Barriers and interventions for promoting physical activity and sport among Afghan immigrants in Iran: a qualitative study

Physical activity and sport (PAAS) contribute significantly to physical, mental, social and overall well-being. Immigrants, however, participate less in PAAS. This study explore barriers to PAAS engagement among Afghan immigrants in Qom, Iran, and co-developed feasible interventions using a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach. A qualitative study was conducted within an interpretivist paradigm. Semi-structured interviews were held with 18 Afghan immigrants and four officials from relevant organizations, selected through purposeful sampling to ensure variation in gender, education, health status and socioeconomic background. The socio‑ecological model guided the analysis, and data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s method, with trustworthiness established through credibility, transferability, dependability and confirmability. A subsequent focus group discussion with community members assessed the feasibility and prioritization of interventions. Three domains of barriers emerged: individual (basic life needs, financial barriers, lack of time and motivation), social and cultural (insufficient family support, gender inequality, social fear and prejudice), and structural and environmental (limited access to sports environments and identity problem). Interventions included individual-level strategies (rising awareness, planning for PAAS) and organizational-level initiatives implemented through immigrant community-based organizations and governmental bodies. In conclusion, addressing the barriers and enhancing PAAS participation requires multi-sectoral collaboration, policy reforms and culturally tailored interventions.