Analysis of stakeholder power and convergence for climate-resilient urban parks: A MACTOR study in Tabriz

Urban parks play a critical role in strengthening socio-environmental resilience, especially in semi-arid and rapidly urbanizing regions. This study investigates how stakeholder dynamics and governance structures shape the resilience of urban parks in Tabriz, Iran. A mixed-method design was applied, combining 31 expert interviews with MACTOR analysis. Ten key stakeholder groups were identified and assessed across 34 resilience objectives in terms of influence, interdependence, and strategic alignment. Results reveal a 53-point power gap between dominant political actors (City Councils: 215; Municipalities: 207) and marginalized technical experts (Horticultural Scientists: 162). The analysis identifies a critical implementation paradox where high consensus on ecological goals contrasts with low agreement on technical solutions like permeable materials (consensus score: 31), reflecting institutional and operational barriers. The findings emphasize that effective urban park resilience requires bridging participatory planning and technical expertise through decentralized, polycentric governance. By linking stakeholder analysis with resilience planning, this study provides a replicable framework for fostering more adaptive, inclusive, and climate-responsive urban park systems in similar socio-ecological contexts. • Quantifies a 53-point power gap between political and technical actors. • Reveals a governance paradox: consensus does not ensure implementation. • Maps stakeholder networks to identify key bridging actors and gaps. • Proposes formal advisory boards to bridge consensus and action.