Stakeholder Analysis in Climate Change Health Adaptation in Iran: Social Network Analysis Publisher



A Mousavi AREFEH ; A Ardalan ALI ; A Takian AMIRHOSSEIN ; Ay Ostadtaghizadeh Abbas Y ; N Soltani Halvaiee NEDA ; K Naddafi KAZEM ; Ar Massah Bavani Ali REZA
Source: Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering Published:2025

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the roles and responsibilities of stakeholders in decision-making, research, policy-making, and the implementation of an adaptation plan, with a comprehensive view of their positions, influence, and power. Methods: This descriptive-analytical research was conducted using a social network analysis approach. The opinions of 25 university professors, experts, and executives were gathered through a questionnaire utilizing a Likert scale, selected via purposive and snowball sampling. Data analysis and graph design were performed using Microsoft Excel and Gephi software (version 0.9.2). Stakeholder interaction patterns were identified using the Force Atlas 2 algorithm and graph theory concepts. Results: The network comprised 37 nodes, 3 clusters, and 63 edges. It closely resembled a complete graph, with a density of 0.971. Within the network of stakeholders, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change emerged as the most active participant, exhibiting relatively strong external interactions with other stakeholders. In contrast, the Department of Environmental Protection and the Ministry of Health and Medical Education showed relatively weak and very weak external interactions, respectively. Conclusion: Given the conflicting interests between industrial sectors and the health sector, it appears that the Ministry of Health and Medical Education should enhance its power and influence over other stakeholders. Additionally, involving representatives from the health sector in policy reviews and stakeholder consultations may help bridge the gap between health and other sectors regarding climate change issues. Clinical trial number: Not applicable. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.