Income Gap Research Articles

Research on the Impact of Digital Inclusive Financial Development on the Income Gap between Urban and Rural Residents in Henan Province

This paper begins with an introduction of what digital inclusive finance is; it immediately describes and analyzes the development of digital inclusive finance in Henan, and analyzes the status of disposable incomes of urban and rural residents in Henan from 2011-2021; secondly, based on the digital inclusive finance index released by Peking University from 2011-2021, and based on the panel data of the corresponding years and prefectural cities of Henan Province, it applies the Stata software, through econometric regression and other methods, to empirically analyze the relationship between the development of digital inclusive finance and the income differences between urban and rural residents, to explore the intrinsic relationship between the development of digital inclusive finance and the income differences between urban and rural residents, and to meticulously examine the impact of the coverage, depth of use, and degree of digitalization of digital inclusive finance on the income differences between urban and rural residents. Through the empirical analysis, it is found that the index of digital inclusive finance development has a significant effect on the reduction of the income gap between urban and rural residents, in which the index of the degree of digital inclusive finance digitization has a greater impact on the reduction of the gap between urban and rural residents' incomes.

On Population and the International Order

AbstractThis essay expores demographic effects on the international order over the postwar decades and potentially through the next half‐century. Such effects derive from the relative sizes of populations and labor forces among states, contrasts in age distributions (resulting from the regionally staggered timing of fertility decline), and high levels of international migration, fueled by economic disparities and civil conflict. In coming decades, differential population growth and aging—in some states, entrenchment of population decline—will shift the global distribution of labor away from East Asia and Europe and toward South and West Asia and especially Africa. Short‐range migration may be pressed by environmental change; longer‐range migration toward rich countries, much of it illicit and already an intractable public policy issue in many of them, will face increased societal resistance and stronger efforts to police entry. The future international order will see a states system with the Global North further demographically marginalized; India as an emerging economic‐demographic superpower, joining a fast‐aging China and plausibly a less internationally engaged United States; and a demographically dominant Africa with as yet a wholly unclear place in the global political economy. Although not part of standard demographic projections, there are extreme global warming scenarios and other disaster eventualities that could be radically transformative of this order.

The challenges, opportunities and future of comparative physiology in the Global South: perspectives of early-career researchers.

Researchers in the Global South (GS, developing countries) make valuable contributions to the field of comparative physiology, but face economic and scientific disparities and several unique challenges compared with colleagues in the Global North (developed countries). This Perspective highlights some of the challenges, knowledge gaps and disparities in opportunity faced by GS researchers, especially those at early-career stages. We propose collaborative solutions to help address these issues, and advocate for promoting investment and cultural and societal change for a more inclusive research community. Additionally, we highlight the role of GS researchers in contributing expert knowledge on local biodiversity and the environment; this knowledge can help to shape the future of comparative physiology, allowing us to achieve a better understanding of the evolution of physiological mechanisms and to develop innovative solutions to environmental and biomedical challenges. With this Perspective, we hope to highlight the need to foster a more diverse, equitable and inclusive research landscape in comparative physiology; one that empowers GS scientists to address the global challenges associated with biodiversity loss, climate change and environmental pollution.

Challenges Faced by People with Learning Difficulties Two Years after the COVID-19 Outbreak

Abstract: Background: Learning difficulties are often accompanied by additional challenges in physical and mental health, as well as psychological, neurodevelopmental and medical conditions. In such a situation, crises such as the epidemic of COVID-19, which caused significant economic and social disparities can double the problems. To fully understand the wide-ranging impact of school closures, the transition to online education, and the recognition and support of mental health concerns, it is crucial that we carefully examine the lasting effects of the pandemic. Methods: The literature review played a crucial role in providing background information for this study. To gather academic literature, we extensively searched the PubMed and Scopus databases, including terms: “COVID-19” AND (“learning” OR “learning disorder” OR “learning disability”). From initially n = 173 studies only n = 64 studies remained for the literature review. Discussion: We present a comprehensive strategy to address the deleterious effects of Covid-19 on learning difficulties. The disparities faced by people with learning difficulties across different socio-economic groups increased after the pandemic. Individuals with learning difficulties often experience unique mental health challenges that require tailored support. Providing professional assistance is crucial to ensuring academic success for students with learning difficulties, as it allows us to fully consider the significant changes in education and tailor our support accordingly. This will empower them to surpass their obstacles and flourish in their efforts.

