East Africa Region Research Articles

Perspectives on transport pathways of microplastics across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region

Perspectives on transport pathways of microplastics across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region

Tracing the path to sustainable governance: CSR committees as mediators of board impact on ESG performance in the MENA region

Purpose This study aims to explore the mediating role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) committees in the relationship between board characteristics and environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance, specifically within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Design/methodology/approach Based on a panel of 178 firms spanning 2015–2022, the analysis uses Baron and Kenny’s (1986) mediation approach, supplemented by structural equation modeling (SEM) path analysis for robustness. Findings The findings demonstrate that CSR committees play a significant mediating role in the impact of board size, expertise and gender diversity on ESG performance. Furthermore, the study confirms the direct, positive influence of both board characteristics and the presence of CSR committees on ESG performance, underscoring their strategic importance in fostering sustainability in this regional context. Practical implications The findings highlight the strategic importance of diversifying and enhancing board skills to improve ESG performance. Companies are encouraged to recalibrate their governance frameworks to leverage the mediating influence of CSR committees and promote sustainable business practices. Social implications By demonstrating the positive effect of CSR committees on ESG performance, this study aligns with global trends in responsible business conduct and highlights the importance of corporate governance in addressing environmental and social challenges. This alignment is critical for achieving sustainable development goals and reinforcing stakeholder trust in the region. Originality/value This research provides novel empirical insights into the mediating effect of CSR committees within the MENA region, offering a unique contribution to the discourse on corporate governance and sustainability. By highlighting region-specific governance dynamics that shape ESG outcomes, it deepens the understanding of effective governance practices.

Navigating Carbon Peaking and Neutrality in MENA: The Impact of Foreign Direct Investment and Trade Openness Using Panel PCSE and FGLS Techniques

ABSTRACTIn response to the global challenge of climate change and the drive towards carbon neutrality, this study investigates the effects of foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade openness (TO) on carbon emissions (CEM) within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The research spans 18 countries from 1990 to 2022, focusing on Sustainable Development Goal 13. Utilizing Porter's hypothesis and the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) theory, the study applies quantitative methods including panel corrected standard errors (PCSE) and feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) to ensure robustness. To address potential endogeneity, two‐stage least squares and lagged effect estimations are employed. The findings reveal that both FDI and TO are associated with reduced CEM, indicating positive environmental impacts. Also, the pairwise causality tests show bidirectional causality between FDI, TO, and CEM, while a unidirectional causality is found from industrialization (IND) and energy consumption (EC) to CEM. These results underscore the importance of integrating FDI and TO into strategies for achieving carbon neutrality and advancing sustainable development goals, offering actionable insights for policymakers.

The professional logics of accounting education in MENA countries: evidence from Egypt and KSA

PurposeThis study investigates the influence of the surrounding institutional context, with a particular focus on the professional perspective, on accounting education in two leading developing countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Egypt and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), by focusing on public universities’ undergraduate level in the two countries.Design/methodology/approachFollowing an interpretative approach, this study uses data collected mainly through interviews with the members of the key accounting professional and regulatory bodies, accounting professors and accounting graduates in Egypt and KSA. Theoretically, this study uses insights from the institutional theory to understand the institutional context shaping accounting education in the two examined settings.FindingsDespite sharing several cultural aspects, we noticed differences in accounting education in the two MENA countries. We explained how the dominant institutional perspective in these contexts (i.e. the professional perspective) affects accounting education, resulting in various implications for accounting graduates and the accounting profession. In Egypt, we noticed a retreatment of the professional perspective due to the dominance of an economic perspective informed by the worse economic conditions in the country, negatively affecting accounting education. In contrast, accounting education in KSA is primarily driven by the professional context aided by the availability of facilities and resources as well as the centrality of the role played by professionals and regulators in accounting education, which has directed accounting educators towards incorporating professional knowledge into accounting curricula.Practical implicationsBy highlighting the influence of the professional context on accounting education in a particular developing country, the findings of this study can guide regulators and policymakers in other developing countries concerning developing their accounting education programmes. Furthermore, professionals should allow accounting academics to contribute to developing the accounting profession and employers should support accounting students’ training and development.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the literature by examining the situation of accounting education beyond Western developed contexts, presenting an extensive theoretical explanation of the salient institutional perspectives shaping that situation.

