The Role of Artificial Emotional Intelligence in Enhancing Employee Engagement and Performance in Public Sector Human Resource Management: A Focus on Iran

This study systematically reviews the potential role of Artificial Emotional Intelligence (AEI) in enhancing employee engagement and performance within public sector human resource management, with a particular focus on Iran. Using a structured literature review method following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, peer-reviewed articles and reports from ۲۰۱۰ to ۲۰۲۵ were analyzed. The review explores how AEI functionalities align with classical HR theories such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, and Public Service Motivation (PSM), while also considering the cultural dimensions critical to Iran, including collectivism, power distance, and high-context communication. Key themes identified include the importance of cultural adaptation in AEI design, the potential of AEI to improve emotional engagement and job satisfaction, and emerging ethical considerations. Gaps in localized empirical research and ethical frameworks are highlighted, suggesting future directions for research and policy. This paper offers a culturally sensitive foundation for the ethical implementation of AEI technologies in the Iranian public sector.

Keywords:

Artificial Emotional Intelligence (AEI) , Employee Performance , Public Sector HR , Public Service Motivation (PSM) , Systematic Literature Review