The Structural and Functional Dynamics of the Public Diplomacy of the Iranian Foreign Policy

The present research investigates the structural and functional dynamics of the public diplomacy of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s foreign policy. The hypothesis suggests that Iran’s public diplomacy institutions, particularly those directed at the "export of revolution," play a pivotal role in inspiring and shaping the country’s public diplomacy efforts. To elucidate this hypothesis, the research draws upon John Millson’s framework concerning soft power, identity, and public diplomacy. Methodologically, the research employs data analysis, content analysis, and examination of the behavioral model of each public diplomacy institution within Iran’s foreign policy. The study concludes that following the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), Iran’s public diplomacy encountered international pressures and strategic constraints. Notably, Iran’s public diplomacy efforts manifested through interactions with various actors aimed at achieving equilibrium amidst counteractions. The attainment of any agreement necessitates a balance of power and expectations, prompting Iran to pursue public diplomacy through "second-path mechanisms" in collaboration with other influential actors. Addressing crises and managing security and economic challenges constitute significant aspects of Iran’s public diplomacy behavioral patterns. Transparency-building and trust-making are identified as crucial initial steps, shaping the roadmap of public diplomacy to foster cooperative relations among stakeholders in resolving forthcoming challenges. Furthermore, the effectiveness of Iran’s public diplomacy within its foreign policy framework hinges upon domestic solidarity and the implementation of a relatively coherent roadmap to promote cooperation among diverse actors. In the post-JCPOA era, Iran’s public diplomacy strategy emphasized multilateral actions to mitigate economic threats arising from the reinstatement of post-JCPOA sanctions, thereby influencing the country’s political and economic landscape.