The Social Determinants of Suicide among Female Service Members and Veterans : Running Title: Social Determinants of Suicide.

Evaluate the social determinants of health (SDOH) associated with suicidality among female Service Members and Veterans (SMV) in Arizona. Used data from a statewide Arizona Veteran Survey (n = 1,134) to analyze SDOH associated with suicidality (any self-report of suicidal ideation, suicide attempt, or calling a crisis line). Response data were cross-tabulated and analyzed for statistical significance using a chi-square test with a p-value of p < 0.05. Depression, disability, barriers to treatment, housing instability, feelings of loneliness, and more were associated with increased suicidality among respondents. Substance use within the last 30 days, social support, and Veteran social support were not found to be significantly associated with suicidality. Female SMV populations experiencing social, economic, and health disparities appear to be at higher risk for suicide. These findings suggest that future suicide prevention efforts may be more effective if tailored towards populations in need of additional support and social services.

The black-white lifetime earnings gap

The average white male born in 1900 earned 2.6 times more labor income over their lifetime than the average Black male. This gap is nearly twice as large as the more commonly studied cross-sectional Black-white earnings gap because 48% of Black males born in 1900 died before the age of 30 as compared to just 26% of white males. We calibrate a model of optimal consumption in a world with mortality risk to data describing the life-cycle earnings and survival probabilities of Black and white males born between 1900 and 1970. We find that convergence in Black and white mortality rates led to a 50% reduction in Black-white welfare gaps between the 1900 and 1920 birth cohorts, even as cross-sectional Black-white income gaps for those cohorts remained relatively constant. However, the Black-white welfare gap stagnated for the 1920 to 1970 birth cohorts as gaps in Black-white life expectancy and income remained stable and large.

Research on the Current Development and Strategy of Rural E-Commerce in Chinas Digital Market-Oriented Economy

The rapid advancement of e-commerce has introduced numerous challenges, particularly regarding the rural-urban divide, marked by disparities in income and resource distribution. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensure sustained growth in this sector. This paper examines the current state of rural e-commerce through secondary data analysis, noting the dichotomy of positive and negative impacts, with a particular focus on Taobao Village as a case study. While existing literature has extensively reviewed the benefits and drawbacks of e-commerce, this paper concentrates on the primary threats and underlying causes affecting rural areas. Notably, the digital divide and skill deficiencies emerge as significant obstacles. The digital divide highlights the gap between those with access to technology and those without, while skill deficiencies refer to the lack of necessary technical skills among rural populations to effectively engage with e-commerce platforms. To address these challenges, the paper proposes several practical solutions. These include increased financial investment in digital infrastructure and targeted training programs to enhance technological skills among rural residents. Additionally, efforts to change attitudes towards technology, particularly among those resistant to electronic devices, are crucial for fostering a more inclusive digital economy. Overall, the paper underscores the need for government intervention to mitigate the potential threats posed by e-commerce, ensuring that the benefits are equitably distributed and the industry continues to flourish.

A comparative model for financial advisory standardization in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa

