Governance Strategies Research Articles

A Tripartite Governance Strategy for Infrastructure REITs Considering Tax Incentives and Antiavoidance Regulations

A Tripartite Governance Strategy for Infrastructure REITs Considering Tax Incentives and Antiavoidance Regulations

ANALYSIS FACTORS AFFECTING COVID-19 MORTALITY USING COUNT REGRESSION

The ”2019 novel coronavirus” known as “ the 2019-nCoV” or simply“COVID-19” has been declared by the World Health organization (WHO), in first quarter of 2020, as a world pandemic and a public health emergency of international concern. Alas, many details related to the COVID-19 have remained unsolved completely. The success of government strategies in fighting the COVID-19 relays mainly on the results from epidemiological or statistical studies. Statistical models play a major role in providing reliable results based on appropriate analyses. Traditional (one-part) models, mixture models and mixed-effects models for counts are used to investigate effects of the WHO-regions and Cumulated COVID-19 cases on the outcome variable COVID-19 new deaths tolls. Overall result reveals there is a strong association between number of new deaths COVID-19 with predictors including the WHO regions and cumulated cases.Besides, models that account for the overdispersion feature have smallest AICs and have reasonable regression model fits.

Global prescriptions and local adaptations: the role of political culture in shaping governance strategies for university funding

ABSTRACT This article explores the influence of New Public Management (NPM) reforms on local higher education (HE) governance in the context of globalisation, focussing on the funding mechanisms of universities in Hong Kong and Taiwan. Through the development of an analytical framework for governance strategies, the study examines the principles underlying funding allocation and distribution decisions in these regions. The findings show that, although both regions adopt performance-based funding aligned with NPM principles, significant differences emerge due to their distinct political cultures and societal expectations. Taiwan’s strategy is characterised by regulatory oversight driven by societal shifts and electoral pressures, while Hong Kong’s approach is market-oriented, reflecting its British colonial heritage and alignment with industry demands. This study highlights the role of path dependency in shaping localised adaptations of global governance models, demonstrating the diversity and adaptability of HE governance strategies. The paper concludes by proposing directions for further research into the interplay between political culture and HE governance, advocating for the development of context-sensitive frameworks that address evolving governance strategies.

Dilemmas and Governance Strategies in the Implementation of the Modern Apprenticeship System in Chinese Vocational Colleges: A Perspective from Principal-Agent Theory

As China's industrial economy transitions towards high-quality development, the demand for highly skilled technical personnel has surged. The modern apprenticeship system, an important mechanism for deepening collaboration between educational institutions and enterprises, has been widely promoted within vocational colleges. However, nearly a decade into its implementation, this system faces challenges such as insufficient engagement from enterprises, loose relationships between schools and businesses, and a lack of assessment and feedback mechanisms. These issues have led to suboptimal outcomes in talent development. This paper innovatively applies principal-agent theory to expose conflicts in value demands, adverse selection, and moral hazards within the multifaceted principal-agent relationships among vocational colleges, enterprises, and the government. It proposes governance strategies that involve multi-stakeholder participation in policy-making, the establishment of qualification entry systems for cooperative enterprises, and the improvement of supervision and incentive mechanisms. These strategies aim to resolve conflicts and enhance cooperation efficiency, thereby providing robust support for the effective implementation of the modern apprenticeship system in vocational colleges.

