Management and Development Process

Objctive:  This study aimed to develop a policy design framework to address the dissemination of sexual fluidity discourse in Iran. Sexual fluidity is a complex, multidimensional phenomenon encompassing biological, psychological, social, cultural, and political dimensions, requiring a qualitative and comprehensive approach.

Research Design/Methodology: The study employed thematic analysis based on Peters’ (2018) public policy design model. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 19 experts in philosophy, law, policy-making, psychology, sociology, and international relations. The analysis identified four overarching themes, 16 first-level organizing themes, 76 second-level themes, and 587 basic codes.

Findings: Results indicated that sexual fluidity extends beyond an individual or psychological issue; it is an identity-shaping phenomenon with civilizational and political underpinnings, promoted in global discourse, challenging family structures and the concept of partnership. The conceptual framework of the data was organized into four main axes: (1) problem analysis, (2) core values and overarching goals, (3) policy strategies and instruments, and (4) intervention design requirements and ex-ante evaluation criteria. The study’s key innovation is the addition of a policy problematization (issue-raising) stage, which, through highlighting the issue, building stakeholder consensus, and establishing a paradigmatic framework, facilitates the informed integration of the phenomenon into the policy agenda.

Originality/Value: The study presents an integrated, policy-design-based framework to counter the dissemination of sexual fluidity discourse in Iran.

Practical/Policy Implications: Coordinated media, educational, and legal policy packages, alongside the development of indigenous policy evaluation indicators, are recommended.