The development of a theoretical model for harmonizing local and international product standards for Nigerian exports Financial inclusion remains a significant challenge in Nigeria and across Sub-Saharan Africa, with millions of individuals, particularly in rural areas, lacking access to formal financial systems. Financial advisory services play a critical role in addressing this challenge by helping individuals understand and effectively use financial products such as savings, credit, and investments. However, the lack of standardization in the delivery of these advisory services has hindered their effectiveness, resulting in inconsistent practices and limited reach, especially among the unbanked population. This review proposes a comparative model for the standardization of financial advisory services in Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan African countries. It seeks to examine the current landscape of financial advisory services, comparing Nigeria’s approach with successful models in countries such as Kenya, Ghana, and South Africa. The model emphasizes key components of standardization, including financial literacy programs, digital advisory platforms, and microfinance initiatives, which are critical to reaching underserved communities. By analyzing case studies, such as Kenya’s M-Pesa platform, which has significantly advanced financial inclusion through mobile money and advisory services, the review identifies best practices that can be adapted to Nigeria’s context. The comparative analysis highlights the importance of leveraging technology, particularly mobile platforms, to provide accessible and scalable financial advisory services. It also underscores the need for public-private partnerships, regulatory support, and tailored programs that address the unique socioeconomic and cultural characteristics of Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan countries. While digital infrastructure remains a challenge in rural areas, the success of mobile banking and advisory platforms in countries like Ghana demonstrates that technology can play a transformative role in financial inclusion. Challenges such as cultural resistance, economic disparities, and infrastructure gaps are discussed, emphasizing the need for a flexible yet standardized approach to advisory services. Additionally, the review outlines the critical role of regulatory frameworks in ensuring that financial advisory services are consistent, transparent, and accessible to all segments of the population. The review advocates for a standardized advisory model tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs, drawing lessons from successful models across Sub-Saharan Africa. Such standardization, supported by regulatory reforms and technology integration, has the potential to bridge the financial inclusion gap, empowering individuals and fostering economic growth. The review also calls for regional collaboration in Sub-Saharan Africa to promote knowledge-sharing and create unified strategies for advancing financial inclusion across the continent.

The Urgent Call for Academic Action: Rebooting SDGs to Reset Our Future

This manuscript, presented at GEEF2024, emphasizes the critical role of academia in revitalizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address current global challenges. The SDGs, adopted in 2015, aim to eradicate poverty and promote sustainable development by 2030. However, progress has stalled due to financial constraints, governance issues, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical crises such as the Russian–Ukraine war. The COVID-19 pandemic has had multifaceted impacts, reversing poverty reduction trends and disrupting education and energy investments. It has also exacerbated social inequalities, leading to the conceptualization of COVID-19 as a syndemic, an ecodemic, and an econodemic. These terms highlight the pandemic's complex interplay with preexisting health issues, environmental degradation, and economic disparities. Geopolitical crises have further hindered SDG progress by disrupting food and energy supplies and diverting resources from sustainable development initiatives. Climate change, marked by unprecedented heatwaves and natural disasters, poses additional threats to achieving the SDGs. The need for carbon neutrality and effective international cooperation is more urgent than ever before. In this context, universities play a crucial role in advancing the SDGs through research, innovation, and community engagement. Engaged universities align their research agendas with the SDGs, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and developing solutions to global challenges. Yonsei University's Institute for Global Engagement and Empowerment (IGEE) exemplifies this approach with its Yonsei SDGs Initiative. By analyzing research outputs via natural language processing, the initiative aligns academic activities with SDGs, particularly in health and well-being. The GEEF2024 conference underscored the importance of innovative strategies and international cooperation in achieving the SDGs. Discussions highlighted the need to address mental health crises, low birth rates, and the care economy's undervaluation. The conference also emphasized the necessity of inclusive development strategies that reflect the perspectives and priorities of Africa and Asia.In conclusion, universities must integrate social engagement into their core missions to remain relevant and impactful. By prioritizing research, teaching, and services that contribute to sustainable development, academia can play a pivotal role in overcoming global challenges and achieving the SDGs.

