Governance Challenges Research Articles

How Polycentric Governance Affects Nature Conservation in Practice: The Case of Two Coastal Protected Areas in Suriname

This article focuses on the interactions between multi-level decision-making centers – local, national, international – in migratory species conservation in Suriname. Such multi-level interactions are crucial for transboundary conservation practices, but they have been researched very little by the scientific community so far, and not on Suriname at all. Moreover, although multi-level decision-making may differ per situation, it always poses governance and management challenges. To understand these, two Suriname case studies are analyzed in-depth: migratory shorebirds in the Bigi Pan Multiple Use Management Area and marine turtles in the Galibi Nature Reserve. A polycentric governance framework is used as an analytical lens, while a qualitative case study methodology is applied. The results of the analysis show that polycentric structures for the conservation of migratory species are currently only moderately in place and heavily dependent on donor finance. Yet, such vertical interactions are crucial for building connections – particularly among international NGOs, national governments and local communities – to achieve effective and legitimate conservation outcomes, irrespective of the presence or absence of donors. This paper, therefore, draws the following three key lessons for polycentric conservation efforts in the global South: (1) structural funding and alternative sources of income to donor money are crucial for transboundary conservation, (2) effective cooperation will require robust institution-building for enduring collective action, particularly at the local level, and (3) decision-making centers at all levels should be truly committed to a social-ecological approach of conservation, since a sole focus on biodiversity will not lead to legitimate results.

Preparing digital advancements in Pasteur Subdistrict cooperatives

The digital economy presents significant opportunities for cooperatives to improve their governance and achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG-s) 8, which promotes decent work and inclusive economic growth. As business entities based on economic democracy, cooperatives have the potential to drive the digital economy and enhance the well-being of their members. However, cooperatives in Pasteur, West Java, face various governance challenges, including inadequate bookkeeping, member arrears on savings and loans, and low digital literacy. These hinder the performance and development of the cooperatives. A series of training programs on cooperative governance and human resource management were designed to address these challenges. The program also aimed to improve the digital literacy of cooperative leaders and members and assist them in managing financial and operational aspects more transparently, accountably, and efficiently. The training program proved effective in enhancing the knowledge and skills of cooperative leaders and members in utilizing digital applications for good governance. This led to positive outcomes such as improved bookkeeping, increased savings and loan repayment rates, and more participative and transparent decision-making.

Adapting to climate change: the ultimate challenge for the next half-century of local government?

ABSTRACT Climate change will have a disproportionate and asymmetric impact on cities and urban areas, and some of their most vulnerable residents will be at particular risk. Studies have found that some municipalities have done far more to adapt to it than others, but there has been a general lack of funding, implementation and engagement with marginalised groups to help them prepare. We suggest that the unpredictable and evolving nature of climate impacts means that adaptation represents a defining public policy challenge for local governments in the coming decades. We set out the broad epistemological, practical and justice issues that this challenge presents for the practice and study of local government, and argue that addressing it will require new approaches that go beyond discrete and familiar solutions.

The Salesforce Einstein Trust Layer for Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) for Enterprise Applications

Generative AI has the potential to revolutionize the enterprise workflows to great extent but it poses privacy, security, and data governance challenges. Companies who want to utilize advanced AI models like Large Language Models, are only allowed to do so under the guidelines of security and regulatory frameworks. Salesforce Einstein Trust Layer proposes a solution to these challenges by not only setting up a trusted layer for deploying Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) models but also ensures that the data privacy standards are met while delivering the AI generated responses. This paper discusses how the Einstein Trust Layer facilitates the safe practical application of RAG in enterprise systems, including its general architecture, functionality, and the precise processes that demonstrate why the Einstein Trust Layer is a reliable means of incorporating LLMs into commercial processes. Keywords: Salesforce Einstein Trust Layer, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), Generative AI, Large Language Models (LLMs), Data Privacy, AI Governance, Enterprise AI, Data Masking, Toxicity Scoring, Dynamic Grounding, Zero-Data Retention, AI Compliance