Government schemes empowering Indian women: A study in the reference of Bihar

Many schemes being run by the government to empower women are now bearing fruit. These schemes are not only empowering the women of villages in India but they are also becoming aware of their rights. Bihar is the best example of this. Where today women's status has increased not only in jobs but also in the family. Women's respect and self-respect have both increased. Calling women weak is now a thing of the past. Women's interference and their participation has increased in every field of society and family. Today no family will be able to live happily by ignoring women. The schemes being run by the Government of India and the Government of Bihar to make women empowered and self-reliant have a big role behind this. In a developing state like Bihar, where earlier women not only used to go out under the veil but they also used to have less participation in the decisions of the family and society, but now this has become a thing of the past. Now women have become aware of their rights. Many laws have been made at the government level to protect their safety and their rights, which have proved to be a boon for the interests of women. After the liquor ban in Bihar, the safety of women has improved further. It is known that there is a liquor ban in Bihar since the year 2016. The effect of which has proved to be significant in the progress of women. In India, the population of women in the year 2024 is 48.4 percent. At the same time, the population of men is 51.6 percent. In India, there are 1,020 women for every 1,000 men. This is the first time that the population of women in India has exceeded that of men. Many schemes of the central government are only for women. At the same time, the Nitish government of Bihar is also running many schemes for women empowerment. The Modi government has taken many steps towards women empowerment. The benefits of which have been received by the women of the country on a large scale. Gender justice is an important commitment of the government enshrined in the Constitution of India. Several steps have been taken by the government in the last few years to promote a gender-just society and increase the representation of women in various sectors. In the last few years, India has been witnessing a rapid shift from women-led development to women-led development in the vision of a new India. Towards this end, the government has adopted a multi-pronged approach to address women's issues on a life-cycle continuum, encompassing educational, social, economic and political empowerment, so that they can become equal partners in rapid and sustainable national development. India is currently one of the 15 countries in the world to have a woman head of state. Several schemes for women empowerment in Bihar are being run by the Government of Bihar and the Government of India. Many of these schemes are related to sectors such as employment, agriculture and health. These schemes have been formulated keeping in view the situation of women in Bihar so that their participation in society can be increased. Without women empowerment, women cannot get the place in Bihar, country and society, which they have always been entitled to. Without women empowerment, she cannot fight centuries old traditions and evils. She cannot free herself from bondages and take her own decisions.

Navigating the ethical and governance challenges of ai deployment in AML practices within the financial industry

The rapid deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Anti-Money Laundering (AML) practices within the financial industry presents significant ethical and governance challenges that must be navigated effectively. As financial institutions increasingly adopt AI technologies to enhance their AML efforts, concerns regarding data privacy, algorithmic bias, and transparency emerge. This review explores the ethical implications of AI in AML and offers governance strategies to mitigate risks while ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. One of the primary ethical challenges in deploying AI for AML is the potential for algorithmic bias. AI systems trained on historical data may inadvertently perpetuate existing biases, leading to discriminatory practices in transaction monitoring and customer profiling. This raises serious concerns about fairness and equity in the financial sector. Addressing algorithmic bias requires the implementation of rigorous testing and validation processes to ensure AI systems function impartially across diverse populations. Data privacy is another critical issue. The extensive data collection required for effective AML monitoring raises questions about the protection of sensitive customer information. Financial institutions must establish robust data governance frameworks that prioritize privacy and comply with regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Ensuring transparency in how data is used and providing clear communication to customers about data practices is essential for building trust. Effective governance frameworks are crucial in navigating these ethical challenges. Financial institutions should adopt a multi-disciplinary approach that includes ethical guidelines, compliance measures, and risk management strategies. Establishing oversight committees can help ensure that AI deployment aligns with ethical standards and regulatory requirements. Furthermore, ongoing training for employees on the ethical use of AI in AML can foster a culture of responsibility and accountability. This review highlights the need for a balanced approach to AI deployment in AML, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations and governance structures. As the financial industry continues to evolve, addressing these challenges will be essential for maintaining trust, ensuring compliance, and leveraging AI’s potential to enhance AML practices effectively.

