National Diversity Research Articles

Intellectual property rights in regional trade agreements: balancing economic and political interests in the EU and RCEP

Abstract Subject and purpose of work In the contemporary global economy, regional trade agreements (RTAs) and economic multilateral frameworks are crucial for establishing comprehensive norms and standards that enhance international trade, including the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR). This paper examines the role of IPR coherence in fostering trade and innovation, focusing on the European Union (EU) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Materials and methods Through a comparative analysis, the paper provides insights into the complex dynamics between developed and developing regions, emphasizing the importance of harmonized IPR standards for a more inclusive and integrated global market. Results The EU, with its stringent regulatory standards, contrasts with the more flexible IPR approaches of the diverse Asia-Pacific nations in RCEP. The study explores the necessity and benefits of harmonizing these IPR frameworks to improve trade relations and stimulate innovation. It highlights China’s pragmatic strategy in aligning its evolving IP regulations with international standards while accommodating the needs of ASEAN countries. Conclusions The findings suggest pathways for enhancing IP protection standards and fostering mutual economic growth and innovation.

PERAN GURU TERHADAP SIKAP TOLERANSI BERAGAMA PADA ANAK USIA DINI DI TK PERTIWI METRO PUSAT

Diverse nation, with various religions and beliefs. Early childhood education covers 6 aspects of development that are very important in shaping a child's personality, including an understanding of religious tolerance. At Pertiwi Metro Kindergarten, which has students from various religious backgrounds, teachers play a key role in educating, directing and instilling the values ​​of tolerance, The research method used is a qualitative approach with a descriptive type. Sources of research data include Pertiwi Metro Pusat Kindergarten teachers. Data collection techniques are interviews and documentation and observation. The data analysis techniques used are data condensation, data presentation and conclusion drawing. Test the validity of the data using triangulation of sources, techniques and time.The research results show that teachers at Pertiwi Metro Kindergarten play an important role in instilling the values ​​of religious tolerance in early childhood. They develop a curriculum that emphasizes the values ​​of tolerance through stories, songs and routine class activities, as well as being role models in everyday behavior. An inclusive learning environment is created so that every child feels accepted regardless of religious background, and communication with parents is established to strengthen the understanding of tolerance at home. This school integrates religious activities according to each child's beliefs and regularly evaluates the tolerance program through observation and feedback from parents. Despite the challenges of diversity in family backgrounds, schools overcome them with training for teachers and dialogue with parents. As a result, children at Pertiwi Metro Kindergarten show a better understanding of religious differences and mutual respect, forming the basis for a harmonious society in the future. This research also highlights the importance of collaboration between teachers and parents, as well as an integrated learning approach that includes activities for Muslim and non-Muslim children, in creating an inclusive environment that respects religious diversity

EMBRACING DIVERSITY: THE ROLE OF MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION IN MITIGATING ETHNIC CONFLICT & FOSTERING UNITY IN PAKISTAN

This paper aims to analyze and synthesize whether multicultural education can serve as a means of easing the ethnic conflict and cultural diversity in Pakistan. The ethnic diversity of nations, languages, and cultures has been a strength and, simultaneously, a weakness due to conflicts. This study submits that it is possible to coordinate multicultural education in schools and make it important tool for improving understanding amid different communities. This paper relies on the review of current policies concerning the education systems and proposals drawn from case studies of multicultural societies to provide an understanding of the way forward for Pakistan in responding to the multicultural realities in its education systems that how incorporating multicultural perspectives into the curriculum can help students appreciate different cultures and reduce biases. According to studies, minimization of conflict amid different forms of identities is possible by adopting presented cultural-structural model, that may boost positive attitude toward multiple Pakistani identities and promote the enhancement of the social cohesion in the country.

