Developments in human resource management in Iran

Abstract

Abstract This paper identifies and examines a number of features that has influenced the development of HRM in Iran, with particular reference to national factors and organizational strategies. We begin by detailing the Iranian context with reference to the relevant literature, then set out our aims and objectives and outline our methodology. In presenting our findings, we consider perceptions of HRM, the HR challenges organizations face and the implementation of HR practices. In doing so, we compare and contrast responses from managers employed in both public and private sector Iranian organizations, and those working in MNCs. This enables us to specify those factors which appear to influence the differential development of HRM in Iran. Keywords: IranMiddle EastHRMdeveloping countriesbusiness environmentmultinational corporations Notes 1 The geopolitical description of 'Middle East' sometimes includes and sometimes excludes the non-Arab nations of Iran and Turkey. For the sake of accuracy, this paper mainly focuses on the region of Middle East including Iran. Some new literature also refers to this region as 'West Asia'. 2 According to the 2005 BP Annual Review of World Energy Markets, some 65 per cent of the world's known hydrocarbon resources are located in the Middle East. 3 See Iran Khodro, www.irankhodro.com; Iran's leading automotive company and the Industrial Renovation and Development Organization, www.idro.org for more information. 4 The HRM Society was established in October 2004, see website www.hrmsociety.ir