Author(s)

H. Shayan

Abstract

In this study, the conditions of 11 border provinces of Iran including Ardabil, West and East Azarbaijan, Kordestan, Kermanshah, Ilam, Khouzestan, Hormozgan, Sistan & Blouchestan, and Khorassan with respect to certain indicators such as life expectancy, literacy level and birth rate have been explored, using statistical U-, T- and Z-tests as well as correlation coefficients. The findings indicate that there are significant differences between internal provinces and border provinces, especially Sistan & Blouchestan, Kordestan, Ilam, Kermanshah, West Azarbaijan and Hormozgan with respect to the abovementioned indicators, differences which have resulted in a negative migration balance. On the other hand, the economic dependence of these provinces on adjacent countries can result in their political-cultural disintegration and consequently in a decline in national identity, power and s

Keywords