Agency Practices Research Articles

Модели оперативного реагирования на чрезвычайные обстоятельства в сфере охраны правопорядка и обеспечения общественной безопасности

Introduction: this article presents an analysis of the models of response employed by executive authorities in emergency circumstances. The authors justify the necessity of supplementing the centralized model of command and control with models of coordination. It is highlighted that there is a need to extend the autonomy of responders deployed to the scene of an incident in order to enable them to make response decisions. Materials and Methods: in preparing this article, a comprehensive range of specialized literature and a substantial collection of empirical materials reflecting the practice of prompt response to emergencies in diverse countries were examined. The distinctive features of normative-legal regulations governing the mitigation of adverse factors were also considered. The case-interview method was employed to identify the organizational attributes of prompt services. A comparative approach was employed to examine the experiences of prompt response units in foreign countries. Results: the findings of the study indicate that during the initial deployment of forces and resources until the implementation of a specific legal framework, the primary responsibility for responding to emergencies lies with the frontline units of law enforcement agencies. The practice of law enforcement agencies in emergency situations demonstrates the necessity for supplementing the centralised management model with models of horizontal coordination of front-line units' actions, thereby affording them autonomy in decision-making during the initial response period. Discussion and Conclusions: it is evident that the forward coordination model cannot be regarded as an isolated method for organising an emergency response. The forward units deployed to the scene of an incident are in possession of more detailed information about the actual situation. However, in contrast to the higher levels of management, they lack the comprehensive information that characterises the prompt situation. The intricate nature of the negative factors in question necessitates interagency collaboration, which the units directly engaged in suppression activities are unable to achieve without assistance.

Exposure to child sexual abuse materials among law enforcement investigative personnel: Exploring trauma and resilience profiles.

This study aimed to identify distinct profiles of investigators based on their exposure to child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and associated mental health symptomatology. Specifically, the study seeks to differentiate resilient profiles from those exhibiting psychopathologies. Additionally, this research explores resilience as a transdiagnostic and distal factor, examining individual- and agency-level coping and resiliency factors. An analytic sample of 500 police investigators and forensic examiners exposed to CSAM comprised the current sample. Latent profile analysis identified five profiles based on CSAM exposure and psychopathology. Profiles were compared across various individual- and agency-level factors. Distinct profiles emerged, including low exposure and psychopathology, average exposure and low psychopathology, low exposure and high psychopathology, high exposure and low psychopathology (representing resilience), and high exposure and high psychopathology. Resilient profiles demonstrated higher scores in general resiliency, future orientations, and purpose in life. Noteworthy differences were found in individual- and agency-level factors, emphasizing the role of appreciation, support, and a positive work climate. The study underscores the diversity of experiences among law enforcement professionals conducting CSAM investigations. Resilient profiles highlight the importance of factors like mattering, appreciation, support, and a positive work climate. These findings have implications for wellness training and agency practices to enhance the well-being of investigators dedicated to protecting children. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Колабораційна діяльність та пособництво державі-агресору: теоретико-практичне розмежування

Abstract. This article is dedicated to the analysis of newly introduced provisions in the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which criminalize such offenses as "collaborative activities" and "assistance to the aggressor state." Research into the practices of law enforcement agencies in investigating these crimes has revealed complexity in distinguishing between the aforementioned offenses and related provisions of the same Code that were adopted earlier. This necessitated a deeper analysis of this issue. The article provides a theoretical analysis of Articles 1111 and 1112 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, demonstrating certain similarities in their formulations. This can be explained by the urgent need for their rapid adoption in light of the international armed conflict initiated by the Russian Federation on February 24, 2024. The legislature, aiming to prevent future offenses by individuals residing in the occupied territories, defined a range of criminally punishable acts but somewhat allowed for tautology and included concepts lacking universally accepted meanings in the process of drafting these provisions. The identified errors in drafting these norms contribute to the complexity of developing judicial practice and correctly applying them in practice. Against the backdrop of the theoretical analysis of these norms, the authors proposed their differentiation, particularly between Part 4 of Article 1111 and the relevant part of Article 1112, which envisage "voluntary collection, preparation, and/or transfer of material resources or other assets to representatives of the aggressor state." It is suggested to differentiate these nearly identical forms of criminal acts based on the form of possession of material resources and assets or the circle of subjects to whom they are addressed. Given the aforementioned issues, in July 2022, a bill was introduced to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine proposing amendments to the Criminal Code of Ukraine. The project contains a revised version of Article 1111 "Collaborative Activities," which includes an updated list of criminal offenses, including those envisaged in Article 1112 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (the latter is proposed for exclusion). According to the authors, these changes will eliminate all contentious issues regarding the complexity of distinguishing between these and related norms, which in turn will positively affect the work of law enforcement agencies. Keywords: collaborative activities; assistance to the aggressor state; state treason; occupation authority; occupied territories; armed conflict.

