Legislative Framework Research Articles

Ukraine's journey towards European integration: Successes and future outlook

A fundamental objective of Ukrainian state policy is the integration of the country's political, economic, and social structures with those of the European Union. This endeavour, referred to as European integration, constitutes a pivotal aspect of Ukraine's foreign policy. Since achieving independence in 1991, Ukraine has steadily progressed towards EU integration, with the aim of aligning its legislative and institutional frameworks with European standards. A landmark in this journey was the signing of the Association Agreement in 2014, which enabled Ukraine to establish a comprehensive free trade area with the EU and advance its reform agenda. This study aims to evaluate Ukraine's achievements and prospects in the European integration process. The research employs a systematic and comparative analysis of existing literature, drawing on historical and legal frameworks to identify key stages of Ukraine's European integration. Particular attention is given to the institutional adjustments required to align domestic legislation with EU standards, with a primary focus on economic reforms and their influence on the integration process, as well as the associated social transformations. The findings highlight that, despite notable progress, significant obstacles remain, including political instability, pervasive corruption, and external aggression from Russia, all of which hinder Ukraine's full integration into the EU. The practical significance of this study lies in its ability to inform recommendations for advancing Ukraine's European integration process. These recommendations have the potential to strengthen political and economic stability while improving the quality of life for the Ukrainian population.

Exploring Municipal Personnel Perspectives on the Viability of Shared Service Centres in South Africa’s Underperforming Municipalities

Shared Service Centres (SSCs) are considered efficient for tackling local government issues. Frequently, they are acknowledged for improving the quality, effectiveness, and efficiency of services due to the advantages of cost savings, risk management, cooperation, information sharing, reduction in duplication, enhanced productivity, and greater customer satisfaction. Although South Africa has had a legislative and policy framework (The Municipal Structures Act 117 of 1998) to establish SSCs in local government for over two decades, it has not been fully implemented to create viable and well-functioning SSCs nationally (Republic of South Africa, 1998). This paper examines the perceptions of municipal employees on the feasibility, possible benefits, and difficulties of implementing shared service centres in underperforming municipalities in South Africa. The study seeks to ascertain the employees’ perception of the potential impact of shared service centres on their municipality’s financial viability and service delivery. The data for this study were gathered using online surveys and focus groups, including 132 local government employees selected from 10 local municipalities across South Africa. The findings suggest that most municipal personnel view shared service centres as feasible to attain cost-effectiveness and enhance service provision. However, concerns regarding job losses, power shifts, and local government autonomy arose during implementation. This article argues that effective shared service centres can improve operational efficiency, service delivery, and financial sustainability by leveraging economies of scale. This reduces costs, improves procedures, optimises resource use, shares expertise, and unites efforts to address various municipality challenges. The research recommends robust governance frameworks to manage SSCs efficiently, ensuring accountability, transparency, and fair service delivery.

Reimagining the Legislative Framework: A Historical Analysis of Decolonization and Public Voice in India’s Law-Making

This scholarly inquiry delves into the historical trajectory of the legislative process in India, delving into its historical antecedents, the enduring influence of colonial governance, and the subsequent developments in the post-independence era. Employing a nuanced approach that integrates historical analysis and legislative case studies, the study illuminates the persistent impact of colonial rule on India’s legal framework, characterized by laws that primarily served the interests of the imperial administration rather than addressing indigenous societal needs. Through a focused examination of the Sonthal Parganas Act of 1855, this research underscores the enduring reverberations of colonial legacies within contemporary legislation and the ongoing endeavors to rectify historical injustices. Furthermore, the study scrutinizes legislative activities spanning from 2010 to 2020, offering a comprehensive portrayal of the dynamic nature of law-making in response to evolving societal challenges and aspirations. By discerning the intricate interplay between historical legacies, socio-political dynamics, and democratic participation, this investigation provides valuable insights into the formulation, amendment, and repeal of laws to address contemporary issues while upholding democratic principles in India. Ultimately, this scholarly exploration contributes to a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in India’s legislative landscape and underscores the persistent pursuit of equitable and just governance through legislative reforms.