Observational study of close contact behaviors in a multinational graduate student office

Understanding human contact behavior plays a crucial role in improving the design of indoor environments, for example, by enhancing thermal comfort, workplace performance and productivity, and controlling infection transmission. Although baseline information for indoor environmental design is available, data on person-to-person contact behavior are limited, especially in populations of diverse nationalities, genders, and age ranges. In this study, we used high-resolution video cameras to collect close contact data for five consecutive school days in a multinational graduate school student office in Japan with a reserved cultural background. We characterized human close-contact behavior using stochastic interactions in terms of interpersonal distance, assortativity, posture, duration, and frequency of contact in a multinational population. Our results showed a remarkable difference compared to the study results from person-to-person contact behavior in an ethnically homogenous population. The interpersonal distance averaged 0.75 m, and the close contact frequency was notably lower, but the close contact duration was significantly longer. Nationality showed stronger homophily. We considered the degree centrality measures of the nodes in the observed networks. The observed contact network links were dense with high reciprocity. High contact heterogeneity was observed in twenty-five percent of the nodes. These data can be used to improve targeted epidemiological analyses for indoor occupant health decision-making, and infection spread prevention strategies.

Corporate governance and firm performance in Vietnam: The moderating role of digital transformation

This study examines the interplay between corporate governance mechanisms and firm performance in the Vietnamese context, with a particular focus on the moderating role of digital transformation. Utilizing a sample of 150 Vietnamese firms in 2023, the study employs a GMM approach to analyze the relationship between board characteristics (size, independence, duality, gender diversity, meeting frequency, and nationality diversity), digital transformation, and firm performance, proxied by ROA, ROE, and EPS. The findings reveal that board size and CEO duality positively influence firm performance. Notably, the positive impact of gender diversity on performance is amplified by digital transformation. While digital transformation exhibits a standalone positive effect on performance, its moderating role on other governance mechanisms is mixed. These results underscore the importance of effective corporate governance practices, particularly in the context of digital transformation, for enhancing firm performance in the Vietnamese market.

Exploring the Health Impact of Intersectional Minority Identity Stressors on Arab Sexual Minority Women Migrants to the United States.

Using an intersectionality lens and the minority stress theory as our theoretical grounding, this qualitative study is the first to examine the mental health of Arab sexual minority women (SMW) migrants to the United States. The study aimed to (1) explore the perceptions and experiences of intersectional minority identity-related life stressors and (2) discern their impact on the mental health of first-generation Arab SMW migrants. From December 2022 to March 2023, we conducted 20 semi-structured interviews with Arab SMW migrants. Guided by principles of community engagement in research, four community advisors, including three Arab SMW migrants and a mental health service provider, assisted in mock interviews, recruitment, and data analysis. This enriched our thematic analysis providing a nuanced understanding of Arab SMW migrant experiences. Participants reflected diverse nationalities, socioeconomic statuses, and religions and identified as lesbian, bisexual, or queer. Our sample included asylum seekers, documented migrants, and non-binary individuals (assigned female at birth). Findings revealed three major themes: (1) Community- and Interpersonal-Level Stressors, (2) Strategies for Coping with Stressors, and (3) Impact of Intersectional Life Stressors on Mental Health. Community- and interpersonal-level stressors included challenges navigating migration-related stressors, rejection and discrimination from the Arab, queer, and dominant-group (i.e., non-Arab, non-White) communities, and experiences of invalidation of their intersectional identities. Coping mechanisms included avoidance, identity concealment, and seeking social support. Participants reported various mental health impacts, from anxiety, depression to suicidal thoughts, emphasizing the urgency for tailored interventions. Participants called for the development of support groups specifically for Arab SMW migrants.

Modelling cybersecurity impacts on digital payment adoption: A game theoretic approach

The pervasive adoption of digital payment systems globally is a crucial development, shaping the financial landscapes of diverse nations. However, this surge in adoption has precipitated a concerning rise in cybercrimes. This prompts users to reassess preferred payment modes and occasionally leads to a shift back to traditional cash transactions. Given the central role of digital payments in steering the digital economy’s growth and their profound impact on a country’s gross domestic product, the imperative to augment the number of digital payment users becomes increasingly compelling. In response to this imperative, this article introduces a game theoretical model to comprehend how digital payment service providers can ensure optimal security for their services and systems. The objective extends beyond merely addressing the escalating threat of cybercrime; it also seeks to cultivate a pervasive sense of safety among users. Simultaneously, it endeavours to dissuade cybercriminals from investing efforts in exploiting the robust security measures implemented by digital payment service providers. To validate the efficacy of our model, we employed a strategic approach. We have formulated four research questions using the problematization technique and leveraging a thorough examination of the existing literature. Subsequently, we systematically map the findings of our model, ensuring a nuanced alignment with the existing academic discourse. The article aims to have a widespread and significant impact by enhancing security and fundamentally influencing the trajectory of digital payment adoption, thereby contributing to the development of the digital economy.