Social Actors’ Representations in Newspaper Headlines on Domestic Violence against Men and Women in Sub-Saharan, Africa

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue in Sub-Saharan Africa, shaped by socio-cultural norms, economic disparities, and systemic inequalities. Media representations of domestic violence, particularly through newspaper headlines, play a significant role in shaping public perceptions and responses to this pressing societal issue. This study conducts a comparative analysis of social actors’ representation in newspaper headlines of domestic violence against men and women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through a discursive analysis, the paper explores the representation of the victims, perpetrators, and authorities, across various newspapers within the regions. The findings from the analysis of headlines in three African regions show a pronounced media focus on victims rather than perpetrators in the headlines. Additionally, the inclusion of OTHERS enriches the narrative, with Western Africa showing the highest. Furthermore, the analysis reveals distinct patterns in role allocation, with perpetrators often depicted as active agents and conversely, sometimes represented as passive agents, shifting the narrative to victims' experiences and suffering. The study also highlights regional differences, with Eastern Africa less frequently activating perpetrators in headlines. Finally, the use of nomination, categorization, and collectivization in headlines adds depth, emphasizes collective efforts, and highlights the prevalence of domestic violence, although sometimes at the expense of individual experiences. Keywords: media representations, social actors, domestic violence, men and women

Effect of Economic Policies on Income Inequality: A Comparative Study of Switzerland and Bolivia

Purpose: The aim of the study was to examine the effect of economic policies on income inequality: a comparative study of Switzerland and Bolivia. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Switzerland, with its advanced economy, implements progressive tax policies, robust social welfare programs, and equitable education systems, contributing to relatively low income inequality. In contrast, Bolivia, a developing nation, faces challenges in reducing income inequality due to less effective economic policies, limited social safety nets, and a larger informal sector. The study underscores that while Switzerland's policies effectively mitigate income disparities, Bolivia's efforts are hindered by structural economic issues and policy limitations. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Kuznets curve theory, the human capital theory &amp; the social stratification theory may be used to anchor future studies of climate change on risk management practices in agriculture in Switzerland. From a practical perspective, the study provides actionable insights for improving the design and implementation of economic policies. The study offers several policy recommendations for both developed and developing economies. Policymakers in Switzerland should consider revising tax policies to address the increased burden on higher-income individuals and improve the overall equity of the system.

Reexamining gender inequality in accessing resources and education stance in reducing masculine gender hegemony in Nigeria

The role of education in abolishing cultural practices that encourage gender inequality needs consistent evaluation for inclusive, responsive policy development and implementation in a dynamic society. Eliminating masculine gender hegemony may result in attainment of international commitments like gender equality and poverty eradication. Reexamining the role of education in reducing gender inequality in patriarchal societies can highlight critical issues needing policy actions for attainment of sustainable development goals. The objectives of the study were to examine effects of education on marital and family life, income and access to land resources by male and female, as well as the effects of education on girl child education. The hypotheses that guided the study were: parents' education attainment increases girl child education opportunity; education attainment reduces male-female income gap and education attainment increases women access to land. The study was conducted in Southwest Nigeria. Multi-stage sampling procedure was used to collect primary data from 720 households using a well-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Pearson Correlation tests. Results showed significant disparity among men, women, girls and boys education attainments. Significantly, male have more access to land and other resources than female. The work discussed implications of the existing gender disparity despite efforts to bridge the gap and noted effects of education in reducing the gaps and ensuring gender equality. The paper is optimistic that terminating gender inequality as education policy can significantly improve girl child education, reduce girls' marriages, improve marital life, increase females’ income and access to information as well as land resources.

Impact of Rural E-Commerce on Farmers’ Income and Income Gap

Rural e-commerce, as a new form of digital economy, is of great significance in promoting the income of rural households and realizing common prosperity. Based on the 2021 China Rural Revitalization Survey (CRRS), the impact of rural e-commerce on farmers’ income and the intra-rural income gap is explored using quantile regression. The results found that (1) rural e-commerce can effectively promote the level of farm household income and alleviate the intra-rural income disparity, with this finding still holding after addressing the potential endogeneity problem and conducting robust-type tests. (2) Rural e-commerce has the most pronounced income-generating effect on low-income households in the southern region; participation in rural e-commerce has a more “center-expanding” effect on households in the secondary education and high material capital groups. (3) Saving production and operation costs, shortening the product circulation chain, and improving access to information are channels through which rural e-commerce affects households’ income. It is recommended to actively promote the deep integration and development of rural e-commerce in rural areas, establish a sound mechanism for bridging the “digital divide”, encourage e-commerce “leaders” to build a perfect industrial chain, and guide smallholders to integrate into the rural e-commerce industrial chain to enjoy the digital dividend.

