The Link Between Human Resource Development Strategies and Employee Empowerment Considering the Mediating Mechanism of Cultural Intelligence

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the relationship between human resource development strategies and employee empowerment considering the mediating role of cultural intelligence at the Command Headquarters of Kerman Province Law Enforcement. Methodology: This applied study employed a descriptive-survey design in terms of data collection. The statistical population consisted of all employees at the Command Headquarters of Kerman Province Law Enforcement (N = 640), from which a sample of 242 individuals was selected using Cochran’s formula through simple random sampling. Data were collected using three standardized questionnaires: the Human Resource Development Strategies Questionnaire, the Employee Empowerment Questionnaire, and the Cultural Intelligence Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 with both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. Findings: The results revealed a significant positive relationship between human resource development strategies and employee empowerment. Furthermore, cultural intelligence served as a mediating variable in this relationship; employees with higher cultural intelligence experienced a stronger effect of HR development strategies on their empowerment. Conclusion: Based on the findings, applying human resource development strategies alongside the enhancement of cultural intelligence can effectively improve employee empowerment. These results highlight the necessity of integrating educational and cultural programs into organizational development efforts to enhance human resource effectiveness.