The Future of Internationalization of Iranian Metropolises Based on the Competitiveness of Local Governments in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Despite the relative advantages, Iran's metropolises have significant vulnerabilities in the process of internationalization that are due to the absence of a strategic approach and potential direction in the field of urban management and, at the same time, the disregard for the role of local governments in enhancing the competitiveness of these cities. Although the existence of metropolises in the international arena depends on the economic and institutional structure on the one hand and the geopolitical situation on the other, however, the main factors of success depend primarily on the form, the degree of independence and power, and the competitiveness of local government. The goal of this study is to establish the appropriate strategies for the internationalization of Iran's metropolises. This research utilized applied type and case-field research method with a mixed approach. In the content analysis phase, 217 basic themes, 62 interpretive themes (organizers), and 4 central themes were identified. Then the strengths and weaknesses of local governance of Iranian metropolises in administrative, economic, and geopolitical spheres; and strategies of local governments to boost their competitive performance and develop geopolitical influence at the international level were presented. The research findings indicate that the weaknesses of local governments outweigh their strengths.  At the same time, the dominance of environmental opportunities over the challenges in this area. Thus, to a certain degree, taking advantage of the available potentials could reduce the shortcomings of the local governments.