The Impact of Digital Finance on the Urban–Rural Income Gap in China: The Mediating Role of Employment Structural Transformation

The Impact of Digital Finance on the Urban–Rural Income Gap in China: The Mediating Role of Employment Structural Transformation

The impact of innovation on intra-city economic disparity: a technological complexity perspective

ABSTRACT As innovation progresses, the overall complexity of technological inventions also grows, impacting the spatial effects of innovation. This study, utilizing data from 281 Chinese cities from 2005 to 2020 and employing panel threshold regression, re-evaluates the impact of innovation on regional disparities from the perspective of technological complexity. Initially, the paper introduces a nonlinear iteration method to generate two metrics: innovation complexity for assessing regional innovation and technological complexity for assessing patent quality. Subsequently, the study incorporates technological complexity into the theoretical framework of spillover and siphoning effects, exploring its impact on intra-city economic disparity. The results reveal: (1) Overall, innovation in Chinese cities contributes to alleviating intra-city economic disparity. However, this effect is nonlinear, gradually diminishing as innovation increases. (2) The study empirically supports the statement innovation in high-complexity technologies plays a smaller role in reducing regional disparities than innovation in low-complexity technologies. (3) We also examine how geographic factors moderate the effects of innovation of varying complexities on economic disparity, finding that increasing geographic barriers can result in opposite moderating effects on high-complexity and low-complexity innovation. Our research implies that the ongoing evolution of innovation towards domains with higher technological complexity potentially threatens balanced regional development.

Rethinking Income Inequality: A Search for the Optimal Distribution

The United Nations’ ambitious 2030 Agenda, adopted in September 2015, outlines 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with the overarching aim of eradicating poverty and hunger. This agenda represents an unprecedented opportunity to address global challenges. However, one crucial aspect, achieving an appropriate level of income disparity (income inequality), remains a significant hurdle for both academics and policymakers. This research gap necessitates a deeper exploration of the theoretical underpinnings of an optimal income distribution for a given population size. This study delves into this under-researched area by analysing the World Bank’s data on population size and the Gini coefficient (a metric for income inequality) for 103 countries (most recent year data available, up to 2023). The analysis employs regression techniques to unveil the relationship between the Gini coefficient and the natural logarithm of population size. The findings suggest a non-linear association, best characterized by a second-degree polynomial function. This implies that the relationship between population size and optimal income distribution is not a simple linear one. Furthermore, the estimated results indicate that the majority of countries in the sample exhibit Gini coefficients that deviate significantly from their theoretically optimal levels. This finding presents valuable insights for policymakers as they design and implement public policies aimed at achieving a more equitable income distribution. The subsequent section delves into a detailed case study of India, analysing its Gini coefficient and the extent of its deviation from the estimated optimal level.

Integration of livelihood support with MHPSS in rehabilitation of torture survivors in LMICs: Addressing poverty and mental health dynamics.

The integration of livelihood support with mental health and psycho-social support (MHPSS) seems crucial for the rehabilitation of torture survivors in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This study aimed to explore the intersec-tionality of poverty and mental health, and the integration of livelihood support with-in MHPSS frameworks related to the rehabilitation of torture survivors in LMICs. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire distributed to members of the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT) in LMICs (n=25). The questionnaire explored the perception of IRCT centres in LMIC countries regard-ing the extent to which poverty contributes to poor mental health outcomes among torture sur-vivors and the effectiveness of integrating livelihood support into MHPSS interventions. The study highlighted the significant economic challenges faced by torture survivors, indicating a high prevalence of extreme poverty among this group. The study found that 92% of respondents believed that poverty and mental health outcomes of torture survivors are strongly linked. Eco-nomic and social inequalities were identified as key determinants of mental health, emphasizing the need to address these inequalities in rehabilitation programs for torture survivors. The study underscores the critical connection between poverty, mental health, and the experience of torture. In the view of most IRCT centres, the integration of livelihood support with MHPSS is essential for addressing economic disparities and promoting long-term resilience among survivors. The results highlight the need to conduct long-term longitudinal studies that provide support to this perception. The study recommends enhancing coordination among stakeholders, addressing cultural and social barriers, securing sustainable funding, and developing strategies to integrate livelihood support with MHPSS for torture survivors. According to participants, rehabilitation programmes should include economic empowerment, mental health support, and social integration, to contribute to a holistic recovery, long-term resilience, and overall well-being.