A Comprehensive Analysis of AOD and its Species from Reanalysis Data over the Middle East and North Africa Regions: Evaluation of Model Performance Using Machine Learning Techniques

A Comprehensive Analysis of AOD and its Species from Reanalysis Data over the Middle East and North Africa Regions: Evaluation of Model Performance Using Machine Learning Techniques

Corporate sustainability commitment in the Middle East and North Africa region: Impact on innovation and firm performance

AbstractThis study examines the effects of corporate sustainability factors (CSFs)—specifically gender diversity, energy practices, and environmental practices—on innovation and their subsequent impact on firm performance in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. By integrating Absorptive Capacity Theory, we explore how these CSFs drive innovation, contributing to broader sustainable development goals. We analyze the impact of innovation on firm performance using the resource‐based view (RBV). Utilizing secondary data from the World Bank Enterprise Survey (WBES), we employ a two‐stage instrumental variable regression (IV‐2SLS) to address endogeneity and establish causal relationships. Our findings reveal that stakeholder engagement through gender diversity, energy practices, and environmental practices significantly enhances innovation, which, in turn, drives firm performance. Diverse leadership fosters creativity and innovation, while energy‐efficient and environmentally sustainable practices reduce costs, improve brand reputation, and align with sustainable development goals. These insights underscore essential policy implications for promoting environmental policy, clean production, and sustainable innovation ecosystems. Encouraging MENA firms to engage stakeholders and adopt sustainable practices can drive economic prosperity and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Towards cleaner desalination systems utilizing waste heat: a bibliometric analysis

Water scarcity is a global issue facing the coming generations. Desalination is a dependable, nonconventional freshwater method. However, desalination is an energy-intensive water treatment method. The primary energy source used to power various desalination processes for thermal and electrical energy consumption is fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and gas. The widespread use of fossil fuels has been linked to climate change and global warming, leading to numerous demands to reduce their usage and energy utilization. Waste heat has an excellent potential for energy recovery that can reduce the consumption of fossil fuels. This research study has been conducted to evaluate related waste heat desalination literature with data analysis, bibliometric, and clustering methods. Based on articles published between 2013 and 2023, the current study analyzed existing trends, distribution of publication subjects, journals' performances, countries' collaborations, affiliations' performances, most cited publications, authors' contributions, keyword analysis, and future perspectives on waste heat desalination systems. The findings showed that the most active journal in this field is Desalination, with 133 publications and 6332 citations. China led in publications with 242, while the United States topped the list of citations with 3598. Also, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology in Saudi Arabia published 50 documents. The top 10 institutions in this field of research are in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and Asia, particularly in Saudi Arabia, China, Iran, Egypt, and Singapore. Moreover, the most frequently used terms are analyzed and clustered into three main topics. The top 3 clusters are solar-powered desalination technologies, membrane-powered desalination technologies, and power cycles driving desalination technologies.

Effectiveness of 8-week TReatment with vortioxetine on depressive symptoms in major depressive disorder patients with comorbid generalized anxiety disorder in UAE (TRUE)

BackgroundMajor Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a leading cause of disability and results in excessive utilization of healthcare resources worldwide. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region shows a high prevalence of depressive disorders. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and MDD have the highest rate of comorbidity of all mood and anxiety disorders, ranging from 40 to 98% in drug studies. Comorbid GAD results in more significant impairment in MDD and increases the severity of symptoms. Although several clinical trials supported the safety and effectiveness of vortioxetine, no data regarding these aspects has been revealed in the MENA region. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of vortioxetine in patients with comorbid GAD in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).MethodIn a multicenter observational study, 118 patients with confirmed anxiety and depressive disorders were evaluated over four visits (baseline visit, two weeks, four weeks, and eight weeks) using MADRS and HAM-A scales to assess depression and anxiety severity, respectively by calculating mean change and the percent using Kendall’s W test.ResultsA significant mean difference in MADRS score was observed, with a gradual decrease of mean MADRS total scores over the assessment weeks (p < 0.001) as well as in HAM-A scores, from severe to moderate-severe anxiety through the four visits (p < 0.001). Furthermore, only one case was reported as a serious side effect. Nausea and insomnia were the most predominant side effects reported among the studied population.ConclusionVortioxetine was found effective and safe among patients with MDD and comorbid GAD.