Integrating ecosocial policies through polycentric governance: A study of the green transformation of Danish vocational education and training

AbstractHow can polycentric governance promote the development of ecosocial policies within existing policy systems? Through a study of green reforms of Danish vocational education, the paper argues that polycentric governance institutions are particularly useful at engaging constituent actors in innovation and constructive collaboration over reforming education programs to integrate ecological goals into vocational education. Combining significant autonomy for governance units and their nesting in a larger governance structure, polycentric governance helps address three key governance challenges: developing agreement among actors with clashing material interests about what green transformation entails; identifying how joint gains can be reached within a common vision of the development of the economy; and setting up an institutional structure that supports continuous adjustment to respond to technological advances and shifting social demands. Polycentric governance is, however, not a panacea. The state thus plays an important role in supporting autonomous governance units to develop ecosocial policies.

Towards Net-Zero Emissions from Urban Transport: Ex Post Policy Evaluation in Canberra, the Australian Capital Territory

The achievement of net-zero emissions is a major governmental challenge to ameliorate the adverse impacts of climate change, and to reduce the health risks associated with poor air quality. In Australia, the transport sector is a major contributor to particulate matter and greenhouse gas emissions, especially in urban areas. The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government recognises that one of the greatest sustainability challenges to achieving a carbon-neutral society with net-zero emissions is the transport sector because it contributes 60 percent of all emissions under its jurisdiction. The ACT is a suitable case study on climate change, energy policy, and transport emissions because its electricity is powered by renewable energy; its governance has included a continuous planning philosophy of integrating transport with land use. The methodology is based on identifying and summarising the international literature on net-zero emissions policy (n = 50), the relevant policy documents and reports by the Australian Government (n = 8) and by the ACT Government (n = 32). An appraisal of policy outcomes in the ACT is based on an analysis of quantitative and qualitative data. In a car-dependent city (77% of trips by private transport), the most realistic policies for achieving net-zero emissions are to encourage, through fiscal incentives and regulations, the adoption of electric vehicles for buses and private cars, electric or hydrogen vehicles for the commercial fleet, and regulations to phase out petrol- and diesel-powered vehicles.

'Monkeypox, where is your rage?': The racialization, sexualization, and securitization of global health

With the purposes of identifying the underlying challenges of global and public health governance of outbreaks, this paper explores three key themes that emerged in response to the 2022 mpox epidemic: the belated change of disease nomenclature from monkeypox to mpox; the classification of mpox as a sexually transmitted infection (STI); and the unpreparedness of health agencies to vaccinate impacted populations. The paper makes the case that, because of the global and public health tensions arising from racialized nomenclatures, sexualized classifications, biosecuritized borders, and monopolized vaccines, national and international agencies failed in providing an adequate and comprehensive response to the latest mpox pandemic, which contributed further to the pathologization of already vulnerable and stigmatized population groups.

The global implementation of UNDRIP: a thematic review

ABSTRACT Following almost 25 years of work, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2007. UNDRIP has been widely recognised as an authoritative statement of human rights norms concerning Indigenous peoples around the world. However, meaningful implementation of UNDRIP has been slow. To better understand the pace and challenges facing implementation, we identify and analyze four key recurring themes that emerge from the growing literature on this topic. This includes (1) Indigenous self-determination versus state autonomy as a driver of potential conflict; (2) the meaning of Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) in the context of UNDRIP; (3) the nexus between land, culture, and self-determination; and (4) Western/Global North influence over non-Western/Global South state implementation of UNDRIP. We examine several specific examples from across the globe to reveal the continuities and discontinuities across these four themes. The article concludes by offering ideas on how the limits of the present study and wider literature on UNDRIP might be rectified. That is, by incorporating a greater number of Indigenous perspectives on UNDRIP and adding more studies of governance and implementation challenges encountered in countries located in the Global South.

