The Evolution of Professionalization of Public Management in Iran

Purpose: In the present article, an attempt is made to critically study the professionalization of management in the Iranian public sector, taking into account the principle of public interests protection. Methodology: Historical analysis method was adopted. Based on this approach, and relying on historical evidence, the process of professionalization in Iran's public sector was analyzed with regard to the environmental conditions and the requirements arising from it. Findings: The results of literature analysis show that three types of coalition can be proposed regarding public management: a. proponents of professionalization of public management, b. proponents of de-professionalization of public management, c. proponents of modified professionalization of jobs. The findings also indicate that according to the six stages of professionalization of jobs, professionalization of public administration in Iran started in the 1960’s but has been going through its evolutionary stages at a slow pace. Originality: The professionalization analysis of management in the public sector of Iran was studied through the public interest protection approach. By aggregating the pros and cons of management professionalism, this analysis has been able to emphasize the need for modified professionalization. Keywords: Professionalization, De-Professionalization, Public Administration, Ethical Charter, Service Aspiration.