Analysis of Socio-spatial Segregation of Ethnic Groups in the City of Bojnurd, Iran

In recent years, the study of socio-spatial segregation has gained increasing importance within the fields of urban and social sciences, especially with the advent of advanced computational tools that facilitate more precise measurements and analyses. Socio-spatial segregation at the neighborhood level represents one of the most visible and impactful forms of spatial inequality and social injustice within urban settings. By providing tools for effective measurement, researchers and policymakers can better evaluate and analyze the extent and severity of these inequalities, gaining insights into the distribution of resources and opportunities across different social groups.Moreover, tracking the evolution of segregation over time within a specific geographical area allows for a deeper understanding of how urban development, migration patterns, and policy interventions influence the spatial organization of populations. This,in turn, sheds light on the degree to which citizens have equitable access to essential services, such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities, as well as the overall quality of life in different urban neighborhoods.

Theoretical Framework:

The primary goal of this research is to measure the social and spatial segregation of ethnic groups within the neighborhoods of Bojnord and to analyze how these patterns have evolved over time. The central research question that guides this study is: What are the socio-spatial dimensions of residential segregation among ethnic groups in Bojnord, and how are these dimensions changing in response to broader social, economic, and political factors?Since Bojnord's designation as the capital of North Khorasan province in 2003, the city has undergone rapid growth and transformation. Its population has nearly doubled, and its physical area has tripled by 2021, largely due to significant waves of migration from nearby villages, other cities, and even regions beyond the provincial borders. These demographic changes have inevitably led to shifts in the social and spatial organization of the city, raising important questions about the nature and consequences of residential segregation in this context.

The research employs a descriptive and analytical approach, utilizing the latest population statistics, along with data on the ethnic and religious composition of Bojnord's neighborhoods. This data was collected and analyzed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current state of residential segregation in the city. In addition, the study draws on population statistics and compositions from previous census periods, particularly those following Bojnord's designation as the provincial capital, to track changes in segregation patterns over time.To measure the socio-spatial dimensions of residential segregation, the study utilizes the Geo-Segregation Analyzer software, which generates detailed maps to visualize the distribution and concentration of different ethnic and religious groups within the city. These maps provide a clear representation of how various social groups are spatially organized within Bojnord, highlighting areas of significant ethnic clustering and isolation.

The analysis reveals that the distribution of populations, particularly those who have migrated to Bojnord in recent years, is heavily influenced by the city's ethnic and cultural diversity. Among the 26 districts of Bojnord, the highest dissimilarity index was observed between the Turkmen and Tat ethnicities, indicating a pronounced level of segregation between these two groups.Despite the high concentration of Turkmen and Tat populations in certain neighborhoods, the Tat group does not exhibit significant spatial isolation compared to other ethnic groups. However, the clustering of the Turkmen population within Bojnord's neighborhoods increased markedly between 1385 and 1395, coinciding with a substantial influx of Turkmen immigrants during this period. This trend has continued in subsequent years, although at a slower pace, as immigration rates have declined recently.The results of this study offer valuable insights into the extent and intensity of segregation among different social groups, both ethnic and religious, within Bojnord's neighborhoods. Various indicators were employed to measure the dimensions of residential segregation, revealing that much of the population growth in Bojnord over the past two decades has been driven by immigration rather than natural population growth. Immigrant groups, particularly those belonging to specific ethnic and religious communities, have tended to settle in neighborhoods where others of similar backgrounds are already concentrated, further reinforcing the spatial concentration of these groups in specific areas of the city.

The findings of this research indicate that since Bojnord's designation as the capital of North Khorasan province, residential segregation among ethnic groups has intensified, with the Turkmen ethnic group showing the most significant growth in segregation indices. If this trend continues, it may lead to heightened social tensions and conflicts, as the spatial separation of ethnic groups can exacerbate existing inequalities and contribute to social fragmentationGiven Bojnord's status as a provincial capital and its diverse ethnic composition, the social and spatial segregation of ethnic groups within urban neighborhoods poses significant challenges for urban planners and policymakers. Addressing these issues is crucial for improving the quality of life for all residents, ensuring equitable access to housing, support services, and opportunities in key areas such as employment, education, and healthcare. Policymakers must consider strategies to promote greater social integration and cohesion within the city, fostering a more inclusive and just urban environment for all its inhabitants.