A Review of the Political Economy of Space as a New Theory in Urban Design

Document Type : Research

Authors

1 . PhD student of urban planning, faculty of art and architecture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran.

2 Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Urban Planning and Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran

10.22126/ipes.2026.12510.1761

Abstract

The political economy of space is an interdisciplinary field that analyzes the interactions between economic forces, governmental policies, and spatial structures, particularly in the contemporary era, focusing on their reciprocal impacts on spatial distribution and urban development. This approach enables urban designers and planners to evaluate their decisions within a broader context of social, economic, and political relations. In the context of globalization and rapid economic transformations, the political economy of space serves as an analytical tool to provide a more precise understanding of the challenges and opportunities in urban design. This study aims to elucidate the position of this theory in urban design and examine its application in Iranian urban programs, while also addressing the challenges facing the field. The research adopts a qualitative approach with a review–analytical methodology based on documentary and library studies. Findings indicate that economic and political structures and policies in different periods, both before and after the revolution, have played a decisive role in shaping urban development patterns in Iran, resulting in spatial inequality, centralization, uneven development, and structural dependency. Therefore, the analysis of space cannot be separated from power relations and economic forces, and this approach can provide a foundation for reforming urban design processes in Iran.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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International Political Economy Studies
Volume 9, Issue 2
September 2026
Pages 109-127

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History

  • Receive Date: 27 July 2025
  • Revise Date: 18 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 23 March 2026

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