Sudan: Understanding the Dynamics of Terrorism and Conflict Management. A Multifaceted Approach

The research proposal aims to comprehensively examine terrorism and conflict manage ment dynamics in Sudan. It seeks to understand terrorism’s root causes, its interplay with conflict dynamics, and the effectiveness of current management strategies. Employing historical analysis, socio-political inquiry, and economic assessment, the study will explore Sudan’s historical context, identifying key turning points and socio-political dimensions such as governance challenges and identity politics. Additionally, the research will scrutinize terrorism’s economic underpinnings, in cluding illicit economies and external financing. It will evaluate terrorism’s impact on peacebuilding efforts, offering insights into effective conflict management strategies. Expected outcomes include a nuanced understanding of terrorism’s dynamics, actionable recommendations for policymakers, and contributions to peacebuilding efforts. By shedding light on these complexities, the study aims to aid in mitigating terrorism and fostering sustainable peace not only in Sudan but also globally. Keywords: Terrorism, conflict management, Sudan, Africa, dynamics, multifaceted approach, gov ernance, identity politics.

From Health Risks to Environmental Actions: Research on the Pathway of Guiding Citizens to Participate in Pocket-Park Governance

The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the demand for urban pocket parks near residential areas, posing new challenges for environmental governance. However, there is a lack of research on how to engage citizens in pocket-park governance to address both potential and unforeseen risks. This study combines social information processing theory with a norm activation model to develop a framework that identifies the shaping stages and influencing factors of citizens’ intentions to participate in pocket-park governance. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling, this research analyzed the relationships among external factors, attitudes, moral norms, and intentions to participate based on 719 responses from an online survey targeting Chinese citizens in November and December 2023. Results indicate that health risks and pocket-park environmental quality positively affect perceived usefulness. Attitudes and moral norms are indeed important factors mediating the positive effect of the external environment on the intention to participate. The pathway of guiding citizens to participate in pocket-park governance is clarified, which helps bolster the resilience of urban green spaces and improve the quality of life of residents after public crises.

Addressing the Challenges of Rural Local Governments: Perceptions of State Assistance

Addressing the Challenges of Rural Local Governments: Perceptions of State Assistance

Challenges of water environment governance in China: based on a qualitative comparative analysis approach

ABSTRACT As a developing country focused on water pollution control, understanding the mechanisms behind China's water environment governance challenges is crucial. This study uses fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fs/QCA) to develop a localized political-economic-social-technological (PEST) framework tailored to local governance realities, analyzing cases from the second round of Central Environmental Protection Inspection (CEPI). Two critical paths of local water governance challenges (CWEG) are identified: (1) In the 'government capacity constraints” path, stable yet limited official autonomy, combined with weak social supervision, obscures the institutional environment's empowering role and restricts local governance capacity, hindering environmental management effectiveness. (2) In the 'formalism in governance' path, a strong institutional environment, significant fiscal decentralization, robust digital infrastructure, green technology innovation, and low official turnover create a favorable governance environment. However, under the logic of avoiding accountability, formalism may emerge, posing challenges to effective water resource management.

Narrowing down the drivers of flood risk in medium-sized sub-Saharan African cities: insights from the Greater Kumasi Metropolitan Area, Ghana

ABSTRACT Literature on the drivers of flooding in sub-Saharan Africa is mostly focused on large and megacities, despite the majority of cities in the region being medium- and small-sized. We conducted a systematic review using 27 peer-reviewed scientific papers selected following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocols using the Greater Kumasi Metropolitan Area (GKMA), Ghana, as a case study, and validated the results in a workshop attended by 51 stakeholders. We found that the reported drivers of flood risk in GKMA are land cover changes (61.5%) (e.g. wetlands degradation); governance challenges (16.2%); challenges with drainage (13%); extreme rainfall (6.5%); and apathy towards nature (3.2%). We conclude that floods in GKMA are overwhelmingly human induced through unsustainable urbanization processes that are so rapid that city authorities are unable to properly control them. Also, a holistic understanding of flood risk is missing since majority of the included papers rather used qualitative methodologies.

