Enforcement Of Regulations Research Articles

Risk assessment for non-carcinogenic effect posed by sulfates in water on the health of residents around The Sumpur River, West Sumatra-Indonesia.

The extensive agricultural activity contributes to runoff and plays a significant role in elevated sulfate concentrations in many global water bodies. In tropical regions, sulfate pollution and its associated health hazards have intensified, emerging as an international concern. However, these issues are often overlooked despite their potential impact on water and citizen safety. Present study intends to assess the risks posed by sulfate contamination to human health, given its critical implications for water quality in the area. The assessment was conducted through observations in seven water sampling stations established along the Sumpur River and its estuary in Lake Singkarak. The analysis of the collected samples reveals that sulfate concentrations at all locations remain within permissible limits, confirming the water's suitability for consumption. The Sulfate Pollution Index (SPI) values at all sampling locations are below 1, classifying them as unpolluted with respect to sulfate content. Additionally, the Hazard Index (HI) values at all locations were below 1, indicating no significant non-carcinogenic health risks to the public. However, location S5 recorded the highest average HI value, nearing 1 (0.95). One of sampling observations at S5, located near rice fields and settlement areas along the riverbanks, showed a value exceeding 1, which requires attention. Sustainable management of agricultural is crucial for mitigating potential health and dangers sulfate contamination and ensuring the safety of water for consumption in this region. Mitigating sulfate pollution from agriculture and residential areas requires a combination of technology, education, and regulatory enforcement. This approach should actively involve the community to create a healthier and more sustainable environment.

Economic development and pesticide use in EU agriculture.

Recent publications by the Food and Agriculture Organization show the growing concern about the use of pesticides and the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices. This study examines the relationship between economic development and pesticide use in the European Union (EU) within the framework of the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) using a dynamic panel approach with the Arellano-Bond Generalized Method of Moments. The analysis of data from 26 EU Member States over a 20-year period confirms the EKC hypothesis: pesticide use initially increases with economic development, reaches a turning point at a Human Development Index of 0.865, and then decreases as human development progresses. Key determinants include education, investment in research and development, agricultural income and foreign direct investment. Our results confirm this relationship and underline the importance of policy interventions. Stricter enforcement of regulations, including pesticide reduction targets, and advances in agricultural technology are essential to accelerate the transition to less reliance on pesticides. In line with EU strategies such as the Farm to Fork initiative, this study emphasizes the role of human development, particularly education, but also the design of effective institutional mechanisms to reduce dependence on pesticides and reconcile economic progress with environmental sustainability.

Corruption And Green Crime: The Role Of Local Authorities In Enabling Environmental Offences In India

Environmental degradation in India poses a grave threat to its ecological balance, public health, and sustainable development. While national policies and central agencies are crucial, the enforcement and implementation of environmental regulations often fall to local authorities. This research paper explores the intricate relationship between corruption and "green crime" in India, specifically focusing on how local authorities, through various acts of commission and omission, enable environmental offenses. It analyzes the systemic vulnerabilities at the local level that are exploited for personal gain, leading to widespread environmental damage, including illegal mining, deforestation, uncontrolled pollution, and improper waste management. Drawing upon existing literature, reports, and case studies, this paper identifies key mechanisms of corruption—such as bribery, cronyism, political interference, and bureaucratic inertia—that undermine environmental governance. Furthermore, it examines the challenges faced by local authorities in combating green crime, including lack of capacity, inadequate resources, and limited accountability. Finally, the paper proposes a multi-faceted approach to address this pervasive issue, emphasizing enhanced transparency, strengthened institutional frameworks, improved public participation, and robust accountability mechanisms to foster a more effective and ethical environmental governance system in India.