Contemporary issues in upholding women's rights and gender Equality

On a daily basis, individuals are confronted with a multitude of challenging circumstances, including unfair treatment, interpersonal conflicts, and acts of aggression. The issue of gender equality is particularly pertinent in the present era, as it is evident that all individuals should be afforded equal rights, the right to self-realisation and self-affirmation, and the right to protection. The objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive account of the issues and achievements pertaining to gender equality and the fulfilment of women's rights. The study employed a range of methodological approaches, including theoretical analysis, synthesis, and generalisation; empirical sociological survey and description; and generalisation. The theoretical framework is as follows: The study concentrates on the pivotal issues of the gender system, its evolution, and the realisation of women's rights in diverse global contexts, including Europe. The authors conducted an in-depth analysis of the core issues and accomplishments in this domain. The sociological survey thus revealed the attitudes of Ukrainians towards the phenomenon of gender equality and women's rights, their understanding of the characteristics of the concept, and the legislative basis for its development. The findings of the research demonstrate the necessity for the establishment of a unified global system of gender influence. This will ensure the efficacy of achieving equality between the sexes and facilitate daily life for other marginalised groups in a more expedient manner. The article illustrates that the mere adoption of a legislative framework and inclusion in various international programmes are insufficient for the effective addressing of the issue of gender equality. It is imperative that the general public is made aware of the significance of gender transformation. It is essential to motivate and prepare the population for these changes. Furthermore, the collection and processing of statistical information on gender issues must be more efficient.

THE ESSENCE AND PROBLEMS OF DEFINING THE TERM «RURAL TERRITORY»

This article is devoted not to urbanized territories, but to rural territories. It turned out that when considering this term, there is a need for an in-depth study of the origins of the formation of the concept of "village". Historically, a village is both a diversity of resources and a place of production capacities and agricultural products. The village has always been a mirror of the spirituality of peoples, traditions and reflected its national exclusivity. The village is rich in natural biodiversity and cultural heritage. All this requires the need to study, develop and improve rural territories. But it turned out that in the Ukrainian legislation the concept of "rural territories" is not officially approved. The term is used in state acts, but its definition in the legal field is not officially. This concept has been studied by many scientists in different fields of scientific activity. The term "rural territories" is used in various concepts and development strategies, for example: "Draft Strategy for the Development of Agriculture and Rural Territories of Ukraine for the Period up to 2030"; in the legal field; in political slogans, etc. The term "rural territories" is used, but unfortunately, it has not yet been officially enshrined in law. And this has led to many problems, such as: confusion in the theoretical aspect, corruption schemes at the practical level, incorrect interpretation in regulatory documents, and with all this, the failure to allocate funds due to the uncertainty of the object, which leads to the decline of rural areas. But there is a fact of population migration from urbanized cities to the hinterland (villages, suburban areas, etc.). This is explained by poor ecology, the inadequate condition of Ukrainian cities, the development of viruses (Covid, hepatitis, etc.) in cities with a population of over a million, and military actions. Therefore, the article discusses some of the positive aspects of living in rural areas, and also studies the problems that a modern resident may face. Domestic and foreign researchers helped to understand the question of what "rural territories" are and what characterizes them. The article provides an interdisciplinary analysis of the definition of rural areas from different scientific points of view. There are many definitions in different countries. They vary depending on the economic, social, demographic and political characteristics of the states. In the article, we also gave our individual definition of the term "rural territories " from the point of view of a new look at town planning science. We consider it important to pay special attention to the development of rural areas in the urban development aspect. This study can help the Ukrainian Legislation and regulatory framework to achieve success in the tasks set on the topic of regional development. And it can also become a good foundation for subsequent scientific works.

RISK ASSESSMENT BASED ON THE OCCUPATIONAL RISK MAP OF PHARMACEUTICAL PRODUCTION WORKERS

The article is devoted to assessment of occupational risks threatening the health of pharmaceutical production workers. The process of identification, analysis and assessment of risks, as well as the development of measures to manage them in accordance with the legislative framework for labor protection are presented. The article provides an example of the application of these methods at the Scientific and Production Association «Mikrogen», which produces immunobiological drugs, and also examines in detail hazardous production factors for various workplaces. The final analysis presents the results of various risk assessment methods and confirms the importance of a systematic approach to labor protection in pharmaceutical production.