Assessment of academic burnout among undergraduate medical and health sciences students: a survey study from the United Arab Emirates

PurposeThis study aims to assess the prevalence of burnout among undergraduate medical and health science students and to identify the factors associated with its development.Design/methodology/approachA cross-sectional study was conducted involving students from Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Science University. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey was used to evaluate three subscales of burnout. Ethical considerations were met, and informed written consent was obtained from participants. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between demographic, personal and school environment factors and burnout.FindingsOut of 453 students surveyed, the majority were females (74.8%) aged 18–20 years (60%). Significant levels of burnout were reported, with emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment affecting over half of the participants (69%). Factors such as being in the clinical years, long-distance commuting challenges and involuntary college selection were identified as predictors of burnout.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the study provides valuable insights, limitations may include the specific context of the university and potential biases in self-reported data.Practical implicationsThe findings underscore the importance of raising awareness, maintaining work-life balance and implementing coping strategies to support student well-being and foster a positive learning environment. Suggestions include time management and seeking guidance from mentors or mental health professionals.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the understanding of burnout among medical and health science students, especially within the unique context of the United Arab Emirates, given the convergence of students from diverse nationalities and cultural backgrounds.

Board nationality diversity and shareholder value creation

The study examined the influence of board nationality diversity on shareholder value creation of non- financial companies listed on the JSE for a 10- year period from 2013 to 2022.The study used quantitative quasi-experimental research design. The study measured board nationality diversity using proportion of foreign directors on board, Blau index for board nationality diversity, dummy variables for one, two and three or foreign directors. The proxies of shareholder value creation included standard market value added, market- to book ratio and Tobin’s Q and fixed effects model based on linear and curvilinear models were used to test the hypotheses. Main findings of the study demonstrate that proportion of foreign directors on board has an insignificant negative impact on standardised market value added and Tobin’s Q, while significant negative impact on market to book ratio. Blau index for board nationality diversity has insignificant negative impact on standardised market value added and market to book ratio, yet insignificant positive impact on Tobin’s Q. One foreign director on board has significant positive impact on standard market value added and market to book ratio, while insignificant positive impact on Tobin’s Q. Two and three foreign directors on board have insignificant positive impact on all shareholder value creation measures. In relation to curvilinear models, proportion of foreign directors on board and Blau in index for board nationality diversity have both positive and negative impact on all shareholder value creation measures highlighting an inverted U- shaped effects.

Scale up of the learning circles: a participatory action approach to support local food systems in four diverse First Nations school communities within Canada