Evaluating Biological Risks in Biomedical Laboratories of Primary Health Care

Biomedical laboratories in primary health care centers play a critical role in disease detection, diagnosis, and management. However, the handling of diagnostic samples presents significant biological risks, particularly when biosafety measures are insufficient. This study focuses on analyzing the biological risks in 35 BSL-2 biomedical laboratories within health facilities in Athens, Greece, by examining compliance with biosafety regulations, personnel safety awareness, and biorisk management practices. A cross-sectional survey was conducted combining a customized checklist and a structured health and safety questionnaire, both developed based on the existing literature, including the international biosafety guidelines (BMBL 6th ed., WHO Biosafety Program Management, 2020). On-site evaluations were performed by a certified biorisk management advisor, and 158 laboratory professionals anonymously completed questionnaires on biosafety practices. The collected data were analyzed qualitatively, and where possible, quantitatively, by using SPSS software and p-values from the McNemar test. The results revealed widespread deficiencies in biosafety culture and risk management. Key gaps were identified in all layers of engineering controls, administrative controls, personal protective equipment (PPE), and emergency preparedness. Many laboratories failed to meet international biosafety standards set by organizations such as the WHO, CDC, and ECDC, as well as Greek legislation, highlighting the need for urgent improvements. To address these issues and mitigate the observed gaps, the implementation of comprehensive Biorisk Management Systems, enhanced biosafety training, and stricter enforcement of national and European biosafety regulations is strongly recommended. These measures are essential to protect laboratory personnel, the surrounding community, and the environment from lab-acquired infections and other biological threats.

Health and Safety in Indian Tourism: A Comprehensive Review

The health and safety of tourists are vital for a sustainable and positive tourism experience. In India, the growing tourism industry offers immense opportunities but also presents serious challenges in managing health and safety. This review paper examines the current situation by analyzing recent literature and official reports. It highlights improvements in health infrastructure and safety awareness but notes persistent risks such as infectious diseases like malaria and dengue, especially in rural areas. Many healthcare facilities are still under-equipped to meet tourist demands. Safety concerns also include crime, poor transportation infrastructure, and natural disasters. The study identifies key areas for improvement, such as stricter enforcement of health and safety regulations, better training for tourism professionals, and investment in emergency response systems. Additionally, greater public awareness and preparedness among tourists and local communities is essential. These findings contribute to sustainable tourism development in India by offering actionable insights to improve tourist well-being and safety.

Development and Research Directions in Seafarers’ Welfare and Rights: A Bibliometric Analysis Between 1920 and 2023

ABSTRACT Seafarers make a critical contribution to civil society; however, they are exposed to various occupational health hazards on board ships and have historically not been granted fundamental rights. For over one century, since the first international instrument – the National Seamen’s Code Recommendation – was adopted in 1920, global seafarers have been fighting for their rights and welfare. The International Labour Organization adopted the Maritime Labour Convention as a “Bill of Rights” for seafarers in 2006, and then this instrument entered into force in 2013. After more than 10 years of implementation, it is necessary to thoroughly review the process and achievements that the maritime industry has been performing to protect seafarers’ rights and ensure their welfare. This study employed bibliometric and content analysis methods to offer a comprehensive and succinct description of the progress in academic research on seafarers’ welfare and rights from 1920 to 2023 in the Scopus database. It identified the topics, envisaged the current challenges of seafarers, and suggested imperative measures and research directions in the future. To enhance the rights and welfare of seafarers, leading suggestions from this study include (i) regulatory improvements and effective enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006, (ii) improving occupational health and safety; mental health and wellbeing of seafarers, (iii) training their knowledge and skills to cope with challenges, and (iv) developing women seafarers’ prospects.

Comparative Study of Wastewater Generated from Mineral Water Factories, Arunachal Pradesh