Book Review: Police Social Work: Social Work Practice in Law Enforcement Agencies

Book Review: Police Social Work: Social Work Practice in Law Enforcement Agencies

COMBATANT IMMUNITY AND THE RUSSIAN-UKRAINIAN WAR: REOPENING THE DEBATE ON A LONGSTANDING DOCTRINE

Background: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has resulted in the largest conflict in Europe since the Second World War, with estimates suggesting that hundreds of thousands of Russian soldiers are implementing the will of the aggressor state. It has long been believed that combatants are immune from criminal prosecution for their actions during hostilities, including the killing of military personnel defending the victim state unless they violate the laws of war. However, this immunity has naturally generated criticism in the Ukrainian legal community. In this article, the authors analyse the critical arguments made by opponents of combatant immunity and seek to clarify the legal and ethical grounds of the controversial doctrine. Furthermore, the well-known debate on the significance of citizenship (nationality) for recognising combatant or prisoner of war status and the liability of defectors is revisited from a new perspective. Methods: The article is based on an analysis of IHL sources, commentaries, state practices, precedents and scientific views on combatant immunity. Additionally, the article examines the practices of law enforcement agencies in Ukraine and the perspectives of Ukrainian criminal law scholars. General scientific methods of cognition (induction, deduction, analysis, synthesis), as well as historical, empirical and systemic-structural methods, are used. The article is structured into three parts. The initial section provides a comprehensive overview of the status of a combatant and their associated privileges within the context of international humanitarian law (IHL), with a particular focus on the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The second section delves into the debate surrounding Ukraine's obligation to respect the immunity of the combatant of the aggressor state and offers the authors' conclusions on this matter. The third section addresses the liability of defectors, focusing on the implications of citizenship (nationality) for combatants and prisoners of war (POW). Results and conclusions: Several Ukrainian scholars have expressed their unreserved disagreement with Ukraine's application of the doctrine of combatant immunity to Russian soldiers. In the absence of a direct reference to this exceptional privilege in international treaties to which Ukraine is a party and in light of the a priori unlawfulness of aggression, the critical arguments are not without merit. Nevertheless, we conclude that respect for the immunity of a combatant representing the aggressor state is part of Ukraine's international obligations and has a certain justification. Concurrently, the article acknowledges that the legal and ethical grounds for this are not entirely clear. The question of whether defectors should be recognised as combatants and/or prisoners of war is similarly unclear. Nevertheless, we are convinced that regardless of the answer to this question, the criminal prosecution of defectors for high treason cannot be considered a violation of the immunity of a combatant.

Critical reflexivities of women who cared for others during their childhood

This study examines the childhood care experiences of women between 20 and 30 years of age from low-income households in Santiago, Chile, by employing semi-structured interviews and qualitative analysis. At present, women understand their caregiving roles as older sisters, one which burdened them with agency practices, shaping critical reflections regarding the social organisation of care and influencing their present identity. They also articulate a desire for emotional resilience, a coping mechanism previously observed in low-income neighbourhoods in Chile. While downplaying their caregiving past, they subtly reveal the weight and regret associated with their responsibilities, influencing their reluctance to become mothers in the present. This study underscores the intricate interplay of past care experiences with present decisions, revealing the impacts of empowering discourses on women’s ideals and achievements, and the inherent fragility they carry.

