Exploring policy processes against microbial threats in Iran: a qualitative policy analysis

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Policy Analysis
• Infectious Disease Management

Background:

• Microbial threats represent a significant and escalating global challenge.
• Effective policy frameworks are crucial for mitigating the impact of infectious diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze Iran's policy process in response to microbial threats.
• To identify strengths and weaknesses in the national strategy against infectious diseases.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing thematic content analysis of interviews with 16 key informants.
• Utilized a stages heuristic framework and MAXQDA software for data analysis.

Main Results:

• Identified key themes in agenda-setting, policy formulation, implementation, and monitoring & evaluation (M&E).
• Highlighted issues including underprioritization of infectious diseases, governance challenges, policy coherence gaps, health system capacity limitations, and M&E inefficiencies.
• Revealed significant barriers such as fragmented governance, inadequate data access, and insufficient stakeholder engagement.

Conclusions:

• Iran must prioritize infectious diseases, enhance preventive measures, and strengthen governance and health system capacity.
• Improving policy coherence, risk management, and M&E systems is essential for effectively combating microbial threats.
• Learning from international best practices can inform the development of more robust strategies for national and global public health security.