Planning assistance for families at risk of child rights violations (German experience)

The relevance of this study lies in examining the assistance planning mechanisms applied within the German child protection system. Assistance planning is a key tool used by the Youth Welfare Office (Jugendamt) to support children, youth, and their families. Its significance is particularly highlighted in the context of combating domestic violence, as well as in enhancing Ukrainian legislation in this area based on Germany’s extensive experience. The article aims to elucidate the legal nature of assistance planning in Germany, focusing particularly on mechanisms for working with foster families when biological parents are fully or partially restricted in their parental rights. The study considers situations in which a child is placed under guardianship due to threats to their physical, mental, or emotional well-being from biological parents. This approach helps illuminate the support procedures for children from the moment real threats to their welfare arise from their biological parents or from other persons or circumstances that parents cannot or will not address. The research methodology includes analyzing German legal acts, particularly the Civil Code and Book VIII of the Social Code, which regulate child protection. The article describes the assistance planning procedure, its stages, and mechanisms that ensure the involvement of all stakeholders in the decision-making process based on an individual approach. The main findings underscore that assistance planning is a complex but effective tool of state support, ensuring child protection against threats from the family environment. It involves an individualized approach, engagement of all parties, professional support, and regular monitoring. Assistance planning serves as a central instrument for supporting children and youth, also contributing to public order and safety. Germany’s experience in assistance planning is valuable for harmonizing Ukraine’s legislative framework in the field of social protection for children and youth, as well as for preventing and combating domestic violence. This procedure entails active involvement of parents, children, and specialists, aimed at tailoring assistance to meet the child’s needs, ensuring their development and protection.

PROPOSING A GOVERNANCE-RELATED COMPONENT AND INDICATORS EVALUTION MATRIX TO ASSESSING THE SOCIAL INCLUSIVENESS DIMENSION OF THE NEW EUROPEAN BAUSHAUS PROEJCTS

Governance is the political facet of ‘inclusiveness’, one of the three main pillars of the New European Bauhaus (NEB) projects, alongside ‘aesthetics’ and ‘sustainability’. Governance is embodied by rules and norms and implemented through hard tools (laws, planning designs and strategies, funding schemes, etc.) and soft tools (ways of decision-making, targeting, capacity building, etc.) to implement sustainable goals effectively and democratically. In essence, the article presents a methodological proposal for assessing hard and soft governance elements of projects and policies, including elements such as spatial planning legislation, participatory approaches, multi-level governance, and administrative capacity frameworks. As a case study, the analysis is focused on the assessment of governance-related components and respective indicators of the NEB inclusiveness dimension. The proposed methodological approach resulted from more than a year of systematic research and consultation with existing literature and external experts on hard and soft governance. Expectedly, it can be applied to assess the influence and impact of governance-related processes in all sorts of projects and policies, as increasingly policymakers seek to assess their degree of positive impacts, effectiveness, and efficiency. The proposed methodological approach can be of use to a myriad of interested stakeholders and be associated with multi-disciplinary policy evaluation tools.

