Pathology of Implementing Active Labor Market Policies in Iran

World Bank studies indicate that to enhance the quality and quantity of employment, it is necessary to design a clear framework for labor market policy-making, with active labor market policies being one of the main pillars of this framework. Evaluating the performance of these policies in many countries shows that for better implementation, it is essential to first identify target groups and recognize the challenges they face. Additionally, attention to cost-effectiveness, continuity and sequence of programs, interchangeability between programs, flexibility, implementation in times of economic crisis, collaboration and dialogue among social groups (labor unions and the private sector), and the establishment of technical and financial infrastructures are key influential factors. An analysis of the implementation of active labor market policies in Iran also reveals that not only are these policies not prioritized in government action plans, but also in the years when these policies have received mention, the lack of technical and financial infrastructures, absence of supporting documents and scientific evidence, disregard for collective participation and the input of all stakeholders, and lack of flexibility in planning have significantly hindered their effectiveness.