Law Enforcement Agency Practices and Policies for the Investigation of Child Sex Trafficking: Are Agencies Using Victim-Centered Approaches?

AbstractOver the past decade, efforts have been made to reform the way in which law enforcement responds to child sex trafficking (CST). Law enforcement agencies are being urged or required to use victim-centered approaches that provide exploited youth with support and services. However, researchers have yet to empirically examine law enforcement’s recognition of CST at the agency-level, their arrest practices, or the services that are being offered to CST victims. We have little information about the utilization and effectiveness of various law enforcement agency policies, practices and training programs related to CST. The National Law Enforcement Agency Child Sex Trafficking (LEA-CST) Study aimed to address these gaps through a national survey of law enforcement agencies around the U.S. The current study reports on mail survey data collected from a sample of 1,306 agencies that provided feedback on the use of up to nine victim-centered approaches to CST at their agency. Data were analyzed along with information about whether their agency investigated at least one case of CST in the year 2021. Almost all agencies (97.5%) said they used or had access to at least one victim-centered approach to CST investigations, with larger agencies reporting a greater number of approaches. Two policies were significantly related to a greater likelihood of investigating at least one case of CST in 2021: Access to a CST-specific task force and access to a CST-specific victim service agency. Findings document a growing orientation to these cases by law enforcement that recognizes youth victimization, with innovative approaches to identification and support. Community collaboration appears to be critical to helping to identify, support and provide justice to CST victims.Research Summary This study examined law enforcement’s recognition of CST at the agency-level, their arrest practices, and the services that are being offered to CST victims. Among 1,306 agencies across the United States, almost all (97.5%) said they used or had access to at least one victim-centered approach to CST investigations, with larger agencies reporting a greater number of approaches. Two policies were significantly related to a greater likelihood of investigating at least one CST case in 2021: Access to a CST-specific task force and access to a CST-specific victim service agency.Policy Implications Findings from the current study underscore the importance of victim-centered approaches to CST that feature connections and collaborations across communities. These collaborations champion the wellness of youth who have experienced this unique and egregious form of sexual victimization while simultaneously allowing for criminal investigations to proceed, ideally with minimal re-traumatization of the victim.

The Business of Egg Transactions and Need for Improved Regulation of the Fertility Industry in Canada

In Canada, ethical and legal debates around egg donation have largely focused on the question of whether egg providers should be paid, since payment for egg donation is prohibited through the federal Assisted Human Reproduction Act, 2004. One of the generally overlooked issues, however, is the potential for fertility clinics and agencies to mistreat egg providers. There is little legal oversight of the practices of fertility clinics and agencies in Canada, and scholars have raised concerns about the potential for mistreatment of egg providers. This article examines the medical care of egg providers in Canada by presenting data from qualitative interviews with 14 egg providers. While some egg providers felt well cared for, others were left feeling like a means to an end — they felt that insufficient information was provided for consent, there was an inability to communicate with the clinic, and they were physically mistreated. I argue that not only do egg providers’ experiences run contrary to the CMA Code of Ethics, but they also run contrary to laws, regulations, and guidelines that are intended to ensure that people who undergo fertility treatments are not harmed.

Assessing factors related to Walleye stocking success in the Midwestern United States

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate stocking success of Walleye Sander vitreus in lakes and reservoirs across the Midwestern United States to inform stocking practices for state agencies. Demand for Walleye stocking may increase if climate change limits the potential for natural recruitment in lakes. Consequently, the strategic distribution of Walleye stocking may maximize fishing opportunities.MethodsWe synthesized data from 2226 Walleye fry and fingerling stocking events on 653 lakes in the Midwestern United States and used random forest algorithms and mixed‐effects linear models to identify abiotic and biotic factors related to Walleye stocking success.ResultLatitude and year explained relatively little variation in stocking success compared to within‐lake variation. Relative abundance of Largemouth Bass Micropterus nigricans was an important indicator of Walleye stocking success for fry and fingerlings, with stocking success generally decreasing with increased bass abundance. There was an interaction between lake surface area and growing degree‐days, as large lakes (>2500 ha) seemed to be more conducive to Walleye stocking success regardless of growing degree‐days. The models that we developed did not accurately predict exact levels of Walleye stocking success but were 92–94% accurate in predicting whether the stocking success of both fry and fingerlings would be at or above the 50th percentile.ConclusionThese findings may help to inform the management and stocking allocation of Walleye and suggest that future increases in Largemouth Bass abundance and growing degree‐days could limit the effectiveness of stocking in some lakes.