How Farm Machinery Rental Services and Off-Farm Work Affect Household Income in China

(1) Background: Most nations struggle to close significant income gaps between high and low earners. While the adoption of farm machinery rental services and off-farm employment may be beneficial, it is unclear whether jointly applying both approaches can raise income levels in rural households or help narrow the income gap within the farm sector. This study investigated scenarios involving both participation in farm machinery rental markets and in off-farm work, analyzing their varied impacts on household incomes based on survey data from 1027 rice producers in rural China. (2) Methods: We employed a two-stage econometric procedure encompassing a bivariate ordered probit model with an endogeneity-corrected unconditional quantile regression model. (3) Results: Rice farmers often simultaneously rent farm machinery services and engage in off-farm work. Both activities positively affect their household incomes; however, these effects vary across different income levels. Renting farm machinery provides greater marginal benefits for lower-income households, while off-farm employment has a stronger impact on higher-income households. Farm machinery rental services appear to benefit disadvantaged households more than off-farm employment opportunities do. (4) Suggestions: To enhance the welfare of lower-income households, policymakers should focus on expanding access to farm machinery rental services.

Where West Meets East: Culture and Preferred Leader Behavior in Poland A and Poland B

Geographically and politically, Poland is a Central European country traditionally divided into two regions located to the west and east of the Vistula River. This division has come to be known as Poland A and Poland B. Despite ongoing debates over the past decade regarding the political and economic disparities between these regions, there has been a notable absence of research exploring their cultural distinctions. To address this gap, this study analyzed the cultural variances between these regions, as well as differences in preferred leadership behaviors among individuals born before and after the transition year of 1989. Through multivariate analyses of variances (MANOVA) tests conducted on a sample of 266 respondents, our research unveiled significant differences in several cultural dimensions and leadership styles, partially confirming our initial hypotheses. We discuss these findings in the context of existing research on Polish culture within cross-cultural and international business literature.

Does greater filial piety bring more gender income advantages? Exploring the influence of traditional Chinese filial piety on the gender wage gap

PurposeBased on traditional Chinese filial piety, this article examines the impacts and mechanisms of the two-dimensional filial piety concept “Qinqin – Zunzun” on gender wages in China via China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) conducted in 2014 and 2018.Design/methodology/approachThis article construct regression models to examine the relationship between filial piety concepts and wages. Also, it uses unconditional quantile regression and decomposition to explore the impact of filial piety concepts on the wage gap.FindingsIt is found that: (1) The effects of two-dimensional filial piety are heterogeneous in terms of gender. Specifically, authoritarian filial piety significantly suppresses individual wages and has a stronger suppressive effect on women’s wages, whereas affinity filial piety significantly enhances individual wages without gender heterogeneity; (2) Parents' time support in the intergenerational exchange model is a crucial mechanism by which filial piety affects wages, exhibiting significant gender heterogeneity; (3) Regarding wage distribution, authoritarian filial piety mainly widens the gender income gap in the low and middle income-groups, while affinity filial piety narrows the gender wage gap by “raising the floor”, with its converging effect being most significant in the middle and high-income groups. This article deepens the understanding of the gender wage gap and intergenerational income mobility, providing policy references for better utilizing the social governance function of culture.Originality/valueThe article deepens the understanding and mechanisms of the gender wage gap and inter-generational income mobility, providing policy reference for better utilizing the social governance function of culture.