Abstract
This article provides a comparative analysis of the policies directed toward female-headed households during three political eras of modern Iran: the Qajar Dynasty, the Pahlavi period, and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The primary question investigates the approaches and public policies adopted by these governments to support this vulnerable group. The findings highlight significant differences in welfare policies, shaped by the political and social contexts of each era. During the Qajar period, the lack of a modern state resulted in the absence of defined welfare policies, leaving vulnerable groups without official support. In the Pahlavi era, the emergence of a nation-state introduced social security policies, but female-headed households were not specifically recognized as a separate group. In contrast, the Islamic Republic, influenced by revolutionary demands and the rise of empowerment discourses, implemented more comprehensive support policies for this group. The study employs a historical-descriptive-analytical method and relies on extensive library research. The originality of the research lies in its examination of these policies within the broader sociopolitical demands of each era, particularly focusing on the role of the state in institutionalizing welfare policies.
Keywords: Female-Headed Households, Social Welfare, Social Policy, Qajar Dynasty, Modern Iran.
 
 
Introduction
Female-headed households constitute one of the most vulnerable social groups requiring specialized support from governments. This demographic includes widows, divorcees, abandoned wives, and women responsible for their families' economic and social well-being. While the challenges faced by these women have existed across all societies and periods, the advent of modern citizenship rights, the development of welfare states, and increasing societal demands for gender equity have brought their plight into sharper focus.
This article examines the evolution of policies supporting female-headed households during three distinct political periods in Iran: the Qajar Dynasty, the Pahlavi era, and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The primary question addresses how these policies were shaped in each era, reflecting the sociopolitical conditions and dominant discourses of the time.
 
Materials & Methods
This study employs a historical-descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing extensive library research to analyze welfare policies across the three eras. By integrating historical records, legislative documents, and social theories, the study provides a comprehensive analysis of the sociopolitical factors influencing the development of these policies.
 
Discussion & Result
1. The Qajar Period: Absence of Modern Welfare Policies
During the Qajar era, the absence of a modern state and citizenship rights meant that no institutionalized welfare policies existed for vulnerable groups, including female-headed households. Support for these women was primarily left to informal networks or charitable acts, often tied to religious institutions or community leaders.
- Economic Hardship: Many women resorted to begging, labor-intensive jobs, or even selling their children to survive. Historical records reveal cases where women appealed to local rulers or religious figures for aid, but responses were sporadic and unorganized.
- Systemic Neglect: The lack of a centralized government with responsibility for citizens' welfare perpetuated the marginalization of vulnerable groups.
 
2. The Pahlavi Era: The Birth of Social Welfare Policies
The- Pahlavi era marked the emergence of a nation-state and the institutionalization of welfare policies. Social security systems began to take shape, particularly under Reza Shah, who established the foundations for modern social policies.
- Limited Recognition: While social security programs provided some support for vulnerable groups, female-headed households were not recognized as a distinct category. Policies primarily targeted the male breadwinner, with benefits extending to their families only indirectly.
- Charitable Organizations: Private and royal foundations, such as the Pahlavi Foundation, supplemented government efforts. However, these initiatives were often criticized for their lack of transparency and effectiveness.
3. The Islamic Republic: Comprehensive Support and Empowerment
The Islamic Revolution of 1979 introduced a new approach to social policies, emphasizing the support and empowerment of vulnerable groups as part of its revolutionary ethos.
- Legal Foundations: The Constitution of the Islamic Republic explicitly recognizes the rights of female-headed households in Article 21 and emphasizes social security for all citizens in Article 29.
- Empowerment Policies: Over time, the government shifted from direct financial support to empowerment strategies, including vocational training, educational opportunities, and small-business loans.
- Multidimensional Support: The Islamic Republic's policies address not only the economic needs of female-headed households but also their social, psychological, and cultural challenges. The establishment of multiple supportive institutions, such as the Imam Khomeini Relief Foundation and the Welfare Organization, reflects this multidimensional approach.
 
Discussion
The study identifies significant differences in the treatment of female-headed households across the three eras, rooted in the evolution of state structures and societal demands.
- Role of the State: The Qajar era's lack of a modern state left vulnerable groups unsupported. The Pahlavi state introduced welfare policies but failed to specifically address the needs of female-headed households. The Islamic Republic's policies reflect a more comprehensive understanding of the issue, influenced by both revolutionary ideals and global discourses on gender equity.
- Policy Evolution: The transition from ad-hoc charity to institutionalized welfare and eventually to empowerment-focused policies highlights the increasing sophistication of social policy in Iran.
- Challenges and Limitations: Despite advancements, significant gaps remain, including the inefficiency of some programs and the persistence of economic and cultural barriers.
 
Conclusion and Implications
The study concludes that the evolution of policies for female-headed households in Iran reflects broader changes in state structure and societal values. While the Qajar era neglected these women due to the absence of a modern state, the Pahlavi era laid the groundwork for social policies, albeit without specific recognition of female-headed households. The Islamic Republic has made significant strides, integrating these women into its broader welfare and empowerment agenda.
 
Implications for Future Research and Policy
- Research: Comparative studies could analyze how similar policies have evolved in other countries, providing insights for improving Iran's approach.
- Policy Recommendations: Emphasizing the integration of economic, social, and cultural dimensions in empowerment programs can enhance their effectiveness. Additionally, streamlining institutional responsibilities could address inefficiencies in policy implementation.