How is food security threatened in Iran's agricultural sector? A grounded theory approach

Food security, one of the fundamental challenges facing developing countries, is influenced by a range of factors, including climate change, economic instability, ineffective policies, and international sanctions. Using a grounded theory approach, this study comprehensively examined the challenges of food security in Iran's agricultural sector by analyzing causal, contextual, and intervening factors, as well as identifying strategies and consequences. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 38 agricultural experts and specialists and analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding. The results indicate that the primary obstacles to achieving sustainable food security in Iran include climate change, water scarcity, dependence on imports, weak infrastructure, economic fluctuations, contradictory policies, and international pressures. The study also proposes strategies such as improving water and soil resource management, developing new agricultural technologies, reducing food waste, strengthening farmer support policies, and increasing resilience to climate change. These insights provide a comprehensive framework for policymakers and practitioners to design evidence-based programs that strengthen national food security and promote sustainable agricultural development.