Integrated coastal zone management with a good governance approach (Kish Island case example)

Good governance encompasses the very broad concept that is the product of the participation of the three institutions of government, civil society, and the private sector, all of which are essential for sustainable human development. On the other hand, integrated coastal zone management with a sustainable development approach seeks to preserve the environment while at the same time promoting economic development so that the natural environment and coastal residents can benefit from it. Therefore, the application of integrated coastal zone management with a good governance approach can result in the participation of three government agencies, civil society and the private sector in protecting the environment and economic development of coastal areas and simultaneously benefiting coastal residents and natural environments. Kish is considered as a case study of this study due to geographical features and ecological potentials and urban context of the study area, among other islands of the Persian Gulf. The purpose of this study was to develop good governance indicators and criteria, evaluate good governance in integrated management of Kish, and provide strategies to promote integrated management of coastal areas with good governance approach. To accomplish these goals, firstly, by explaining the subject literature and reviewing the research background, an integrated coastal zone management model with a good governance approach was presented. The main criteria in this model are participation, legislation, accountability, accountability, central justice, transparency, efficiency and effectiveness, and community-centricity, each of which includes sub-criteria. Then, by using questionnaire and interviewing residents and experts, as well as by applying hierarchical analysis method, good governance status in integrated management of Kish was assessed. The final score of Kish by calculations was 2.53 (out of 5), indicating a relatively inadequate situation of good governance in Kish integrated management. Finally, solutions were presented to promote good governance in the integrated management of