BackgroundAddressing Indigenous food security and food sovereignty calls for community-driven strategies to improve access to and availability of traditional and local food. Participatory approaches that integrate Indigenous leadership have supported successful program implementation. Learning Circles: Local Healthy Food to School is a participatory program that convenes a range of stakeholders including food producers, educators and Knowledge Keepers to plan, implement and monitor local food system action. Pilot work (2014–2015) in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia (BC), showed promising results of the Learning Circles (LC) approach in enhancing local and traditional food access, knowledge and skills among youth and adolescents. The objective of the current evaluation was therefore to examine the process of scaling-up the LC vertically within the Haida Nation; and horizontally across three diverse First Nations contexts: Gitxsan Nation, Hazelton /Upper Skeena, BC; Ministikwan Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan; and Black River First Nation, Manitoba between 2016 and 2019.MethodsAn implementation science framework, Foster-Fishman and Watson’s (2012) ABLe Change Framework, was used to understand the LC as a participatory approach to facilitate community capacity building to strengthen local food systems. Interviews (n = 52), meeting summaries (n = 44) and tracking sheets (n = 39) were thematically analyzed.ResultsThe LC facilitated a collaborative process to: (1) build on strengths and explore ways to increase readiness and capacity to reclaim traditional and local food systems; (2) strengthen connections to land, traditional knowledge and ways of life; (3) foster community-level action and multi-sector partnerships; (4) drive actions towards decolonization through revitalization of traditional foods; (5) improve availability of and appreciation for local healthy and traditional foods in school communities; and (6) promote holistic wellness through steps towards food sovereignty and food security. Scale-up within Haida Gwaii supported a growing, robust local and traditional food system and enhanced Haida leadership. The approach worked well in other First Nations contexts, though baseline capacity and the presence of champions were enabling factors.ConclusionsFindings highlight LC as a participatory approach to build capacity and support iterative planning-to-action in community food systems. Identified strengths and challenges support opportunities to expand, adopt and modify the LC approach in other Indigenous communities with diverse food systems.

Constructing Global Identity Through Creative Linguistic and Artistic Branding of African Countries’ Monikers

This qualitative study investigated into the complex dynamics of African nation monikers and their profound implications for national identity and international branding. The purpose of the research was to examine the interplay between linguistic inventiveness and artistic representation in 54 African nations, exploring how these components contributed to shaping global perceptions. Adopting a content analysis approach, the study systematically investigated linguistic nuances and artistic depictions associated with each nation's moniker. The population comprised the 54 diverse African nations, ensuring a purposive and representative sampling approach that considered linguistic, cultural, and geographical variations. Data was sourced from official documents, historical records, and public discourse surrounding each nation's moniker, with a focus on linguistic analysis from official statements, literature, and media representations. Artistic representations were examined through visual sources such as national emblems, flags, and associated symbols. The findings revealed a complex tapestry of linguistic features firmly anchored in cultural and historical contexts. Artistic depictions, including visual metaphors and symbols, contributed significantly to each nation's unique character. Notable examples included Nigeria's "The Giant of Africa" and South Africa's "The Rainbow Nation." Recommendations emphasized the strategic use of linguistic and artistic components to enhance international image, recognizing their critical role in shaping global perceptions of African nations. The study also acknowledged its limitations and proposed directions for future research, offering valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics of language and creative expression in constructing national identity on the global stage.

Cross-country analysis of the effectiveness of commercialization of scientific research results

The objective of this research is to undertake a comparative analysis of methodologies for evaluating the efficacy of research commercialization across diverse nations, focusing particularly on the United States, Australia, Canada, South Korea, the European Union, and Kazakhstan. The study methodology involved a comparative analysis, commencing with an exhaustive examination of academic and practical resources to pinpoint key organizations involved in research commercialization within the specified countries. Subsequently, after the selection of countries and a systematic scrutiny of these organizations' activities, the methodology endorsed by the Alliance of Technology Transfer Professionals (ATTP) was employed to compare and assess commercialization efficiency across varied nations. Results of the study: the study outcomes unveiled common trends and effective assessment approaches, while also identifying deficiencies in Kazakhstan's commercialization evaluation system and offering recommendations for enhancement. The assessment of commercialization metrics in Kazakhstan is hindered by the paucity of comprehensive data, rendering comparisons with global benchmarks, including the ATTP methodology, challenging. However, concerted collaboration among governmental bodies, research institutions, and industrial stakeholders could surmount these hurdles and foster innovative entrepreneurship within the nation. The adoption of alternative research methodologies such as environmental functioning analysis models or regression analysis may enable a more profound evaluation of commercialization efficiency in Kazakhstan, notwithstanding data constraints.

Activism and academia: an interdisciplinary dialogue on academic freedom and social engagement

ABSTRACT This article focuses on the questions of academic freedom, scholar activism, public science, and social engagement. The five authors represent scholars from different disciplines and scientific paradigms as well as diverse gender, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnic, and class backgrounds, yet they share a joint passion for academic ‘activism’. The paper, therefore, reflects a multitude of transdisciplinary perspectives and positionalities. This dialogue was born out of the group’s desire to investigate the role of scientists in public and political matters, including engagement in social justice. The interdisciplinary nature of the dialogue allows for comparisons between how activism is defined, perceived, practiced, and considered (un)welcome in the disciplines of Sociology, Psychology, Law, Media Studies, and Medical Sciences.

