Contentious population policy-making and its consequences: a health policy analysis

Governments strategically shape their population policies to effectively harness and sustain vital human resources, responding to the evolving dynamics of demographic trends and the intricate interplay of economic, social, and political conditions. Nevertheless, they strive to uphold their populations'health and fundamental rights. Iran's population policies have undergone significant shifts over the past four decades, reflecting changing socio-political dynamics and demographic challenges. This study aims to analyze Iran's population policies, emphasizing their implications for health outcomes and the status of human rights, offering important insights for governance in population policy.

We conducted a qualitative study using Walt Gilson's Policy Analysis Triangle framework. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and national policy documents. Thematic analysis was employed to identify themes across policy context, content, process, and actors.

In the realm of population policies that impact the health and rights of individuals, members of parliament and pressure groups wielded the greatest power and influence. The policy-making environment was intricate and turbulent; governance exhibited poor and biased implementation; and, regarding content, an ineffective and inconsistent population policy package existed.

Population policies that overlook ethical principles and do not adequately address social needs or adapt to the evolving dynamics of societies pose a risk to individual health and infringe upon fundamental human rights.