Data Quality and Legal Barriers to Linking US Government Social Program Data

To link social program data, such as employment, welfare, education, and human services data, a set of high-quality variables or fields are needed to facilitate rigorous linkage. The siloed nature of data collection in the US leads to a lack of consistency in the data that agencies collect. The data that one needs to make high quality linkages are often exactly those that government agencies are unwilling and unable to collect, or those that have poor quality. This has significant implications for privacy-protecting record-linkage and other techniques whereby privacy and confidentiality can be appropriately addressed. There are some obvious examples. For example, in the US, many agencies are unlikely to collect or share Social Security Number because of privacy concerns. A different type of example many agencies collect race or ethnicity poorly, so that the data is not consistent over time or simply inaccurate at the point of collection. Some programs may only collect age or month and year of birthdate. This presentation will discuss strategies to address these barriers short of changing agency practice around data sharing. It will also address how policies are a barrier to better linkage and data use. Also, how the proposed National Secure Data Service may affect state capacity to conduct linkage will also be discussed. This presentation is based on 40 years of experience working with the US federal government, states, and local agencies.

Analyzing Real Estate Agency Practices: A comparative study and path ahead

The summary briefly overviews the changes and problems in real estate agency practices in Malaysia from 1981 onwards. It emphasizes ethical issues, technological developments, and regulatory focus areas. The abstract also explains a comparative research study about how real estate is done in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, and Hong Kong to find similarities and areas needing improvement. The study discovers likenesses in controlling frameworks but indicates improvements relating to qualification standards, education levels for practitioners, and, their tactics of enforcement, and monitoring through comparing analysis.

When your reputation precedes you: strategic recruitment for enhancing diversity

PurposeThis paper provides a discussion of evidence supporting strategic, targeted recruitment for increasing minority representation in police agencies in the context of negative reputations for inclusion.Design/methodology/approachDatabase searching along with backward and forward citation chaining identified 145 articles for review. After extracting the recruitment strategies mentioned that had empirical support for effectiveness, a framework was developed for categorizing those strategies.FindingsPolice agencies use some evidence-based practices (e.g. community engagement) but could do more to enhance diversity. Strategy applicability in the context of limited organizational diversity or a less positive reputation as an inclusive employer is discussed.Practical implicationsThis review provides a clear set of recommended best practices for agencies to use in evaluating and enhancing their efforts at targeted recruiting.Originality/valueReviews of recruiting practices in policing have not provided a deep consideration of the evidence base for practice effectiveness nor considered practices that have support in non-policing contexts. Our review addresses the concerns of agencies that must address a less positive image regarding diversity and inclusion.

A life marked by early school leaving: gendered working life paths linked to health and well-being over 40 years

BackgroundThere is increasing awareness of the need to analyse symptoms of mental ill-health among early school leavers. Dropping out of compulsory education limits access to the labour market and education and could be related to deteriorating mental health over the course of a lifetime. The aim of this longitudinal study is to explore how early school leavers not in education, employment or training (NEET) narrate their working life trajectories linked to health, agency and gender relations.MethodsTwelve early school leavers in the Swedish Northern Cohort (six women and six men) were interviewed over 40 years about their working life and health. Their life stories were analysed using structural narrative analysis to examine the evolution of their working life paths and to identify commonalities, variations and gendered patterns.ResultsAll the participants started in the same position of “an unhealthy gendered working life in youth due to NEET status”. Subsequently, three distinct working life paths evolved: “a precarious gendered working life with negative health implications”, “a stable gendered working life in health challenging jobs” and “a self-realising gendered working life with improved health”. Agency was negotiated through struggle narratives, survival narratives, coping narratives and redemption narratives.ConclusionsEven in a welfare regime like Sweden’s in the early 1980s, early school leavers not in education, employment or training experienced class-related and gendered working and living conditions, which created unequal conditions for health. Despite Sweden’s active labour market policies and their own practices of agency, the participants still ended up NEET and with precarious working life paths. Labour market policies should prioritise reducing unemployment, combating precarious employment, creating job opportunities, providing training and subsidised employment in healthy environments, and offering grants to re-enter further education. Our study highlights the need for further analyses of the contextual and gendered expressions of health among early school leavers throughout their lifetime, and of individual agency in various contexts for overcoming adversities.