Dynamic changes of food environment: In and out of COVID-19 pandemic

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has precipitated food crises worldwide, prompting a re-examination of the resilience of the urban food environment. While previous research on the urban food environment has predominantly focused on Western contexts, scant attention has been given to China. This study takes Shenzhen, China as an example to establish a food environment evaluation framework centered on accessibility, diversity, and healthiness factors, aiming to analyze the dynamic changes of the food environment during normal and pandemic periods. By using the GA optimization algorithm, some convenience stores are transformed into self-pickup points (SPPs), which is expected to eliminate the deserts risk areas (DRAs) with low cost and high efficiency. The findings reveal a distinctive “center-periphery” spatial structure characterizing the food environment in Shenzhen, and the improvement of healthiness plays a crucial role in sustaining food oases and ameliorating food swamps. This research provides methods for improving the resilience of the food environment during the pandemic across diverse nations, bolstering the security of urban lifeline systems.

The pathways of board diversity in European contexts: Exploring the influence of director types on firm performance

This research paper explores the impact of board diversity on firm performance, with a particular focus on different types of board members. The study examines gender, age, tenure, education, and nationality diversity among board members for their effects on firm performance. Using a multi-country dataset and various performance proxies, the paper employs panel regression analysis to assess the relationships. The findings reveal nuanced effects of diversity, with gender diversity among independent and non-executive directors, age diversity among executive directors, and education diversity among executives showing positive impacts. The dominant pathway among these effects is the strategic role of directors, as suggested by the resource dependence theory. However, the paper also highlights the inappropriateness of a one-size-fits-all approach to board diversity, which can have either positive or negative effects depending on the context. Overall, the research contributes to the understanding of board diversity and its implications for corporate governance and firm performance.

Sustainable finance disclosure in ASEAN’s banking industry: Do board independence and diversity matter?

This paper aims at investigating the relation between board independence and diversity (gender diversity and nationality diversity) on sustainable finance disclosure (SFD) in ASEAN’s banking industry. We collected the SFD data from the sustainable finance report. The board independence variable is measured using the percentage of independent board members, while the board diversity is measured using Blau's index. This paper uses data with a total of 276 observations from 2017 to 2019 using two panel data regressions: fixed effect and random effect. The result of the study indicates that the SFD in ASEAN is at a low level because there are only 34 banks that implement SFD. SFD has a positive association with the board’s independence. While the gender diversity on the board is not significantly affecting the SFD. The board’s nationality diversity is negatively associated with SFD. The results of this study can be useful in evaluating the implementation of SFD for each banking organization in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, we expect the results of this research to assist ASEAN financial regulators and banking associations in optimizing SFD as a means of addressing the issue of climate change.

Trauma-informed care for unaccompanied children: Lessons learned for practice and policy development.

The number of unaccompanied children (UC) arriving in the United States has increased significantly in recent years. UC often encounter traumatic events in their home country, during their migration journey, and upon resettlement. This article describes a congressionally-funded initiative to provide trauma-informed mental health services to UC and children separated from their parents upon arrival in the United States. It also identifies facilitators and barriers to working with UC and offers lessons learned to help inform future practice and policy development aimed at assisting this vulnerable population. Data were derived from qualitative interviews and a survey administered to grantees. In total, grantees served 1,195 youth and families across 11 states, including UC, asylees, and new immigrants during the period of December 2018 through September 2019. Youth and families served spoke 16 languages and originated from diverse nations. Services provided included direct services to youth and families; training for providers and community members; partnerships and collaborations; and resource/product development or adaptations. Lessons learned and recommendations derived from this initiative can assist others interested in promoting trauma-informed practice and policies for migrant children and their families. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Addressing Teenage Pregnancy and Reproductive Health Among Latinx Adolescents and Young Adults