Economic sanctions and trade dynamics: Analyzing U.S. unilateral and EU autonomous economic sanctions (1950–2019)

This study investigates the role of economic sanctions within contemporary national security strategies, focusing on their impact, motivations, and implications for sender states. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines qualitative and quantitative methodologies to comprehensively analyze unilateral and autonomous economic sanctions imposed by the U.S. and the EC/EU between 1950 and 2019. The comparative and descriptive analysis examines 97 sanctions episodes, including 60 unilateral U.S. sanctions and an original dataset of 37 EC/EU autonomous economic sanctions episodes. The findings reveal that economic sanctions imposed by both entities generally yield positive economic outcomes for sender states. Endogenous motivations such as economic security concerns, geopolitical interests, and domestic political considerations emerge as significant drivers behind the deployment of sanctions. Economic sanctions are perceived as a strategic tool serving political objectives while enhancing economic security of sender states. Tangible benefits, including strengthened negotiating positions and domestic support, underscore the instrumental role of sanctions in advancing sender states’ interests globally. In summary, this research contributes valuable­ insights into the complex dynamics of economic sanctions and their implications for sender states. The study offers pertinent guidance for policymakers­, scholars, and practitioners navigating global security and economic governance challenges by examining economic sanctions’ motivations, impacts, and implications within contempo­rary national security strategies.

Corporate Governance and Financial Performance: Family Firms vs. Non-Family Firms

The essence of a family business captures the distinguishing factors differentiating them from non-family businesses. Among these factors, the constructs of family firms’ managing and governance elements are perceived differently by non-family firms. This is especially important in a developing country such as South Africa (SA) with many governance challenges. The objectives of this study were, first, to identify relationships among financial performance, corporate governance, and ownership concentrations of listed family and non-family businesses in SA. Next, a comparison was made between the different ownership structures. Secondary data were collected using purposive sampling from 2015 to 2019. These data were analysed using panel data analysis and descriptive statistics. The results show that family firms place a greater emphasis on ownership concentration, board size, and board gender diversity, which have a significant relationship with financial performance. Only board size was significant to financial performance for non-family firms. The results indicate that family businesses should appoint female family members as directors on their boards, given the significance of gender-diverse boards for financial performance. Non-family businesses should also consider having smaller boards. Theoretically, this study expands on the literature regarding family businesses in SA. However, the findings cannot be generalised due to a single industry being selected. This study should be replicated in different industries to compare the results.

Integrating Sustainable Development Goals in local plans: Unlocking practices and challenges of local governments in Nepal

Local governments are pivotal in the implementation of sustainable development initiatives. However, the integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into local plans remains a significant challenge. In Nepal, there is an increasing recognition of the need to align local plans with the SDG framework to achieve holistic and inclusive development. This study explores the practices and challenges faced by local governments in integrating the SDGs into their plans, programs, and budgets. The qualitative case study method was adopted as a mode of inquiry. The findings reveal that local governments have yet to fully incorporate the SDG framework directly into their plans, programs, and budgets. They have yet to recognize the benefits of localization in effectively implementing and achieving the SDGs. Local governments face several challenges, including a lack of ownership, limited financial resources, insufficient SDG-friendly data, lack of institutional capacity, and weak coordination and cooperation. Despite these challenges, some local governments have formulated SDG-friendly periodic plans, while others are in the process of doing so. This study sheds light on the shift from an indirect to a direct approach in integrating the SDGs into local plans, programs, and budgets. This paper contributes to on-going efforts to promote sustainable development in Nepal by offering valuable insights to those involved in formulating and implementing local plans.

