Understanding Informal Economic in Saqez and Baneh Border Areas: an Interpretive Study of Outcomes and Challenges

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Assistant professor, Department of Social Science,Payame Noor University (PNU),Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Department of Social Science, Payame Noor University (PNU), Tehran, Iran

3 Master of Psychology and lecturer at Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The aim of this research is to interpret the consequences of informal economic from the perspective of the actors involved in this phenomenon. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, observation and document review. Through purposeful sampling method 55 key informants (including Kolbers wholesalers, retailers and drivers) were interviewed to achieve theoretical saturation. The collected data were coded and analyzed in the form of 6 main categories: normativity of abnormality, deep dependency, and relative security, metamorphosis of traditional and indigenous culture, risky space and diffusion of disorder. The results indicate that informal economic is a phenomenon or social reality that reflects the limitations of official employment resources, inefficiency of the institution of economy, centralized development policy, and the perception of boundary as a threat rather than an opportunity. Regardless of economic interpretations, this phenomenon has socio-cultural dimensions formed out of diverse perceptions and lived experiences and the meaning of its consequences has actually been the expansion of “inharmonious development and the crisis-ridden life structure”. In other words, although the expansion of the informal economy my lead to economic benefits and bring relative satisfaction to economic actors, The dispersion of social, cultural, security and environmental consequences and challenges creates an anomic atmosphere and a crisis-ridden life structure in the border regions.  
 

Keywords

References

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Quarterly Journal of Social Development (Previously Human Development)
Volume 17, Issue 4 - Serial Number 68
Vol. 17, No. 4, Summer 2023
September 2023
Pages 161-200

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