Legal support for post-war reconstruction measures of land resources of Ukraine

In the article, the authors provided a description of the legal regulation of approaches, methods and measures of post-war recovery of land resources of Ukraine. It is emphasized that this topic is extremely relevant in the current conditions of the ongoing full-scale war, especially considering the circumstances that significant areas of land are degraded, unsuitable for use, mined, or are generally under occupation. The authors stated that one of the most important tasks of modern land legislation is the development and further legislative consolidation of legal methods of regulating land relations in the field of restoration. A prerequisite for this is a large number of Ukrainian land areas close to a critical condition. Fertile soils in Ukraine are recognized as one of the most important natural resources and national wealth. Military actions have the most destructive effect precisely on the most fertile layers of the land cover. Because of this, our country suffers numerous losses, primarily in the economic sphere, since almost a third of the world’s chernozems are concentrated on the territory of Ukraine. Natural recovery of these soil layers is extremely slow and may take tens or even hundreds of years. All this means that there is already a need for the development and legislative regulation of national strategies aimed at the accelerated restoration of soils after the end of hostilities on the territory of Ukraine. As well as the practical application of the developed methods and measures of land restoration in the territories where this is possible due to the absence of hostilities. The authors determined that approaches to restoration and reclamation of war-damaged land resources should be comprehensive and include legislative, ecological, economic and social aspects. A progressive idea seems to be the involvement of international aid (it can consist of various measures: provision of technologies and modern equipment; training and education of domestic specialists; provision of various methods developed in the field of land resource restoration; attraction of investors to finance various restoration projects, etc.). The authors conclude that the improvement of the legislative framework in the field of regulation of land restoration is an essential prerequisite for starting the process of reclamation of Ukrainian lands after hostilities.

Some questions regarding countering domestic violence among the population of Ukraine under the legal regime of martial law

In the context of the military conflict between Ukraine and the Russian Federation, there has been an increase in cases of domestic violence, driven by a range of social and psychological factors. The war significantly impacts societal stability, raising stress levels, emotional, and psychological tension among the population, which, in turn, contributes to the escalation of violence within families. Given these circumstances, the issue of combating domestic violence has become particularly urgent. Under current Ukrainian legislation, domestic violence is subject to both administrative and criminal liability; however, there is a need for updates and improvements to the legislative framework, as well as the development of new mechanisms for prevention and legal intervention to more effectively address this issue. The research results indicate that the dynamics of domestic violence in the context of war demonstrate its spread and changes in the forms and targets of violence, which affect women, men, children, as well as familial and close relationships. These changes require attention from both the state and society, as domestic violence poses a serious threat to the social health of the nation. The conclusions of the study confirm that domestic violence is an act of unlawful behavior, with a tendency to increase in Ukraine, and its nature is determined by both individual factors (psychological, physical, economic) and general sociolect-economic conditions. The practical significance of the study lies in the fact that the war has introduced new factors that contribute to domestic violence. This calls for the improvement of existing counteraction mechanisms, the strengthening of preventive measures, and the development of effective strategies for protecting victims. The results of the study confirm the need to activate cooperation between state authorities, human rights organizations, and civil society groups in the fight against domestic violence, as well as to ensure adequate legal protection for victims during this difficult period.

Non-lege artis, liability in medicine from the perspective of criminal and civil law

The authors in this paper address the specificity of criminal and civil liability for healthcare professionals and healthcare institutions, particularly concerning errors that may occur during healthcare provision. In practice, situations may arise where a healthcare professional fails to diagnose a patient promptly or correctly, or a bribe is accepted for a medical procedure. However, it is necessary to reflect on the issue of legal liability and the criminalisation of the healthcare profession, as well as whether every error in diagnosis constitutes an act of non-lege artis. The study also examines the nuances of legal liability in cases where healthcare professionals operate within ambiguous circumstances, emphasising the importance of expert evidence to evaluate adherence to medical standards. Furthermore, it explores the criminalisation of healthcare errors, questioning whether current legislative frameworks adequately differentiate between professional negligence and intentional misconduct. By analysing civil and criminal liability, the paper provides a comprehensive perspective on how healthcare professionals can navigate their responsibilities while minimising legal risks.

THE PROCEDURE OF DISMISSAL OF A JUDGE UNDER THE DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE IN THE SYSTEM OF GUARANTEES OF HIS/HER INDEPENDENCE: STANDARDS OF EUROPEAN JUDICIAL PRACTICE AND LEGAL REGULATION IN UKRAINE