Working Paper 53: Good governance and the just transition

There is broad agreement that ensuring a just energy transition is key for achieving the trust and support from citizens needed to succeed with the green transition and the COP28 goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030. This paper discusses the concept of a just transition, with a particular focus on the importance of achieving a transition that benefits both local communities and society at large. It examines the governance and corruption challenges that could jeopardise this goal and discusses how industry associations and companies in the renewable energy sector could step up its efforts to address these challenges to realise the ambition of a just transition. The paper draws on lessons from the experience of tackling governance and corruption risks in the extractive sector and sets out proposals on how to accelerate collective action in the renewable energy sector. About this report This is a guest Working Paper of the Basel Institute on Governance, ISSN: 2624-9650. You may share or republish the report under a Creative Commons CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 licence. The contents are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Basel Institute on Governance, University of Basel or funding organisations. Suggested citation: de Vibe, Maja, and Mark Robinson. 2024. ‘Good governance and the just transition: Implications for renewable energy companies.’ Working Paper 53, Basel Institute on Governance. Available at: baselgovernance.org/publications/wp-53.

Analysing institutional responses towards disaster risk reduction: challenges and antecedents

Globally, the frequency and magnitude of weather-related hazards poses significant challenges for governments and the private and the not-for-profit sectors. This paper provides exploratory insight into the challenges that hinder institutional responses to risk reduction. This study specifically considered public sector organisations within disaster risk reduction (DRR) organisational fields. The paper identifies 3 major constraints, which include fragmentation, difficulties in using risk information and cultural identities that affect public sector organisations and community responses. To analyse these issues, an institutional theory lens was used to explain the antecedents under which institutional actors may respond based on events and stakeholder expectations and demands. The findings suggest that challenges hindering response to risks and emergencies are strategic, institutional or operational in nature. A selection of public sector organisations response initiatives is presented within an Australian context with analysis of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2023 Priority 4. Recommendations and further research to identify and address other institutional constraints and sectors are recommended.

Analisis Reformasi Tata Kelola Administrasi Pemerintahan (Studi Kasus Provinsi Jawa Barat)

The challenges of governance in the era of globalization are becoming increasingly complex, particularly in West Java Province, which faces public demands for efficiency, transparency, and accountability in public services. Although governance reforms have been implemented, obstacles such as complex bureaucracy, a lack of accountability, and rapid socio-economic changes continue to impact service quality. This study aims to analyze the impact of administrative governance reforms on the efficiency of public services. The main focus of this research is on the changes in transparency and public participation resulting from the implemented reforms, as well as the primary challenges faced in their implementation, including bureaucratic obstacles and technology adoption. The research employs a qualitative approach. Data were collected through 30 in-depth interviews with 10 government officials, 10 business actors, and 10 members of the general public. Additionally, focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted involving 8-12 participants to gain deeper insights into their experiences related to governance reforms. Data analysis was performed using a thematic approach. The findings indicate that governance reforms in West Java Province have accelerated public administrative services, particularly through digitalization, which has reduced processing times for permits. However, challenges remain, such as limitations in human resources and technology, resistance to change among civil servants, and discrepancies in policy implementation across regions. Therefore, enhancing employee training and simplifying bureaucratic procedures are essential to ensure the sustainability of these reforms.

A governance and risk management framework for project management in the oil and gas industry

The oil and gas industry operates in an environment marked by high risks, complex regulations, and significant financial investments. Effective project management in this sector requires a robust governance and risk management framework to address operational, regulatory, financial, and environmental challenges. This review proposes a comprehensive governance and risk management framework tailored specifically to the unique needs of oil and gas projects. The framework integrates governance structures that define clear roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes, ensuring that projects align with corporate objectives and compliance standards. Central to this framework is a risk management model that identifies, assesses, and mitigates potential project risks. The model emphasizes continuous risk monitoring, utilizing advanced technologies such as predictive analytics, AI, and digital twins to forecast risks and optimize decision-making. Additionally, it advocates for proactive stakeholder engagement strategies to ensure alignment among diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, investors, and local communities. The governance aspect of the framework promotes transparency, accountability, and sustainability, ensuring that projects meet both operational goals and regulatory requirements. It also introduces agile project management techniques to enhance flexibility and responsiveness throughout the project lifecycle. By integrating technological tools like blockchain for contract management and AI for predictive maintenance, the framework addresses both governance and risk management challenges. Ultimately, the review serves as a guide for oil and gas companies to enhance project efficiency, minimize risks, and meet the demands of an increasingly complex industry landscape.