Soft Leadership in Ayatollah Khamenei’s Governance Model

Author

Associate professor, Research Institute of Hawzeh and University, Qom, Iran

Abstract

Ayatollah Khamenei, by presenting and implementing the model of Islamic governance in the Islamic world, has been the source of significant transformations and influence. Therefore, re-examining this model and clarifying its components is essential. This article aims to define the elements and characteristics of "soft leadership" within this model. The explanation of the essence of soft leadership in this governance model is conducted using a descriptive-analytical method, with data collection from library and documentary sources and critical analysis techniques, yielding valuable scientific findings. The research results indicate that soft leadership in Ayatollah Khamenei's governance model includes critical components such as spirituality and God-consciousness, knowledge and technology, culture, politics, and security. Spirituality and God-consciousness in the thought of the wise leader of the Islamic Revolution are identified with value indicators such as piety, faith, trust in God, duty orientation, martyrdom, sacrifice, and sincerity. Knowledge and technology, according to the statements of Imam Khamenei, are characterized by indicators like self-confidence, innovation, creativity, and hope. Culture, in the discourse of the Supreme Leader, encompasses themes such as religion and beliefs, lifestyle, countering anti-values like corruption and disorder, and confronting media threats, cultural invasions, and cultural aggression. Another essential component of soft power in Ayatollah Khamenei's governance model is politics, defined as actions stemming from the profession of leadership, including creating and preserving virtues and actions in society. From the Supreme Leader's perspective, desirable politics include indicators such as spirituality, justice, wealth, and welfare. In Ayatollah Khamenei's governance discourse, security at both domestic and international levels holds a special place

Keywords


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