Balanced Policy Research Articles

Empowering work-life balance: Exploring the nexus of flexible work arrangements, job satisfaction, and women's well-being in SMEs

The aim of this study is to evaluate flexible working arrangements, work-life balance, and job satisfaction among women who work in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of flexible working arrangements, particularly for women juggling work and family responsibilities. The study evaluates the extent to which flexible working arrangements enable women to maintain a balance between work and family life in order to achieve work-related satisfaction. One hundred and thirty questionnaires were collected from the respondents for analysis. The analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between flexible working arrangements and work-life balance/job satisfaction among women working in SMEs. Importantly, work-life balance is an explicit factor that influences job satisfaction and mediates the relationship between flexible working arrangements and job satisfaction. These findings emphasize the need for organizations to seriously consider implementing flexible working arrangements and work-life balance policies in return for enhanced satisfaction of their workforce, especially women in SMEs in Malaysia. Research in this area is scarce; however, these findings offer valuable insights for SMEs in improving employee satisfaction and striving for growth and sustainability in the long run.

Stark Decline in Journalists’ Use of Preprints Postpandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of preprints, aiding rapid research dissemination but also facilitating the spread of misinformation. This study analyzes media coverage of preprints from 2014 to 2023, revealing a significant postpandemic decline. Our findings suggest that heightened awareness of the risks associated with preprints has led to more cautious media practices. While the decline in preprint coverage may mitigate concerns about premature media exposure, it also raises questions about the future role of preprints in science communication, especially during emergencies. Balanced policies based on up-to-date evidence are needed to address this shift.

How Effective Are Work-Life Balance Policies? The Importance of Inclusion

In this manuscript we review research on the effectiveness of work-life balance (WLB) policies in improving employee and organizational outcomes. We find that while WLB policies are often implemented with good intentions, their effects are generally small or inconsistent. We identify eight barriers to policy inclusivity that we theorize are linked to reduced effectiveness—a narrow definition of family, focusing on work-family rather than work-nonwork balance, low policy awareness, the practical constraints of access, overlooking vulnerable workers, the nature of the job, supervisor attitudes and behaviors, and unsupportive organizational cultures—and make recommendations for addressing these barriers. We also highlight the importance of considering individual differences and cultural contexts when implementing WLB policies. We conclude by proposing future research directions, such as examining coworker support and the impact of national culture on policy effectiveness.

The Gains and Losses of Cultivated Land Requisition–Compensation Balance: Analysis of the Spatiotemporal Trade-Offs and Synergies in Ecosystem Services Using Hubei Province as a Case Study

The cultivated land requisition–compensation balance (CLRCB) policy is an important policy implemented by China to address the reduction in cultivated land and ensure food security. Although this policy has alleviated the loss of cultivated land quantity, it has had complex and diverse impacts on ecosystem services. Taking Hubei Province as the study area, this research explores the impact of the implementation of the CLRCB on ecosystem services and simulates the changes in ecosystem services in the study area in 2030 and the impact of CLRCB on the interactions among various services. The results show the following: (1) from 2000 to 2020, Hubei Province achieved a balance in the quantity of cultivated land through excessive compensation but failed to reach the goals of balancing cultivated land yield and productivity. (2) During the requisition–compensation process, habitat quality decreased by 501,862, and carbon storage lost 1.3 × 107 t, indicating negative ecological impacts; soil conservation services increased by 184.2 × 106 t, and water production increased by 21.29.3 × 108 m3. Within the cultivated land requisition–compensation area, habitat quality and carbon storage, as well as soil conservation and water production, exhibited synergistic relationships, while the remaining pairs of ecosystem services showed trade-off relationships. (3) The simulation of ecosystem services in 2030 indicates that soil conservation and water production are highest under the natural development scenario, while habitat quality and carbon storage are highest under the ecological protection scenario, both of which are superior to the urban development scenario. Under the natural development scenario, the trade-off and synergistic relationships among various ecosystem services in the cultivated land requisition–compensation area remain unchanged, while these relationships change significantly under the other two scenarios. This study emphasizes that future CLRCB should not only focus on maintaining the quantity of cultivated land but also consider the comprehensive benefits of ecosystem services, in order to achieve sustainable land-use management and ecological conservation.

