Urban Development Policy Making

Urban Development Policy Making

Strategic Analysis of Water Recycling and Reuse Using the SWOT–QSPM Model within the Framework of Sustainable Governance

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Hamideh Baseri Baghsiyah 1
Omid Afkhami 2
Maryam Afkhami 3
1 Ph.D. Student in Water Governance, School of Governance, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2 Researcher in the field of International Relations and Strategic Management, Tehran, Iran
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Infrastructure Governance, School of Governance, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
10.22034/judpm.2025.559246.1074
Abstract
Increasing water stress resulting from population growth, urban development, and climate change has intensified the need to pay greater attention to water recycling and reuse in Tehran. This study employs SWOT and QSPM models, with a focus on the role of the Tehran Municipality, to analyze the internal and external factors influencing water recycling governance. Data was collected through document analysis and expert interviews. The results indicate that Tehran possesses considerable technical and research capacities; however, weaknesses in integrated governance, limited financial resources, and low social acceptance constitute the main barriers to the development of these policies. The QSPM analysis shows that competitive (ST) strategies are the most attractive; in particular, partnerships with the private sector to enhance treatment plant efficiency and attract international financial resources ranked highest. Moreover, the formulation of national standards for reclaimed water quality and the establishment of economic incentives are considered key supportive strategies. Accordingly, strengthening institutional coordination, developing sustainable financial instruments, and enhancing public awareness can facilitate the transition from a purely technical management approach to sustainable and participatory urban water governance.
Keywords
Water Security
Multi-level Decision-Making
Sustainable Urban Governance
Water Policy
Tehran Municipality

Subjects

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Urban Development Policy Making
Volume 3, Issue 1
Spring 2026
Pages 51-67

  • Receive Date 23 September 2025
  • Revise Date 02 November 2025
  • Accept Date 21 November 2025
  • Publish Date 21 March 2026