Exploring the knowledge and attitudes towards metabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD): Validation and correlations of MAFLD-knowledge questionnaire and MAFLD-attitude questionnaire

BackgroundMetabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a highly prevalent non-communicable disease whose prevalence is reaching pandemic proportions. Its implications constitute a major public health concern. To date, no validated tool measures knowledge and attitudes towards MAFLD in young adults in the Middle East and North Africa region. ObjectiveTo establish and validate questionnaires that measure knowledge and attitudes towards MAFLD. MethodsMAFLD-Knowledge Questionnaire (KQ) and MAFLD-Attitudes Questionnaire (AQ) were developed by disease content experts and piloted on a group of 20 students. The questionnaire was next administered to 406 university students aged 18–24 years. The dimensionality of the instrument was tested using exploratory factor analysis and consistency with Cronbach's alpha. Finally, known-group validity was assessed by comparing the knowledge and attitudes of those with poor versus good knowledge. ResultsFor the knowledge questionnaire, 28 out of 32 questions had good loading and were thus included. Based on Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), there were 4 domains with Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin (KMO) 0.95 and Bartlett test with P < 0.001, with very good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.88). For the attitudes questionnaire, 17 items were extracted all with adequate loading. EFA revealed 3 domains with KMO of 0.95 and very good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha 0.81). Known group validity showed a significant difference between the attitudes of subjects with poor and moderate knowledge and poor and high knowledge scores but not between moderate and high knowledge scores. ConclusionWe developed and validated two questionnaires, one for the assessment of knowledge and the other for attitudes towards MAFLD in young adults. Further studies are needed to confirm dimensionality and reproducibility in different populations and age groups.

Jus ad bellum series: self-defence against armed non-state actors in the MENA region

ABSTRACT This article marks the launch of the new ‘Jus ad bellum Series’ in the Journal on the Use of Force and International Law, designed to explore the evolving state practice in the jus ad bellum regime. This inaugural piece explores the evolving state practice in relation to self-defence against armed non-state actors (ANSAs), focusing specifically on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The article is structured into four key sections: first, the interpretation of Article 51 of the UN Charter; second, the contentious issue of anticipatory self-defence, focusing on how recent state practice has reshaped the concept of imminence in response to modern security threats; third, the criteria of necessity and proportionality; finally, the ‘unwilling or unable’ doctrine. The analysis of Article 51’s interpretation reveals significant variation in how states frame their self-defence claims, reflecting the complexity of applying traditional jus ad bellum rules to contemporary security threats.

The burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease in the middle east and North Africa (MENA) region over three decades

BackgroundCirrhosis comprises a significant health challenge in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region impacting healthcare systems and communities. This study sought to investigate trends in the burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease, different etiologies, deaths, and the disability burden utilizing data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database.MethodsAnalyzing epidemiological trends from 1990 to 2021 across 21 MENA countries, this research utilized data on age-standardized incidence rates (ASIR), age-standardized death rates, and age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to evaluate the burden of cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease. The study also examined national variations and sociodemographic relationships.ResultsThe study identified a 114.9% increase in cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease incidence within the MENA region between 1990 and 2021, with 7,344,030 incident cases reported in 2021. The ASIR showed a steeper rise in females (9.6%) compared to males (7.0%). Etiology-specific analysis revealed an increase in the ASIR for MASLD related cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease by 22.2%, while those due to alcohol as well as hepatitis B and C decreased by 28.1%, 59.3%, and 30%, respectively. Despite the rising incidence, overall age-standardized death rates across all etiologies decreased by 54.3%, with DALYs showing a 51.4% decrease during the same period. Country-specific trends varied significantly, with Oman recording the highest annual ASIR increase (0.64%), and Qatar observing the most substantial annual reduction in age-standardized death rates (-2.88%).ConclusionThe study highlights evolving trends in cirrhosis and other chronic liver disease within the MENA region, emphasizing the necessity for comprehensive, etiology, and gender-specific interventions. Despite an increasing incidence, the observed improvements in mortality rates and age-standardized disability burden indicate progress in public health efforts to mitigate cirrhosis’s impact. These findings point to the complex nature of cirrhosis outcomes and the urgent need for tailored strategies to manage its increasing burden effectively.

Energy Transition in the Middle East and North Africa Region: Regional Solutions for Climate Change Challenges Amid Economic Sanctions

As the world grapples with the urgent priority of transitioning to a net-zero future, there exists a shared need to make all efforts to reduce anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, mostly caused by burning fossil fuels. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region plays an important role because of its oil and natural gas output. Additionally, this region has experienced significant conflict and numerous wars. This article will focus on one of the many challenges that some key states in the MENA region, with a main focus on Iran, are facing in their energy transition. Several countries in the MENA region are or have recently been subject to some form of economic sanctions. Sanctions appear to have had a material impact on these countries’ abilities to fulfill their contributions to transitioning to a net-zero economy. Research suggests that the chief obstacles they face regarding that transition is the lack of access to the latest technologies, a dearth of financing, limited or often no direct investments in low carbon industry, diplomatic isolation, and the concomitant economic volatility caused by sanctions, which in sum, take away from the financial capacity of a target country to save and invest for the transition to net zero. Therefore, it is crucial to revisit sanctions laws and policies, ensuring that they do not hinder the global community from achieving its climate goals. This article proposes establishing a regional ‘climate savings account’ to serve as a strategic mechanism to balance geopolitical interests and environmental goals.