Ethical Implications of AI in Criminal Justice: Balancing Efficiency and Due Process

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into criminal justice systems presents a complex landscape of opportunities and challenges. This research article critically examines the ethical implications of AI applications in various facets of criminal justice, from predictive policing to sentencing algorithms. While AI promises enhanced efficiency and data-driven decision-making, it simultaneously raises significant concerns about fairness, transparency, and the preservation of due process rights. This study employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining legal analysis, ethical philosophy, and empirical research to evaluate the current state of AI in criminal justice and project future trajectories. We analyze case studies from multiple jurisdictions, highlighting both successful implementations and controversial failures of AI systems in law enforcement and judicial processes. Our findings reveal a tension between the pursuit of efficiency through AI and the fundamental principles of due process. We identify several key ethical challenges, including algorithmic bias, lack of transparency in decision-making processes, and the potential erosion of human judgment in critical legal determinations. The research also uncovers disparate impacts on marginalized communities, raising concerns about the exacerbation of existing inequalities within the justice system. To address these challenges, we propose a comprehensive ethical framework for the development and deployment of AI in criminal justice. This framework emphasizes the need for continuous human oversight, regular audits of AI systems, and the establishment of clear accountability mechanisms. We argue for a balanced approach that leverages the benefits of AI while safeguarding individual rights and maintaining the integrity of judicial processes. The article concludes by outlining policy recommendations and best practices for lawmakers, judiciary, and law enforcement agencies. These recommendations aim to foster responsible innovation in criminal justice AI, ensuring that technological advancements align with ethical standards and constitutional protections. Our research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on AI ethics in the legal domain and provides a roadmap for the ethical integration of AI in criminal justice systems worldwide.

Trends and prospects for the development of the derivatives market in Russia under sanctions

Aim. To analyze trends on the derivatives market in Russia under sanctions and identify prospects for its development.Objectives. To study the theoretical basis and functions of the derivatives market; to analyze its current state in Russia, to assess the impact of sanctions on the dynamics and structure of the derivatives market; to identify trends and determine scenarios for its development in the Russian state under sanctions; to develop recommendations to improve the efficiency and development of the derivatives market under external pressure.Methods. The author applied the methods of analysis, synthesis, generalization, comparison, analogy, historical analysis. The analysis of publications with the subsequent interpretation has been carried out, the results of research have been summarized, on the basis of which the author’s understanding of the derivatives market development trends has been derived. Comparison of the existing opinions concerning the considered problems was carried out, statistical data were investigated.Results. Under the conditions of sanctions Russian banks, financial organizations, exporters and importers faced restricted access to international markets, there were changes in demand, there were needs for new instruments. Sanctions contribute to the development and implementation of new instruments in the derivatives market. The main scientific result of the work is to identify effective approaches to the development of the derivatives market under external pressure. The results of the study can be used in the practice of financial institutions, banks and government agencies to develop strategies and development of operations with derivatives.Conclusions. The derivatives market plays an important role in the Russian economy, performing the functions of risk hedging, price formation and contributing to the predictability of financial flows, which is especially important in the conditions of sanctions pressure. An assessment of the current state of the derivatives market in Russia has revealed significant changes in its structure and dynamics. The introduction of sanctions led to the introduction of new financial instruments, sanctions stimulated innovation and development of domestic infrastructure. The role of financial market infrastructural organizations, state institutions and the Bank of Russia is increasing. There is a growing interest in local and regional hedging instruments, increasing importance of the domestic market and markets of friendly countries. The prospects for the development of the derivatives market in the Russian state look promising if a number of steps are realized. Possible development scenarios include: further strengthening of internal infrastructure, simplification of accounting procedures, development of new financial products adapted to current conditions.