From Handouts to Empowerment: Impacts of Policy Subsidies and Employment Support on the Well-Being of Disabled Veterans

Balancing policy subsidies and employment support is crucial for developing effective assistance policies for disabled veterans. This study conducted an empirical investigation in China using 315 survey questionnaires. The findings indicate that, first, subsidies have a positive impact on the well-being of disabled veterans, but this effect diminishes as disability severity increases. Second, employment emerges as a crucial factor that surpasses subsidies in contributing to overall well-being. As disability severity increases, the relative impact of employment on well-being strengthens. Third, employment enhances well-being by improving self-identity, while the influence of subsidies on self-identity is relatively minimal. Additionally, a policy model demonstrates that subsidies enhance individual well-being but increase group uncertainty, whereas employment support improves individual well-being and reduces group uncertainty. These insights are valuable for governments when formulating policies related to social security, employment stability, and welfare protection.

Религиозный фактор в деструктивных социальных процессах (на примере исламизма)

Spiritual and cultural characteristics play a significant role in modern society. The religious factor is one of the key elements that ensure spiritual security, strengthen friendly relations between various ethnic and religious groups, and shape their self-determination. Religion is one of the driving forces of the development of civil society and even determines the degree of its intensity. Due to the increasing influence of religion on political processes, its influence is becoming extremely important for domestic and foreign policy activities, therefore, the government of any state should take into account religious specifics. The religious factor has a powerful consolidating condition in countering the development of destructive processes. At the same time, in order to satisfy personal ambitions and achieve political goals, despite the contradiction of the basic religious principles and doctrines, representatives of destructive religious trends actively use psychological methods of influence, using the faith and beliefs of their followers. The implementation of the proposed measures to ensure spiritual security in various spheres of civil society at all levels of government makes it possible to counteract destructive influences using religious beliefs. The aim of the study is to formulate the main outlines of a balanced policy in the ethno-confessional sphere and based on ideological principles that can provide conditions for agreement and unification of relations between political actors. It is precisely such ideological concepts that can act as a weighty opponent to the destructive process. In this study, methods based on rationalism, dialectics, comparative analysis, historiography were used, structural-functional and civilizational approaches were applied. The results of the research can be used in the development of conceptual documents in the field of security.

Constitutional and legal foundations of territorial integrity in federal states: historical and legal analysis

The article explores the constitutional and legal foundations of the territorial integrity of the federal states, focusing on historical and contemporary examples. The authors examine cases of successful and unsuccessful secession, as well as legal mechanisms used to prevent separatism. We take Spain, the USA, Canada, India, and Germany, as the examples to analyze the role of constitutional provisions in maintaining state unity. A key aspect of the study is the distribution of competencies between federal structures and federation subjects, which ensures a balance of interests and prevents internal conflicts. A great attention is paid to the principle of subsidiarity and the role of federation subjects in governance, contributing to the preservation of territorial integrity. The authors emphasize the importance of integration mechanisms and constitutional guarantees in maintaining the stability of the federal states. The article establishes that the territorial integrity of federal states is ensured through a set of constitutional and legal norms that regulate the relations between federal authorities and the subjects of the federation. These norms include a clear distribution of competencies, where federal authorities are responsible for national issues such as defense and foreign relations, while the subjects of the federation have powers in local governance. The principle of subsidiarity involves the participation of the federation’s subjects in state governance, ensuring a balance of interests and preventing internal conflicts. Additionally, the supreme legal authority of the federal constitution, mechanisms of federal intervention in case of threats to integrity, and the unity of the economic space all contribute to the stability and unity of the federal state, effectively countering separatist movements. It is determined that the participation of federation subjects in the process of constitutional amendments guarantees their representation and protection of interests, preventing unilateral changes in the state structure. The state language plays an important role, promoting national unity and preventing ethnic conflicts, which is critical for multinational federations. Furthermore, the representation of federation subjects in the national parliament ensures their influence on key decision-making, promoting more balanced policies and strengthening ties between the central government and the regions.

