 May 2026