The Role of the Textile Industry and Permitting Systems in Advancing the Environmental Dimensions of the SDGs in the MENA Region

The textile industry plays a key role in driving development and human welfare, but it is also a sector struggling to address its contribution to the triple planetary crisis – climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, the environmental implications are compounded by the region’s water scarcity, land degradation and energy dependence. This article emphasises the urgent need to transition towards a sustainable and circular textile value chain to accelerate the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In this respect, permitting processes play a key role. However, the role of permitting systems in driving us towards a sustainable economy for textiles has not been exhaustively explored, if at all. Drawing upon research conducted by the UNEP Law Division in collaboration with Queensland University of Technology, as well as a broader literature review, this article examines the role of the textile industry in the MENA region and the importance of developing, or strengthening existing, legislation relating to permitting procedures, with a specific focus on Morocco, Türkiye, Jordan, and Egypt. The article underscores the pivotal role of environmental permitting processes in addressing the environmental footprint of the textile sector, mainly related to the production phase of the industry. While many countries already have permit processes in place, there is a need for policymakers to review and strengthen these frameworks to ensure comprehensive integration and address existing gaps. By doing so, countries can more effectively regulate and minimise the environmental impact of textile activities, thereby advancing the environmental dimensions of the SDGs.

Policy Options for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the MENA Region through the Effective Implementation of Multilateral Environmental Agreements

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region faces a complex set of challenges, including political instability, economic disparities, and environmental degradation. Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in this region is paramount to ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for its diverse populations. Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) play a crucial role in addressing environmental issues, which are intertwined with many of the SDGs. This paper explored policy options that can help the MENA region make significant strides towards achieving the SDGs through the effective implementation of MEAs. To achieve this, the MENA region will be required to strengthen regional cooperation through the development and implementation of regional agreements that are tailored towards shared environmental issues, such as trans-boundary water management in the Nile River basin or tackling air pollution in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Strategies for the adoption of policies on the region’s prevalent issues such as drought and desertification, renewable energy transition, biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation will have to be negotiated, developed, strengthened, and implemented. The paper utilised a content analysis research approach in analysing selected international and regional MEAs. The paper highlights the challenges with the implementation of both international and regional MEAs, with a view to raising awareness on the shortcomings and challenges of implementation of these very important environmental treaties. Achieving the SDGs in the MENA region through the implementation of MEAs requires a coordinated effort amongst nations, international organisations, and civil society. By prioritising regional cooperation, sustainable resource management, renewable energy adoption, biodiversity conservation, climate action, waste management and education, the MENA region can make significant progress towards a more sustainable and prosperous future. These policy options offer a roadmap to address pressing environmental challenges whilst simultaneously advancing the broader agenda of sustainable development.

Land Governance and Environmental Management in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region

The importance of governance arrangements for access, use and control of land and resources is being increasingly recognized by international institutions. This paper overviews land governance initiatives being promoted by UN Habitat, and the growing importance of rapidly developing geospatial technologies. The paper next addresses land governance issues in the MENA region, particularly the Arab Land Governance initiative, and presents a brief case study of Oman’s land governance, and its effects upon society, urban settlement patterns, and land markets. Issues of education and training for better land governance are discussed. Recommendations and conclusions address the issues and ways forward for the region.

Green Hydrogen and Formula 1 (F1): Advancing Sustainable Comprehensive Approaches for F1 Events in the MENA Region

Formula 1 (F1) has embarked on sustainability initiatives, notably the 'Countdown to Zero' campaign aimed at achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. This article delves into F1's sustainability efforts, focusing on the integration of green hydrogen as a promising solution for reducing carbon emissions, particularly within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Despite the novelty of green hydrogen in F1, its potential applications in powering vehicles and supporting event logistics are explored. Additionally, the article examines MENA's significance in F1's sustainability agenda, given its abundant renewable energy resources and strategic position in hosting Grand Prix races. The feasibility of transitioning F1 cars to sustainable alternatives, including electric vehicles, hydrogen-powered cars, and e-fuels, is scrutinized, highlighting challenges and opportunities. Furthermore, the article discusses sustainable practices that can make F1 events more sustainable. It refers to sustainable practices previously implemented in past F1 Grand Prix races, assesses their applicability to the MENA region, and suggests innovative practices that the MENA can implement; these include the installation of solar canopies in F1 circuit parking lots and the use of bio-fuelled trucks for event logistics. Investment in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) emerges as another avenue for F1 to mitigate its carbon footprint, potentially through partnerships with airlines present in the MENA region, such as Emirates. Ultimately, this article underscores the imperative for F1 to embrace sustainable practices, not only to align with societal trends but also to lead the charge in environmental stewardship within the realm of motorsport.