Migration problems of the Benelux countries in the context of joint European policy

The purpose of the article is to prove by specific examples the inability of the authorities of Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, united into the Benelux community, to regulate the flows of immigrants and refugees to their countries; to identify the consequences of a liberal policy towards foreigners, in particular, difficulties in integrating them into the European society. Along with this, the issues of the crime rate growth, the discontent of the local population with the destabilization of the situation and other topics are discussed. The author concludes that the Benelux countries, despite their efforts, are still unable to develop a unified balanced policy towards immigrants and refugees. This is due to great differences both in government circles and in the civil society of these countries.

Neoclassical Realism and Armenia’s International Orientation: An Attempt to Determine Patterns or Mechanisms of their Application?

The article examines neoclassical realism and Armenia’s international orientation as one of the directions in the transformation of the theory of international relations of small states. In this article, neoclassical realism is analyzed from the point of view of subjective aspects of policy formation and the influence of domestic political features of a small state on its foreign policy. Taking into account that neoclassical realism is a completely independent development of neorealism with a complementary elemental level of analysis of international politics. In terms of content, neoclassical realism of Armenia clarifies such concepts as resilience, national security, balance of power, balancing policy and others. The neoclassical model of Armenia’s foreign policy as a small state allows us to study the conditions under which great powers and small states deviate from the policy of balancing. From this point of view, the article proposes to analyze international politics through the prism of a global rollback to state-centric politics. The article takes into account that globalization presents new challenges for small countries such as Armenia, which risks being marginalized as a result of the restructuring of both global and regional economic relations.

Alcohol consumption response to pandemic induced income shocks in India

The study assesses the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on household consumption of alcohol in India, considering both income shocks and supply-side factors. based on a nationally representative household survey conducted by CMIE. Using a 2SLS panel regression model and employing an approach akin to difference-in-differences technique, our study finds that the pandemic induced lockdowns resulted in a sharp increase in the share of alcohol in total expenditure across rural and urban India, and for all income levels. Alcohol consumption varies by education level, by caste, religion, and severity of income shocks. The increased alcohol consumption during the pandemic, and more so among the households that faced a severe income shock, despite the supply restrictions, suggest the stronger impact of stress-response-dampening hypothesis and self-medication hypothesis compared to the income effect. Despite state-imposed supply restrictions, including temporary alcohol shop closures and subsequent reopening with higher taxes, the study raises concerns about a disproportionate rise in alcohol consumption among the most economically impacted. This underscores the need for balanced policy responses, considering both economic stressors and public health imperatives, and emphasizes targeted interventions to mitigate the consequences of increased alcohol consumption during crises.

Assessing the Effectiveness of Air Pollution Control Policy Mixes: A Case from China

ABSTRACT In recent years, there have been extensive theoretical discourse on policy mixes. Nevertheless, empirical research on the factors contributing to their effectiveness remains limited. This study examines the relationship between two features in policy mixes design, namely intensity and balance, as well as their impacts on policy effectiveness. Using provincial-level data from China (2013–2018), this paper explores how these features enhance policy outcomes. Our findings indicate that, the intensity of command-and-control policy instruments has a significant impact on improving policy effectiveness. Besides, balanced policy mixes are more effective when there is less scrutiny of the environmental performance assessment.