Background: The article focuses on the issues and gaps in the legal regulation and practice of applying procedures for terminating the status of Ukrainian judges as a result of disciplinary liability. The study employs a combination of general and specific research methods, grounded in a philosophical approach, to understand the essence, nature, and particularities of national practice in light of European judicial law standards. By analysing the case law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), the article demonstrates that European legal frameworks have established comprehensive standards for due process in disciplinary proceedings leading to the dismissal of judges. However, an analysis of the Ukrainian legal system for dismissing judges reveals significant inconsistencies with these European approaches. It is argued that Ukraine’s current legal framework for judicial dismissal following disciplinary proceedings fails to enhance judicial transparency and does not fully align with the national constitution, European Union standards, or international legal norms. Considering Ukraine's ambition to further integrate into the European Union, the article stresses the importance of adopting best practices and reforming the legal framework governing judicial dismissals due to disciplinary offences that render judges unfit to remain in office. Methods: The authors utilised a range of scientific research methods, including dialectic reasoning, observation, synthesis, analogy, and both inductive and deductive analysis. Formal and formal-legal methods were employed to understand the structure, objectives, and nature of the dismissal procedure for judges. A systematic analysis method was applied to search for and review relevant case law, especially from the ECtHR and CJEU. The study's conclusions are drawn from empirical material, providing a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects. Results and Conclusions: The research results provide scientifically grounded proposals for improving the legislative framework governing the dismissal of judges following disciplinary proceedings. These proposals are developed in line with the legal approaches of the European Court of Human Rights and the Court of Justice of the European Union, particularly concerning protecting judges' rights as public officials and ensuring the guarantees of judicial independence. The practical significance of the study is reflected in specific recommendations aimed at optimising the process of dismissing judges from office, clarifying the legitimate objectives behind such changes, and improving the functioning of the High Council of Justice in evaluating the grounds and procedures for dismissals resulting from disciplinary offences. A key recommendation is introducing the "beyond reasonable doubt" standard of proof in disciplinary proceedings against judges, particularly in cases where their dismissal is being considered. This higher standard of proof would strengthen judicial independence by ensuring that dismissals are not the result of arbitrary or politically motivated decisions but are based on solid, substantiated evidence. The article emphasises the importance of these reforms for Ukraine’s legal system, not only in aligning with European legal standards but also in enhancing the transparency, fairness, and independence of the judiciary in Ukraine

Legal Implications of Pakistan's 26th Constitutional Amendment: A Critical Analysis

The 26th Constitutional Amendment of Pakistan represents a significant milestone in the country’s constitutional evolution, primarily addressing the longstanding demand for enhanced political representation in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). This study critically examines the legal and socio-political implications of the amendment, focusing on its impact on fundamental rights, federalism, and governance. Through an analytical framework, the research explores the amendment’s alignment with constitutional principles, potential conflicts with existing provisions, and the challenges of practical implementation. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing constitutional texts, judicial precedents, and comparative analysis to assess the amendment’s implications. Key findings highlight its role in promoting inclusivity and addressing historical disenfranchisement, while also identifying legal ambiguities and governance challenges. The research underscores the importance of clear legislative frameworks and effective administrative measures to ensure the amendment’s success. By situating the 26th Amendment within Pakistan’s broader constitutional history and comparing it to similar reforms in other federal systems, the study offers valuable insights into its significance for strengthening democracy and fostering national integration. This critical analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the amendment’s potential to shape Pakistan’s political and legal landscape while highlighting areas requiring further attention.

A Comparative Analysis and Development of Legislative Regulatory Framework of Naturopathy and Traditional Medicines Practices in Southern Africa Region

Objectives: Law and policy are critical instruments for enhancing health systems. The development of modern medicine relies heavily on stringent laws and policies. Additionally, the legislative framework for naturopathy and traditional complementary alternative medicines emphasizes the registration of both products and practitioners. This paper aims to examine the legislative regulatory framework governing naturopathic practices and other traditional complementary medicines in the Southern African region. Methods: This study involves a comprehensive review of various health laws and policy documents across Southern African countries. A country-specific analysis is conducted using keywords such as "naturopathic law," "naturopathic medicine practice," "legislation," "traditional medicine act," "alternative medicine act," and "healthcare laws." Results: The findings indicate that Southern African nations have well-established laws pertaining to naturopathy, as well as distinct regulations for traditional medicine. These countries recognize naturopathy and other complementary therapies as part of allied health professions. Moreover, there is a minimum educational requirement for registration as a traditional medicine healer, which applies to alternative complementary medicines. Conclusions: The research reveals that specific laws regulating naturopathic practice exist in Southern African countries. This commentary on the legislative regulatory framework for naturopathic and other traditional complementary medicines aims to inform public health decisions in Africa.