Integrating ESG Principles into Environmental Education: Opportunities and Challenges in the MENA Region

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region grapples with pressing environmental challenges such as water scarcity, desertification, and climate change. However, within these challenges lies the potential for sustainable development. A paradigm shift in environmental education for sustainable development is imperative to address these issues effectively. Environmental education plays a crucial role in instilling resilience in the face of climate change and natural disasters that increasingly impact the region. Redefining EE through Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) can act as a catalyst for positive change. Integrating ESG principles into education empowers citizens not only to understand environmental issues but also to lead sustainable lives and contribute to the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Accessibility to environmental education should be universal, transcending gender, socioeconomic status, and geographical location. Leveraging technology and digital platforms can significantly enhance the reach and impact of environmental education. Methodologically, this article employs a conventional literature review approach, conducting a desktop research to comprehensively examine the existing body of publications related to environmental education for sustainable development in the MENA region. The review explores current environmental educational approaches applied to achieve sustainable development in the MENA region. Subsequently, it introduces alternative approaches that leverage ESG principles consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals, aiming to redefine the current status quo. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in environmental education in the MENA region through the integration of ESG principles into the curriculum, promotion of collaborative governance and inclusivity, the region can nurture a new path of environmentally conscious citizens poised to contribute to sustainable development.

Net Zero and Just Energy Transition in the Middle East and North Africa Region

No abstract

The Policy Factors in the Decline of U. S. Agricultural Imports in the MENA Region

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region stands on a global pivot point, impacting the world through its diverse political and economic dynamics. While often recognized for its complex challenges, the region's food security remains surprisingly under-considered, even though it carries significant global repercussions. This research focuses on a concerning trend: the decline of U.S. agricultural exports to MENA, potentially jeopardizing regional stability and impacting global food systems. While EU competitiveness is acknowledged, this research delves deeper than mere identification of competitors such as the EU, dissecting the interplay of their advantages – superior pricing and yields – against the U.S. approach from a policy-perspective. The paper’s ultimate goal is to highlight how the US has suffered from out-competition from the EU, not simply MENA countries’ diversification, leading to the latter’s collapse as a source of staple crop importations, in order to prevent such drastic changes in the future as the same trend in other industries could provide much more devastating for the US. This analysis can impact US policy and inspire a shift towards more sensible and outcome-oriented spending policies.

Psychometric characteristics of the decision‐making ability scale among high school students

AbstractThe process of decision‐making is a multifaceted cognitive endeavor encompassing various cognitive, emotional, psychological, and social processes. It empowers individuals to select from a range of alternatives. Its significance spans across age groups, impacting both adults and children, and the relevance of which goes beyond aiding learners in choosing their educational or professional paths; it also pertains to preparing them to navigate the diverse situations they will encounter throughout their lives. To approach this ability, we developed a scale comprising 20 items, assessing five distinct decision‐making factors. This scale was administered to a sample of 303 learners in the first and second years of the baccalaureate course (pre‐final and final years of secondary education), representing both genders, and studying in four high schools. The participants’ ages ranged between 16 and 20 years. The results of this study revealed positive psychometric properties of the scale after its apparent validity was verified. Additionally, principal component analysis, using a latent root criterion greater than one (Eigenvalue &gt; 1), and performing Varimax rotation, resulted in five factors that represent decision‐making styles (dependent, avoidant, confident, rational, intuitive) that explain 53.67% of the total variance. Through the application of confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), the outcomes showcased favorable conformity indicators. The ratio of chi‐square value to degrees of freedom was recorded at less than 5 (x²/df = 1.531). The RMSEA index, at 0.041, remained below the accepted threshold of 0.08. The metrics (CFI, TLI, GFI, IFI) all surpassed 0.90, falling within acceptable ranges. Strong internal consistency between item scores and their respective factors was established by Pearson coefficients. The correlation coefficients between each factor's score and the total scale score were robust, ranging from 0.483 to 0.727. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the scale's factors ranged from 0.788 (highest) to 0.723 (lowest), with an overall scale stability coefficient of 0.748. These high coefficients collectively confirm the scale's validity, reliability, and appropriateness for implementation within the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.