HIV/AIDS policy-making in Iran: A stakeholder analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Policy Analysis
• Social Science Research

Background:

• The study addresses the critical need to understand stakeholder involvement in HIV/AIDS control in Iran.
• Identifies key actors and their participation levels in the national HIV/AIDS response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and analyze the diverse stakeholders involved in HIV/AIDS policy and control in Iran.
• To assess the participation and influence of various governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative stakeholder analysis was conducted nationwide in 2018.
• Purposive and snowball sampling methods were employed, with data analyzed using framework analysis.
• MAXQDA and Policy Maker software were utilized for data analysis.

Main Results:

• 44 stakeholders were identified: 23 active and 21 inactive.
• The Ministry of Health (MoH) is the lead stewardship body but lacks sufficient authority.
• Participation levels varied, with some entities showing moderate to low engagement in HIV/AIDS policymaking.

Conclusions:

• HIV/AIDS policymaking in Iran is fragmented, despite numerous stakeholders.
• An integrated system is lacking to effectively involve all relevant parties in HIV/AIDS control efforts.
• An overarching coordinating entity is recommended to enhance stakeholder mobilization and management for HIV/AIDS control.