An exploratory study of the mandate and functions of national pharmaceutical services units: global trends and the cases of Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya, and Nepal.

National pharmaceutical services units (NPSUs) - organisational units within the central government usually responsible for pharmaceutical services and management - have an increasingly narrow mandate. Anecdotal evidence points to an increasing focus, almost exclusively, on logistics management, while pharmaceutical care and policy oversight have become fragmented. This study examined NPSUs' current functions and mandates, and proposed what should be the critical functions and roles of these units going forward. Using case studies of Côte d'Ivoire, Kenya and Nepal, the study relied on a literature review and in-depth interviews. We triangulated and synthesised the findings to identify NPSUs by level in the health ministry's hierarchy and reporting line, mandate, and function. We identified medicine regulation, procurement and supply chain management, selection and rational use of medicines, and pharmacy practice regulation as four broad sets of functions that NPSUs commonly have as their mandate. A clear position in the Ministry of Health's hierarchical structure, the legal or administrative framework that mandates an NPSU's functions, and national pharmaceutical policies and regulations to guide the pharmaceutical sector are three critical factors for effective functioning. It is essential to have a legislative framework that at a minimum identifies one NPSU as responsible for pharmaceutical policy and governance, serving as the steward for the pharmaceutical system. This role encompasses pharmaceutical system coordination and administrative functions, formulating and implementing policies for organising, managing, financing, regulating, monitoring, and evaluating the pharmaceutical system. As such, we recommend that NPSUs should at a minimum have four broad sets of functions: pharmaceutical policy and governance, medicine regulation, pharmacy practice regulation and procurement and supply chain management. The study substantiates the need for a pharmaceutical policy and governance unit that stewards the pharmaceutical system and is empowered to monitor and evaluate system performance and coordinate efforts for system strengthening.

Indonesia's Strategy Creating Halal Tourism for Sustainable Development Goals: Analytical Network Process Approach

Purpose: This study is to apply the Analytic Network Process (ANP) technique to analyse Indonesia's strategy for creating sustainable halal tourism. Given that Muslims make up the majority of the population, Indonesia has a lot of potential for developing halal tourism. Nonetheless, several impediments to its implementation exist, including a deficiency of human resources, infrastructure, and legislative frameworks. This study aims to improve the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of halal tourism by identifying these challenges and proposing strategic solutions grounded in ANP. Methodology: The methodology used is quantitative with an ANP study that allows a thorough examination of all variables that influence the growth of halal tourism. Participants in this research were 15 respondents including practitioners, regulators and academics specializing in Indonesian halal tourism. Data were analyzed using ANP software, paired questionnaires, and in-depth interviews. Findings: Inadequate infrastructure, subpar laws, and a dearth of knowledge and training for human resources continue to hinder the growth of halal tourism in Indonesia. Conversely, the measures that have been suggested entail enhancing the calibre of human capital, fortifying laws, and enhancing the promotion and advertising of halal travel locations. Originality: The ANP model has not been widely used in research related to halal tourism, this research applies the ANP technique to sustainable halal tourism in Indonesia. As a result, this research offers fresh insights in creating sustainable and more effective halal tourism strategies.

Exploring the Legal Theory and Practical Implications of Marital Family Rights

Objective: The relevance of the research topic is stipulated by the need to review and update the legal regulation of family rights and obligations in the context of modern social and legal challenges. Theoretical Framework: The issues of gender equality, protection of children’s rights and regulation of international marriages require special attention and modernisation of existing legal provisions. The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the theoretical, legal, and practical aspects of family rights and obligations of spouses. Method: The research methodology is based on the analysis of current legislation, comparative legal and historical legal methods, and sociological data. Results and Discussion: We have identified fundamental problems and contradictions in the legal regulation of family rights and responsibilities, such as gender imbalance, difficulties in regulating international marriages and insufficient measures to protect children’s rights and prevent domestic violence. Research Implications: Recommendations are made to introduce gender-neutral legislation, unified standards for international marriages, and strengthening measures to protect children’s rights. The author also emphasises the need for legal regulation of new forms of family relations, such as civil partnerships and same-sex marriages. Originality/Value: The results obtained have practical significance in developing recommendations for improving the legislative framework. This will contribute to improving the efficiency of legal regulation of family rights and obligations, protecting the interests of all family members, and strengthening the family institution in general.