Beginning Teachers as Change Agents—for Sustainable Societies

Based on findings from a study of beginning teachers’ concepts of professionalism in Jamaica, this paper argues for the development of pedagogy in teacher education to address sustainability. The findings indicate that at the core of beginning teachers’ concept of the teacher as a professional is that of the teacher as a change agent. What these teachers mean when they speak of change agents and change agency is the subject of this paper. Specifically the paper analyzes prospective and beginning teachers’ understanding and practice of change agency within the context of one of the critical philosophies of our times—that of sustainability. The analysis reveals the gaps and limitations of their understanding and practice. The paper concludes by suggesting how teacher education pedagogy, focused on sustainability, would have enabled these teachers to be effective change agents.

Forensic genetics in the shadows

Abstract This article examines the controversial practice of law enforcement agencies searching genetic samples obtained in health care settings, without a warrant or consent. While police have previously used public genealogy databases for this purpose, our article describes how they are now secretly accessing genetic information from newborn screening programs and medical tests. This raises ethical and legal concerns, blurring the line between health care and law enforcement. This, in turn, may discourage people from seeking important medical care due to distrust in the police and privacy concerns. To explore public attitudes on this issue, the authors conducted a study examining how lay people view the forensic use of clinical genetic data for different types of crimes. Our findings suggest that people take a utilitarian perspective, where they are more likely to support warrantless searches for serious and ongoing crimes but more likely to oppose these searches for more minor offenses like theft. However, regardless of public support, the little-known practice undermines trust in health care institutions and violates patient privacy. We recommend three legal reforms to restrict law enforcement access to clinical and public health genetic databases and to require explicit consent to forensic uses.

The role of external review in enhancing tax planning practices for investment agencies and companies in the sports sector and its impact on the Saudi economy

The role of external review in enhancing tax planning practices for investment agencies and companies in the sports sector and its impact on the Saudi economy

Utilization of National Health Insurance capitation funds at puskesmas: A qualitative study in Medan Labuhan Subdistrict, Medan City

The Indonesian National Health Insurance (JKN) system uses a capitation payment mechanism to fund primary healthcare services. However, utilization of these funds has been a subject of concern because of the potential for unutilized funds and inefficient allocation. This study aimed to investigate the utilization of capitation funds in three Puskesmas (primary healthcare facilities) in Medan Labuhan, Medan City, in 2023. Using a qualitative descriptive research approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, document analyses, and direct observations. The participants included puskesmas heads, technical implementation officers, primary healthcare service team leaders, financial subsection heads, and health office department heads. Triangulation was used to ensure data validity. The study revealed that overall capitation fund utilization was suboptimal, particularly in terms of operational cost support. This was attributed to delays in budget implementation documents, lengthy and bureaucratic procurement processes, and a lack of understanding among capitation fund management personnel at Puskesmas. To optimize capitation fund utilization, this study recommends streamlining bureaucratic procedures, providing training for capitation fund management personnel, and adopting effective financial management practices for public service agencies. These measures can contribute to improved quality and professionalism in healthcare services delivered by Puskesmas in Medan Labuhan.

Potential of Metaverse as New Technology to Improve the Property Agency Practice

Metaverse technology is regarded as the new revolution of the internet. It is a digital world that allows users to create their own avatars to interact and socialise with others. The continued development of the metaverse will change the way houses are viewed and transacted in the future, improving real estate agents' marketing practices. This research aims to understand the awareness and perspectives of real estate agents about metaverse technology. Therefore, the first research objective is to investigate the level of awareness of metaverse technology among real estate agents in Malaysia. The second research objective is to examine the perceived benefits of adopting metaverse technology by real estate agents in Malaysia in the future. Questionnaires were distributed to real estate agents who work in Malaysia and are registered under the Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents, and Property Managers. The collected data were analysed using frequency analysis, crosstabulation analysis, and mean score analysis. Overall, the findings show the level of awareness of metaverse technology among real estate agents in Malaysia and their perspectives on its adoption as part of their practices. Thus, this research can contribute to real estate agents, practitioners, firms, and researchers.