The Relationship between Income Inequality and Economic Growth

The relationship between income inequality and economic growth has long been a subject of intense academic debate, with varying perspectives emerging from different theoretical and empirical studies. This article delves into the complexities of this relationship, exploring how income inequality can both positively and negatively impact economic growth, depending on the context. Theoretical perspectives range from the classical Kuznets Curve, which posits that inequality initially increases with economic growth before eventually declining, to more contemporary views that highlight the risks of excessive inequality, particularly in developing economies. Empirical evidence from developed and developing countries further underscores the nuanced nature of this relationship. In developed economies, income inequality may sometimes promote growth by incentivizing investment and innovation, provided there are strong institutions to mitigate potential downsides. Conversely, in developing economies, high levels of inequality often inhibit growth by restricting access to education, healthcare, and other essential services, thus limiting human capital development. The study also emphasizes the critical role of institutions and policy interventions in shaping the relationship between income inequality and economic growth. Effective governance, progressive taxation, and investment in social infrastructure are highlighted as key strategies to balance growth with equity. The findings suggest that while some inequality might be necessary to spur economic progress, excessive inequality poses significant threats to long-term sustainable development. The article concludes by advocating for a balanced policy approach that promotes inclusive growth and ensures that the benefits of economic expansion are shared more broadly across society.

Analysis of the Influence of Work-Life Balance Policy on Employee Performance in Service Companies

Analysis of the Influence of Work-Life Balance Policy on Employee Performance in Service Companies

European Union gender equality and work–life balance policies: managing tensions between the demands of production and reproduction

European Union (EU) gender equality policies increasingly acknowledge the existence of tensions between the demands of productive and reproductive labour, with the former defined as waged work and the latter as the (unpaid) activities reproducing the labour force and provisioning for caring needs. As women increasingly enter the labour market, the EU addresses the growing tensions through new gender equality policy initiatives, prompting the question of whether these recognise the value of reproductive labour to the economy. This article analyses the discourses of three EU institutions (the European Commission, Council of the EU and European Parliament) and finds that EU policy as a whole continues to prioritise the interests of the productive economy. This results in a loss of the emancipatory potential of its gender equality goals, in particular, for women from working-class, minority ethnic or migration backgrounds.

Work-Family Balance and Remote Working among Women in Nigeria during Covid-19 Pandemic

Organisations face the challenge of establishing ways to mitigate the negative effects of work during coronavirus or Covid-19 pandemic. As a result work-family balance was disrupted and negatively affected the employees’ well-being especially working women. Against this backdrop, this study examined work-family balance of women working from home during covid-19 pandemic. Cross sectional research design was employed and data were collected via a survey of 126 from medical, education, banking, and finance and service sectors in Nigeria. The 126 women were selected using simple random sampling technique and data collected was analysed using simple percentage. The study revealed that women were satisfied by working remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic. The study recommends among others that organisations and government should develop and implement work-family balance policies that would promote the increasing use of remote working arrangement with special reference to working women.

Security Concerns of the Russian Federation and Türkiye's Position Within the Scope of Georgia Intervention to South Ossetia in 2008

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the geopolitical landscape in the South Caucasus, focusing on Russia's strategic interests, NATO and EU expansion efforts, and Turkey's role as a regional actor. It begins by examining Russia's "Near Environment" doctrine, emphasizing Moscow's perceived security threats and its proactive measures to maintain influence in its immediate surroundings. The 2008 conflict between Russia and Georgia serves as a focal point, illustrating the complex interplay of historical, ethnic, and political factors in the region. The article explores the origins of the Georgian-Ossetian crisis, the escalation into the "Five-Day War," and the subsequent recognition of South Ossetia and Abkhazia by Russia. It also examines Turkey's stance on the conflict, balancing support for Georgia's territorial integrity with economic and strategic interests in the region that advocates respect for Georgia's territorial integrity and sovereignty in the context of international law, but at the same time does not ignore its security concerns of Russia and aims to maintain a policy of balance in the Black Sea Basin and the Caucasus in the context of regional peacekeeping. Furthermore, the analysis highlights the international community's response to the conflict and its implications for regional stability. The conclusion underscores the significance of the South Caucasus in global geopolitics, particularly in shaping the balance of power in the Black Sea region. Overall, this article offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of conflict and cooperation in a strategically vital area of Eurasia.