The increasing need for packaged drinking water has resulted in the growth of mineral water production units, particularly in developing areas such as Northeast India. But the environmental effects of wastewater released by such units are usually left behind. This study is a comparative analysis of wastewater produced by two well-known mineral water plants in the Nirjuli area of Papumpare District, Arunachal Pradesh, namely M/S Renu Beverage (the producer of Orchid Drop) and M/S Polo International (the manufacturer of Polo Mineral Water). The main aim was to analyse the physicochemical properties of the wastewater and check compliance with the allowable discharge standards set by the regulatory authorities. In order to obtain accurate and representative data, wastewater samples were taken at 10-minute intervals from the outlet of each factory. This process was done for five months, with a one-month gap between consecutive sampling runs to account for seasonal or operational changes. The parameters examined were major water quality parameters such as pH, temperature, turbidity, chloride, total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and dissolved oxygen (DO). The parameters were analysed using standard APHA laboratory procedures. The findings reported that although majority of the physicochemical values stayed within proper limits of discharge, considerable discrepancies in BOD, TSS, and turbidity levels existed. Interestingly, wastewaters of the Polo unit showed high levels of BOD and turbidity as opposed to Orchid Drop, and that indicates variation in effluent treatment practices being applied. Differences depict the levels of operational proficiency as well as the wastewater handling protocols being implemented across different units. Aside from comparative evaluation, the research further investigated possibilities for reuse of treated wastewater for industrial and agricultural applications. From analysing monthly trends and scrutinizing changes in loads of pollutants, the research discerns opportunities to include treated wastewater within sustainable water management systems. This reuse may reduce freshwater usage to a very low level and assist in conserving water long-term in regions under water scarcity. This research offers vital information on a frequently neglected environmental concern in the bottled water sector. It stresses the significance of regulatory enforcement, regular monitoring, and enhanced treatment facilities in the provision of environmentally friendly operations. The research contributes to the larger discussion on wastewater management in industries and provides actionable directions towards pollution reduction and resource recovery through water reuse strategies.

Assessing Consumer Protection in Indonesia’s Cooking Oil Market: Lessons from the Minyakita Case

The Minyakita case in Indonesia highlights the vulnerable position of consumers vis-à-vis business actors, particularly concerning the accuracy and reliability of product labeling. This issue underscores the ongoing risks consumers face in accessing goods conforming to package labels’ quality and standards. This research aims to analyze legal violations in the Minyakita case, specifically those related to misleading or non-compliant labeling practices, and to examine systemic weaknesses in the regulatory oversight of cooking oil distribution in the Indonesian market. Furthermore, this study compares Indonesia’s regulatory framework with Japan’s, especially regarding product labeling standards and the oversight of essential goods. The research explores loopholes and law enforcement challenges within Indonesia’s existing consumer protection framework, particularly concerning using state-owned brands and distributing public goods. It also presents a comparative analysis of Japan’s consumer protection regime, highlighting Japan’s stronger institutional oversight, crisis response mechanisms, and market discipline. Findings indicate that although Indonesia has a comprehensive legal foundation for consumer protection, its regulatory enforcement and institutional coordination remain weak. This research concludes by offering five policy recommendations to enhance transparency, public accountability, and consumer empowerment, fostering a fairer and more resilient essential commodities distribution system.

The Evolution of Neodymium Cycle, Urban Minerals, and Trade in China

Neodymium (Nd) is a critical element for the global transition to clean energy, yet its long-term supply is constrained by trade dependencies, resource depletion and persistently low recycling rates. This study employs a dynamic substance flow analysis to quantify China’s stocks and flows of Nd from 2001 to 2021, and to assess the contribution of urban mining—i.e. the recovery of Nd from end-of-life products—to national resource availability. We also evaluate the effectiveness of recent government measures aimed at curbing illegal mining and stabilising domestic supply. With demand for Nd set to rise sharply in tandem with electric-vehicle and renewable-energy deployment, the results underscore the importance of: (1) scaling up closed-loop recycling infrastructures; (2) reinforcing regulatory oversight and enforcement; and (3) diversifying trade partnerships to bolster supply security. By shifting the balance toward secondary resources and robust governance, China can reduce its dependence on primary extraction and enhance the resilience of its Nd supply chain.

