The Deputy Minister of Interior and Head of the Social Affairs Organization announced that, according to survey findings, approximately 60% of the public have no hope for an improvement in future conditions an issue he warned could impact the level of social cohesion and solidarity.
During a press conference, Seyyed Mohammad Bathaei referenced the 2026 Social Capital Report, stating that it will be published in a format that allows experts to analyze data categorized by social groups, such as youth, rural residents, and other demographics.
Emphasizing the importance of social capital across three levels - macro, meso, and micro - he explained that the macro level pertains to public trust in the governance system, the meso level relates to trust in service-providing institutions, and the micro level concerns social relationships and bonds among individuals and groups.
Bathaei stated that strengthening social capital is one of the primary missions of the organization, aimed at creating a platform for social dialogue, increasing public participation, and ensuring that the voice of society is heard.
He also emphasized that although the country's problems are serious, restoring public trust and strengthening the connection between the people and governance structures is no less important than economic issues and must be pursued earnestly.