Despite a national decline in teenage pregnancy rates, Latinxs and Black individuals continue to have higher teenage birth rates compared to white teens. In the United States, Latinx females (ages 15-19) are more than twice as likely to have a teenage birth compared to non-Latinx white teens. With an increasingly diverse nation, a shift towards culturally inclusive approaches to care is critical to achieving equitable patient outcomes. Improving access to preventative care, workforce diversity, and insurance coverage will lead to cost-savings and also help restore trust in a system that has failed past generations. In this commentary, targeted recommendations tailored specifically towards Latinx women will be provided including culturally competent birth control counseling, and a focus on reproductive justice. Not speaking English, low socioeconomic status, acculturation, legal status, and being uninsured are all teenage pregnancy risk factors unique to Latinx women. Cultural preferences and attitudes towards contraception must also be considered. Further expansion of Medicaid insurance coverage is also necessary to increase reproductive access among vulnerable populations. A cultural humility framework to reproductive health counseling and services is recommended. Within this framework family engagement is encouraged and women are free from reproductive coercion; they have the freedom to access over-the-counter contraception and receive guidance and support from providers and community health workers who are cognizant of culture and heritage. An integrated community-based approach that is culturally sensitive and in tune with Latinx heterogenicity is necessary to lower teenage pregnancy rates and achieve reproductive justice.

Faith, Networks, and the Ballot: Unveiling the Hidden Drivers of Voting Intentions in Indonesia's 2024 Election

This study investigates the extent to which social network characteristics, religious identity, and past political participation influence voting intentions in Indonesia's 2024 general election, with a particular focus on the implications of religiosity in a predominantly Muslim society. A quantitative survey method was employed, gathering primary data through both online and offline surveys from 314 participants across selected locations in Indonesia. Multilevel modelling techniques were used to analyse the relationship between social network characteristics, religious identity, and voting intentions. The results revealed that social network characteristics, such as the frequency of interaction and socio-political discussions, do not significantly influence voting intentions. In contrast, religiocentrism negatively impacts voting intentions, suggesting that individuals with more conservative religious beliefs are less likely to vote. However, past offline political participation was found to be a strong positive predictor of voting intentions. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions that address the concerns of conservative religious groups and reinforce the civic duty associated with voting. Understanding the limited role of social networks in this context can inform strategies to increase voter turnout in future elections. This study provides new insights into the complex interplay between religious identity, social networks, and political behaviour in Indonesia, a predominantly Muslim and culturally diverse nation, particularly in the post-pandemic socio-political landscape.

Constitutional and municipal law: Analysing constitutions and their societal implications

The present study scrutinizes the societal implications of constitutions and their significance within both national and international frameworks. The authors undertakes an exploration of the principles underlying constitutional law, delving into the categorization of constitutions based on state structures and political regimes. Additionally, the article explores instances of constitutions from diverse nations, shedding light on their consequential effects on society. Emphasis is placed on a meticulous examination of constitutional structures and their pivotal contribution to the configuration of legal and socio-cultural landscapes. The examination of constituent elements within constitutions enables the illumination of their crucial significance in shaping the legal and socio-cultural fabric of society. Special consideration is directed towards international dimensions, with a specific focus on the impact of preambles in shaping national identity on the global stage. The article systematically investigates the significance of procedures for constitutional amendments, emphasizing their role in fostering stability and facilitating adaptation to prevailing global trends. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the constitution's influence on society, aiming to identify the pivotal components within the constitutional structure that exert the most significant impact on societal development. The primary object of investigation encompasses constitutional documents from diverse countries. This includes a thorough examination of their preambles, core provisions, sections concerning human rights and freedoms, power structures, and an exploration of the international context within which these constitutions operate. The outcomes of this research can function as a crucial resource for human rights organizations, legislative bodies, and constitutional commissions involved in the formulation and amendment of constitutional documents. Moreover, the study creates avenues for additional comparative analyses, facilitating an in-depth exploration of the diverse constituencies across countries and their repercussions on societies within the international sphere.