Perlindungan Hukum Merek Terkenal Dari Tindakan Persaingan Usaha Tidak Sehat di Era Digital

This research investigates the legal protection afforded to well-known trademarks against unfair competition in the digital era. The proliferation of e-commerce and online platforms has created new challenges for trademark protection, with instances of infringement, counterfeiting, and other forms of unfair competition becoming increasingly prevalent. This study aims to analyze the adequacy of existing Indonesian legal frameworks, including the Trademark Law and the Law on Prohibition of Monopoly and Unfair Business Competition, in addressing these challenges. Employing a qualitative research method involving legal doctrinal analysis and case studies of relevant court decisions, the study examines the effectiveness of current legal mechanisms in protecting well-known trademarks online. The findings reveal gaps in the legal framework and suggest areas for improvement, such as enhanced enforcement mechanisms and regulations specifically tailored to the digital environment. The conclusion emphasizes the need for a more robust and adaptable legal framework to effectively safeguard well-known trademarks in the dynamic landscape of digital commerce

The utilisation of scientific crime investigation methods and forensic evidence in the criminal investigation process in Indonesia

BackgroundModern crimes, including cybercrimes, financial fraud, and terrorism, are increasingly complex, transnational, and sophisticated, often leaving minimal traces that are detectable through conventional investigation means. As crimes evolve, forensic evidence plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth and establishing culpability. This study examines Indonesia’s regulatory framework for scientific crime investigation and forensic evidence, compares it internationally, evaluates its effectiveness across police jurisdictions, and analyses investigators’ perceptions of its use.ResultsThe regulatory framework for forensic investigations in Indonesia has been established through various legislative and technical provisions, including the Indonesian Criminal Procedure Code, the Law on Electronic Information and Transactions, and specific police regulations governing the collection, preservation, and analysis of forensic evidence. However, despite these regulations, the implementation of forensic science in criminal investigations remains inconsistent across regions owing to gaps in enforcement, lack of forensic infrastructure, and varying levels of forensic expertise among investigators. Between 2022 and September 2024, 1,068,595 criminal cases were recorded across 34 regional police departments and two national agencies. Polda Metro Jaya (170,712 cases), Polda Sumatera Utara (136,722 cases), and Polda Sulawesi Selatan (96,456 cases) had the highest crime rates. Crime peaked in 2023 (452,507 cases) before declining to 287,384 cases in 2024, reflecting improved law enforcement strategies. To evaluate the effectiveness of scientific crime investigations, Polda Metro Jaya and Polda Sulawesi Selatan were selected as representative samples of Western and Eastern Indonesia. Between 2022 and September 2024, Metro Jaya applied forensic methods in 56.5% of its cases, whereas Sulawesi Selatan used forensics in only 13.9% of its investigations. Metro Jaya focused on theft (28.8%), forgery (23.5%), and transnational crime (15.3%), whereas Sulawesi Selatan prioritised narcotics cases (88.3%).ConclusionsIndonesia’s legal framework supports the use of scientific crime investigation methods and forensic evidence through legislation and police regulations, yet challenges persist owing to inconsistent application, limited forensic infrastructure, and reliance on conventional methods. Regional disparities highlight the need for standardisation and increased resources. Investigator interviews confirm that forensic evidence strengthens legal cases and reduces wrongful convictions, but obstacles such as insufficient training, outdated technology, and weak regulatory enforcement remain. Comparisons with the UK, the US, and South Korea underscore Indonesia’s need for a national forensic body to enhance its forensic capabilities and the effectiveness of its law enforcement practices.

