Causal and contextual analysis of power transfer process in rural management based on data base theorizing

In recent decades, rural areas have faced significant challenges including a lack of infrastructure, youth labor migration, weak governance, and the inefficiency of traditional development models. In response, the concepts of “modern rural governance” and the “devolution of power” from central governments to local institutions have emerged. However, micro-level dynamics of power transfer in villages have received limited scholarly attention. This study examines the status of such devolution in the villages of Zibarkhan County. Drawing from theoretical foundations and a review of related literature, a framework was developed to identify factors influencing power transfer. Using a grounded theory approach, key concepts were extracted through in-depth interviews with 16 local managers, rural council members, district governors, and rural development experts selected via snowball and theoretical sampling. Findings indicate that cultural beliefs and norms, along with the existing institutional structure—as contextual conditions—play a crucial role in shaping modern rural governance. Successful implementation of this model requires the alignment of cultural, legal, and financial factors with the evolving needs of local governance. Where rural culture supports transparency and inclusive participation, and institutional structures provide adequate legal and budgetary support, the process of transferring power to rural councils and administrations accelerates and becomes more effective. Nonetheless, obstacles such as tribalism, financial and infrastructural deficiencies, limited managerial competencies, and institutional inefficiencies hinder the democratic distribution of power and the emergence of new local actors. Strengthening education and capacity-building for local leaders, enhancing transparency, increasing public participation, and consciously leveraging cultural and social assets can foster community-based governance and enable the democratic transfer of power to previously marginalized individuals and groups within the rural administrative system.