Strategic Studies Quarterly

Abstract This research aims to review and evaluate the form and content of papers published in “Strategic Studies Quarterly”. The study employs a qualitative, content analysis-based methodology and a descriptive-analytical approach to assess the contents. The research population consists of 178 papers published between issue 75 (Spring 2017) and issue 98 (January 2023). To objectively and qualitatively assess the contents, the review was conducted systematically using eleven parameters. The results reveal that the papers can be classified into three general categories related to Iran’s security: 65 papers pertain to internal security, 38 to external security, and 39 to both internal and external security. The evaluation of participant numbers was favorable, with 131 researchers contributing to the writing of 142 papers. Among scientific institutions, Tehran University had the highest contribution with 32 papers. An examination of research methods revealed that the descriptive-analytical method was the most popular among researchers. In terms of the level of analysis, the national level accounted for the largest share of papers at 47.18%.

Abstract Securitizing theory is one of the most widely used and controversial contemporary security theories that has been used by researchers to explain various security phenomena and actions. This article seeks to apply and implement this theory in the field of neglected and less used internal security by examining a case study of securitizing social networks in the Islamic Republic of Iran based on the library-documentary research method. While acknowledging that securitizing internal issues are more difficult than external issues, the author believes that issues such as the multiplicity of decision-making actors and ambiguity in the competence of security-building actors, poor framing and proper depiction of threats, neglection or lack of attention to social context, audience diversity, inadequate policy-making and Desecuritizing are the most important factors that has challenged securitizing of social networks in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Abstract

In the aftermath of 11 September,Afghanistanwas the first country ruled by Taliban and as theharborofAl-Qaidawhich was attacked by the coalition of western countries led by theUSA. Consequently, the NATO got the command inAfghanistan.  Given the trend and composition of deployment as well as distribution of the NATO troops inAfghanistan, the paper studies the challenges of these troops in the country. These challenges can be considered in three categories, structural, domestic and regional. However, at the structural level, the main theme of the conflict of views between the state parties relies on their different views on functions of the troops, legal interpretations and lack of coordination among them.