Rural Pakistan’s smokeless tobacco epidemic: a need for tailored interventions

BackgroundOral cancer is a leading cause of death in Pakistan, with a significant burden among rural populations. The primary risk factor for oral cancer in this region is the widespread use of smokeless tobacco (SLT). Despite international efforts to reduce tobacco consumption, SLT use remains prevalent. This study aimed to explore the experiences of a rural population with SLT use.MethodsThis qualitative study employed an exploratory, phenomenological approach in Gadap Town, a rural area near Karachi, to investigate how local socioeconomic realities and cultural norms influence SLT use. The interview transcripts of 28 SLT users (75% men, 25% women), purposively sampled, were included in the final analysis. Transcripts were thematically analysed after verbatim transcription and translation.ResultsFour major themes emerged: (1) Dynamics of addiction, including peer influence, familial patterns, and stress-related coping; (2) Risk perception, spanning awareness of oral cancer risk yet persistent usage; (3) Cessation journey, highlighting withdrawal challenges, emotional dependency, and limited professional support; and (4) Socioeconomic factors, notably the economic burden on households and calls for stricter regulation. Although participants recognized health hazards, they found cessation difficult due to emotional reliance and minimal external assistance. Socioeconomic factors, including the increased availability of unregulated, untaxed SLT products and limited free access to cessation support, were identified as critical influences. Participants emphasized the potential role of strict regulatory measures and relevant interventions in supporting cessation.ConclusionThis study highlights a critical disconnect between participants’ awareness of the harmful effects of SLT and their actual behaviour in attempting cessation. Despite being aware of the health risks, such as oral cancer, participants often continued SLT use due to emotional dependency and socioeconomic factors. Interventions that focus on culturally relevant cessation strategies, stress and financial management, and strict regulatory enforcement are essential to bridge this gap to support behavioural change.Clinical trial numberNot applicable.

Countering Pharmaceutical Fraud: Analyzing Pharmacist Competence and Policy Interventions in Falsified Medicines in Shymkent

Background Falsified medicines pose a severe threat to global healthcare, contributing to treatment failures, adverse health outcomes, and economic burdens. Aims This study aims to assess the awareness, detection capabilities, and reporting behaviors of pharmacists in Shymkent, Kazakhstan, regarding falsified medicines. Method A mixed-methods approach was used, incorporating a quantitative survey of 250 pharmacists and qualitative interviews with industry professionals. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, thematic analysis, and inferential statistical methods. The findings indicate that weight-loss medications are the most frequently falsified drugs in Shymkent, followed by erectile dysfunction drugs, weight-loss medications, and antibiotics. Most pharmacists relied on visual inspection to identify falsified medicines, but only 31% reported using formal reporting mechanisms, such as the Yellow Card Scheme. Notably, 72.8% of pharmacists actively reported cases of falsified medicines, yet many expressed uncertainty about detection techniques. A significant proportion of respondents lacked formal training in falsified medicine identification, and over half (51.6%) showed reluctance to participate in future training programs. Results This study highlights critical gaps in pharmacist training and regulatory enforcement, emphasizing the need for advanced detection technologies, enhanced regulatory cooperation, and pharmacist education initiatives. Strengthening the role of pharmacists in early detection and reporting, combined with the implementation of AI-driven verification systems and blockchain tracking, could significantly reduce the circulation of falsified medicines. Conclusion Future policies should focus on cross-border collaboration, stricter legal frameworks, and investment in pharmacist training to safeguard public health. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 24 No. 02 April’25 Page : 514-525

Climate Change, Industrialization, and Environmental Governance in Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand (2003–2025): A Review

Abstract This review paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the environmental transformation experienced by the Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, with a particular focus on Rudrapur, a rapidly developing town within the district. The transformation follows the wave of industrialization initiated by the establishment of the State Industrial Development Corporation of Uttarakhand Limited (SIDCUL) in 2003. The paper investigates the environmental repercussions of this industrial surge, focusing on key climatic and ecological parameters such as changes in average annual rainfall, fluctuations in temperature, and variations in groundwater levels over the past two decades. By drawing on a wide array of sources—including scientific research articles, government databases, satellite imagery, and field reports—the study provides a nuanced understanding of the environmental trajectory of the region. The review highlights the correlation between accelerated industrial growth, rapid urbanization, deforestation, and the subsequent environmental degradation that has ensued. Forest cover loss, encroachment on agricultural land, air and water pollution, and increased carbon emissions have all emerged as by-products of unchecked industrial expansion. The paper further explores how urban sprawl has altered land use patterns and contributed to ecological stress in and around Rudrapur. In response to these challenges, the paper examines the implementation and effectiveness of various government policies and mitigation strategies. These include the State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC), the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), biogas plant initiatives aimed at sustainable energy production, rejuvenation of traditional water bodies and ponds, and community-based afforestation and tree protection programs. By synthesizing past and current research findings with policy evaluations, the study identifies critical gaps in environmental governance and planning. It concludes by proposing actionable strategies for sustainable development and environmental conservation, with recommendations focused on integrated land use planning, stricter environmental regulation enforcement, and stronger community participation in ecological preservation efforts. Keywords Climate Change, Industrialization, Environmental Governance, Groundwater Depletion, Deforestation, Climate Resilience

