Iranian Journal of Public Policy

Iranian Journal of Public Policy

An Examining of The Strengths and Weaknesses of Iran's Security Policy making in Central Asia and The South Caucasus (2009-2024)

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Amirroham Shojaie 1
reza simbar 2
Seyed Amir Niakooe 2
1 Ph.d. Student of International Relations, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
2 Professor of Political Science, Faculty of Literature and Humanities, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
10.22059/jppolicy.2026.413308.2880
Abstract
This article examines the strengths and weaknesses of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s security policy making toward Central Asia and the South Caucasus during the period 2009–2024.The central research question seeks to identify the main strategic orientations that have shaped Iran’s security policymaking in these regions.The findings suggest that regionalism, security cooperation with Russia, balanced diplomacy, border management, and the handling of regional crises constitute the principal strengths of Iran’s approach.At the same time, several significant weaknesses are identified, including the absence of a comprehensive security perspective, the lack of an integrated regional security strategy, the adverse influence of ideological considerations, institutional and discursive fragmentation, a predominantly reactive posture, and the underutilization of cultural capacities. Employing a qualitative research design, the study draws on documentary sources and expert interviews.The collected data were analyzed through thematic analysis within an analytical–explanatory framework.The findings contribute to a more systematic understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Iran’s security policymaking in its northern strategic environment.
Keywords
Security Policy Making
Iran
Central Asia
South Caucasus
National Security
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Iranian Journal of Public Policy
Volume 12, Issue 3
Autumn 2026
Pages 196-211