Achieving sustainable development goals for mental health and gender equality through work-life balance and emotional intelligence

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between work-life balance and the mental health of Indian managers and to explore the moderating role of emotional intelligence (EI) and gender. Design/methodology/approach Work-life balance scale (Hayman 2005), Mental Health Inventory (Viet and Ware, 1983) and EI scale (Wong and Law, 2002) were administered to 202 (102 males and 100 females) Indian managers. Based on the Conservation of Resource theory, a theoretical model has been designed and hypotheses were tested by descriptive, correlation and moderation analysis. Findings The results of this study indicated that work-life balance is positively correlated with psychological well-being and mental health, while negatively correlated with the psychological distress of managers. EI has emerged as a potential moderator that positively influences the relationship between work-life balance and the mental health of managers. At the same time, gender did not show any moderating effect. Research limitations/implications This research has theoretical, practical as well as social implications. Practical implications This study is aligned with SDG 3 and SDG 5 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2023. This paper provides valuable inputs in promoting mental health at the workplace and formulating gender-neutral work-life balance policies and programs in Indian organizations. Social implications This study is aligned with SDG 3 (Health and well-being) and SDG 5 (Gender equality) of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2023. Originality/value This study is an empirical research paper backed by a sound theoretical framework, which addresses the work-life balance and mental health issues of managers and highlights the positive role of EI in managing their personal and professional lives in a low gender-egalitarian Indian work–family culture.

The Influence of Work-Life Balance Programs on Employee Loyalty

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry in Santa Rosa, Laguna, Philippines, faces persistent challenges in nurturing a resilient and committed workforce amidst evolving market dynamics. This study explores the impact of Work-Life Balance Programs on Employee Loyalty within this dynamic sector. Employing a quantitative causal-comparative research approach, data was collected from 150 BPO employees through structured questionnaires. Findings reveal a strong recognition of the positive influence of work support on family interactions, yet disparities exist in attitudes towards home obligations enrichment and clarity on work-life balance policies. Despite satisfaction with career progression, concerns arise regarding internal communication and management strategy. Nonetheless, employees demonstrate a commitment to the organization, underscoring the need for continuous reinforcement of its value proposition. Statistical analysis confirms the significant influence of Work-Life Balance Programs on employee loyalty. The study concludes that fostering mutual respect, supporting career growth, and prioritizing work-life balance are essential for enhancing employee satisfaction and loyalty. Recommendations include improving communication channels, fostering an ownership culture, and demonstrating corporate social responsibility through community engagement and wellness initiatives.

The Impact of Tourism on the Labor Market of Local Service Industries in Barcelona

This study examines the impact of tourism on the labor market of local service industries in Barcelona, focusing on employment trends, job quality, and economic implications. Utilizing quantitative data from the Spanish National Institute of Statistics and the Barcelona Tourism Board, the research reveals that tourism has significantly driven job creation in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transportation, with employment growth rates outpacing the city’s overall average. However, the predominance of part-time and temporary positions, coupled with lower wage levels, raises concerns about job stability and quality. Seasonal employment variations and spatial distribution analysis highlight the dependence of certain districts on tourism, leading to economic volatility and socio-economic challenges such as rising housing prices and cost of living. The study underscores the need for balanced policy approaches that enhance job security, improve labor conditions, and address housing affordability to ensure sustainable and inclusive economic growth. Recommendations include promoting year-round tourism, diversifying tourism offerings, and implementing regulatory measures to protect local residents’ quality of life.

Turkey’s Trust in the USA: Causes of the Criticised Alliance Member’s Approach

The article deals with Turkey's trust in the USA as its most important ally in NATO. Semi-structured interviews with Turkish academics and international relations experts during field research identified three main areas of Turkish mistrust in the USA – the Cyprus question, USA support for the PYD/YPG in Syria, and USA intervention in Turkish politics. The research results presented in the causal network show that the main cause of Turkish mistrust towards the USA is the factors leading to the phenomenon of fear of abandonment. That causes Turkey's increased need for independence from strategic partners and the subsequent increase in the application of a balance policy. The study concludes that one of the main reasons for Turkey's current attitude towards NATO is the need to ensure its security, and this need stems from Turkey's mistrust of the USA.