Nicotine addiction and vaping in post-pandemic adolescents: Investigating the prevalence, neurodevelopmental impact, and pulmonary pathogenesis in relation to Covid-19-driven behavioral shifts

The post-pandemic era has witnessed a concerning global surge in adolescent nicotine consumption, primarily through the use of electronic cigarettes and vapes. This study investigates the epigenetic mechanisms underlying nicotine dependence in adolescents, the pathogenesis of vaping related pulmonary conditions, and the comparative health risks between vape use and traditional cigarette smoking. Adolescence is a critical neurodevelopmental stage marked by a heightened susceptibility to drugs and alcohol abuse and addiction due to significant plasticity in dopamine signaling and neurotransmitter activity. This literature review explores the rise in adolescent vaping and nicotine addiction in the post-COVID-19 era, emphasizing the interplay between neurobiological vulnerability, pandemic-driven mental health disruptions, and sociocultural influences. It investigates the developmental consequences of nicotine exposure on the adolescent brain, the pathogenesis of vaping-related pulmonary and systemic health conditions, and compares the health risks of vaping to traditional tobacco use. The review also examines the pandemic’s impact on adolescent mental health and how it intersected with substance use behaviors. It highlights the alarming resurgence of vaping among adolescents, driven by neurological sensitivity to nicotine, reinforcement learning, digital media influence, and inadequate regulatory enforcement. Finally, it addresses adolescent misperceptions surrounding nicotine addiction and underscores the need for effective prevention strategies, targeted education, and policy reform to mitigate the growing public health threat posed by adolescent e-cigarette use.

Exploring the Misuse of Public-Private Partnerships in Kenya’s Public Procurement: A Study of Governance, Accountability, and Implementation Challenges

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the Misuse of Public-Private Partnerships in Kenya’s Public Procurement. Methodology: In this research, a qualitative research methodology was adopted, with a focus on desktop research as the main method for data collection. Findings: The study found that Political influence significantly erodes the integrity of PPP procurement processes in Kenya. Often, politicians and government officials leverage their authority to get contracts for firms or individuals that matches with their interests, frequently disregarding the technical and financial qualifications of bidders. The findings also revealed that bribery among other incentives are major concerns in public procurement environment in Kenya, particularly in relation to PPPs. Public officials, as well as those that are involved in procurement, frequently solicit kickbacks from private Companies in return for preferential treatment in contract awards. Lastly, the study revealed that competition is significantly hindered by unclear tendering procedures, selective bidding invitations, and unfair disqualifications of competitors. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study provides a unique contribution to the theory, practice, and policy surrounding Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Kenya by highlighting the interplay of political influence, corruption, and institutional shortcomings in procurement processes. The Principal-Agent Theory and Theory of Institutionalism demonstrate how government contracts, intended to be executed transparently and efficiently, often suffer due to favoritism, nepotism, and weak regulatory enforcement. The findings emphasize the need for stronger regulations, transparent tendering procedures, and improved transparency to curb corruption and ensure competition. In practice, this demands reforming procurement laws, bolstering the capacity of oversight institutions, and ensuring a merit-based, transparent process. Policy wise, the study advocates for comprehensive legal reforms, the establishment of digital platforms for procurement management, and the enforcement of anti-corruption laws to foster a fairer, more competitive environment in public procurement, ultimately enhancing public trust and ensuring wise use of public resources.