Legal Implications of Pakistan's 26th Constitutional Amendment: A Critical Analysis

The 26th Constitutional Amendment of Pakistan represents a significant milestone in the country’s constitutional evolution, primarily addressing the longstanding demand for enhanced political representation in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). This study critically examines the legal and socio-political implications of the amendment, focusing on its impact on fundamental rights, federalism, and governance. Through an analytical framework, the research explores the amendment’s alignment with constitutional principles, potential conflicts with existing provisions, and the challenges of practical implementation. The study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing constitutional texts, judicial precedents, and comparative analysis to assess the amendment’s implications. Key findings highlight its role in promoting inclusivity and addressing historical disenfranchisement, while also identifying legal ambiguities and governance challenges. The research underscores the importance of clear legislative frameworks and effective administrative measures to ensure the amendment’s success. By situating the 26th Amendment within Pakistan’s broader constitutional history and comparing it to similar reforms in other federal systems, the study offers valuable insights into its significance for strengthening democracy and fostering national integration. This critical analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the amendment’s potential to shape Pakistan’s political and legal landscape while highlighting areas requiring further attention.

The evolving landscape of end-of-life care in Saudi Arabia: A socio-cultural, religious and legal perspective

The increase in life expectancy over the last century has brought with it new challenges of providing quality care towards end-of-life. Saudi Arabia has embraced this new challenge and incorporated it within its governing Islamic principles. The country has invested heavily in building the necessary legislative framework and infrastructural support systems to not only enable provision of palliative care but also improve the quality of end-of-life care. Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing end-of-life care, aligned with its Vision 2030, reflects a dedication to providing comprehensive, compassionate support to individuals facing life-limiting illnesses and to their families. The country has found innovative local solutions in order to address the challenges unique to its population. It has made significant progress in recognising the importance of palliative care and addressing the cultural, legal, and ethical aspects of end-of-life care appropriate to its ethos.

The Third Sector’s contribution to the implementation of adult education policies

The European Union’s policies on lifelong learning, initiated in the 1990s, have significantly influenced the development of Italy’s legislative framework in this area. This paper presents the key findings from a series of collaborative research projects conducted between Roma Tre University and the National Forum of the Third Sector. Undertaken between 2016 and 2023, these participatory studies focused on experiential learning among individuals employed within these organisations, as well as methodologies for competence recognition. The research on experiential learning has elucidated that all human activities can serve as learning opportunities, provided individuals engage in reflective practices to derive meaning from them. Within the contexts of lifelong and lifewide learning, the validation of non-formal and informal learning offers significant benefits for adults, fostering personal, social, civic, and occupational development, while reducing barriers to re-entry into formal education systems. For initiatives within non-profit organisations aimed at facilitating validation processes, a deeper understanding of the competences cultivated through such experiences is essential. The presence of recognised standards is deemed a crucial formal prerequisite for validation. The frameworks emerging from the presented studies demonstrate that activities within the Third Sector primarily promote the development of transferable competences, crucial for both enhancing technical–professional skills and fostering conscientious and proficient conduct in social and civic engagement. In this context, engagement in the Third Sector emerges as a catalyst for nurturing citizenship competences vital for navigating national and international transitions, promoting social cohesion, and advancing democracy. Through the findings of these studies, the Italian Third Sector has played a significant role in shaping public policies concerning lifelong learning and the validation of experientially acquired competences, notably regarding the incorporation of transferable competences into the National Repertoire. Additionally, some lines of action for influencing the implementation of validation policies at the European level will be discussed.