Environmental Impact of Quarry Dust on Air and its Downstream Effects on Drinking Water Sources and Treatment Infrastructure

This study investigates the environmental implications of quarry activities with a focus on air and water pollution in the surrounding communities. By employing a combination of field measurements and remote sensing techniques, the study assessed seasonal variations in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) and key water quality indicators such as pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and nitrate concentration. The results reveal significantly elevated levels of particulate matter, particularly during the dry season and within 500 meters of quarry sites, surpassing recommended limits by the World Health Organization (WHO). Water samples from nearby streams and boreholes indicated contamination, with several parameters falling outside acceptable standards set by WHO and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). Additionally, satellite-derived indices such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) confirmed vegetation degradation and moisture loss in proximity to quarry operations. These results highlight the urgent need for sustainable quarrying practices and robust regulatory frameworks to safeguard both environmental and public health in affected regions.

Spatiochemical Analysis of Heavy Metal Contamination in Water Sources from Langalanga Mining Site, Bali L.G.A, Taraba State, Nigeria

Mining activities in developing nations like Nigeria drive economic growth but often result in environmental degradation, particularly through heavy metal contamination of water resources. This study assessed the concentrations of heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), and iron (Fe) in water samples from the Langalanga mining site in Bali L.G.A, Taraba State, Nigeria. Using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS), the analysis revealed significant exceedances of World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) limits for iron (1.0465 ppm vs. 0.3000 ppm) and lead (0.0348 ppm vs. 0.0100 ppm). While manganese (Mn) and nickel (Ni) levels remained below thresholds, anomalies such as negative values for copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in control samples indicated potential analytical challenges. The findings underscore the urgent need for stricter regulatory enforcement and remediation measures to mitigate health risks, such as neurological disorders and liver damage, associated with prolonged exposure. This study highlights the dual necessity of standardized methodologies and site-specific approaches in addressing mining-related water pollution in Nigeria.

Dispute Settlement Mechanism of WTO: Challenges and Solutions

The Dispute Settlement Mechanism (DSM) of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has been recognised as a fundamental element of the multilateral trading system, promoting the enforcement of trade regulations and enhancing predictability in international trade. Nevertheless, the mechanism has faced several structural and political obstacles in the last ten years that jeopardise its effectiveness and credibility. This paper provides a critical analysis of the development, operation, and current crisis of the WTO’s DSM, placing particular emphasis on the standstill in the Appellate Body since 2019, which results from the United States’ ongoing obstruction of judicial appointments. The paralysis at the appellate level has weakened the dispute resolution process and raised concerns about the rule-based framework governing international trade. The study investigates the inherent limitations of the DSM, including delays in adjudication, challenges with compliance, and power imbalances between developed and developing nations. It underscores how these challenges impede fair access to justice for smaller economies and impact the overall trustworthiness of the WTO. It engages with academic discussions and member-state proposals for reform, such as interim arrangements like the Multi-Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement (MPIA), procedural innovations, and broader institutional changes. While the WTO’s Dispute Settlement Mechanism is still crucial for sustaining the global trade order, its present obstacles call for immediate reform. Without comprehensive and collaborative initiatives to restore and modernise the system, the future of multilateral trade governance may trend towards fragmentation and unilateralism, jeopardising years of progress in international economic law. This study contributes to the ongoing conversation by suggesting balanced and implementable reforms designed to safeguard the integrity and functionality of the DSM amidst a swiftly changing geopolitical landscape.

A Study of the Perception of Outsourced Security Guards (Satpam) in the Jabodetabek Area Regarding Job Security

Job security is a crucial aspect of employment, especially for outsourced security guards (Satpam) in Jabodetabek, who face numerous challenges due to their contractual status. This study aims to explore the perceptions, importance, challenges, and root causes of job security issues in this sector. Using a qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with outsourced Satpam, employees of security service companies (BUJP; Badan Usaha Jasa Pengamanan), and users’ employees. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis. The results reveal six key elements of job security: benefits, salary, relationships with supervisors, work environment, career development, and job stability. Challenges include unfulfilled benefits, salary discrepancies, hazardous work environments, and job instability. Root causes are linked to poor BUJP management, weak contractual agreements, and limited regulatory enforcement. The study concludes with recommendations for regulatory reform, improved collaboration among stakeholders, and targeted training programs to enhance job security and professional growth.