Revitalization of Tourism Village Facilities as an Effort to Increase Income and Sustainability

Developing village tourism in Indonesia is a crucial government strategy to boost the local economy and increase regional income. Villages with diverse assets such as natural beauty, rich cultural traditions, traditional cuisine, handicrafts, and historical sites have the potential to become attractive tourist destinations. This research focuses on Gunung Wangi Nature Tourism, which offers attractions such as sunset views, city lights at night, and camping activities. However, constraints such as inadequate facilities and infrastructure are the main focus of this research. Through a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) approach, this research offers solutions to revitalize the facilities and infrastructure and a long-term revitalization strategy to increase the attractiveness of Gunung Wangi. Local community involvement is integrated into every research stage, including problem identification, Focus Group Discussion (FGD), implementation, and evaluation. Revitalization efforts at Gunung Wangi Nature Park have shown positive results, with substantial improvements reported in post-revitalization evaluations. Feedback from stakeholders, including visitors, MSME players, and Gunung Wangi Tourism village managers, showed significant improvements in infrastructure and visitor experience. While a few respondents suggested room for improvement, the overall success is evident in the increase in visitor numbers, with the majority experiencing a significant increase. This revitalization has rejuvenated this tourist spot's attractiveness and boosted economic growth in the local community

9.X.1. Protecting the mental health of healthcare workers: evidence, policy and implementation challenges

Abstract Background There is growing evidence that highlights increasing stress levels and declining mental health among the global healthcare workforce, exacerbated by challenges within workplace environments, labour market and policy frameworks. These conditions place additional strain on an already vulnerable healthcare workforce and consequently threaten the stability of health systems as a whole, given the escalating challenges in retaining, recruiting and reactivating healthcare workers. Although the problems are evident, awareness is increasing and international organisations such as the WHO have advanced policy recommendations, comprehensive and context-specific interventions effectively addressing these problems at varying levels are missing. Objectives This innovative workshop offers a platform for bridging the gap between research evidence and policy interventions, stimulating policy learning and knowledge exchange across countries. The session provides an overview of existing knowledge and engages representatives of academia as well as national policymaking, and international organisations to critically discuss challenges as well as good practice experiences with a focus on implementation and problem-solving. The following major questions will be explored: What evidence is available regarding the mental health and wellbeing needs of the healthcare workforce? How are different countries responding to these needs and supporting healthcare workers more effectively? What are some best practice cases focusing on improving mental health support for healthcare workers across various groups, considering diverse needs, gender-inclusiveness, and minority groups? Finally, how can evidence-based policymaking be improved, and how can the implementation of these policies be advanced in a more effective manner? Thesession will encourage critical debate and identify major policy recommendations, focusing on governance and implementation strategies. In the second half of the session, the panel will engage the audience in an interactive discussion to explore novel solutions that prioritise the wellbeing of healthcare workers and effectively address the healthcare workforce crisis in a more person-centred and ‘humanised’ manner. The workshop supports cross-country learning and networking opportunities. Key messages • Mental health and wellbeing of the healthcare workforce is crucial for health system resilience and needs stronger advocacy for coordinated multi-level governance action. • Establish a health system and governance approach together with comprehensive monitoring and qualitative comparative workforce studies to identify transformational policies in contextual settings.

11.D. Scientific session: Participatory approaches and co-creation in complex interventions to reduce inequity in health

Abstract The escalating challenges posed by climate change and rapid urbanization demand an integrated understanding of how our natural and built environments influence health outcomes. This workshop aims to dissect the complex associations between the environment-both natural and constructed-and physical and mental health. The urgency and breadth of these issues necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, leveraging insights from environmental science, public health, and urban planning. The primary objective of this workshop is to elucidate the multifaceted relationships between environmental conditions and health, identifying actionable strategies to mitigate adverse health outcomes and enhance well-being. Specific goals include: i) to assess the current scientific evidence linking various environmental factors with health, highlighting the role of climate change; ii) to explore innovative methodologies for studying environmental impacts on health; and iii) to foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners for integrated health and environmental planning. Organizing this workshop presents several unique added values. First, it serves as a platform for experts from diverse fields to share findings and refine research methodologies. Second, by synthesizing current knowledge, the workshop will inform more coherent and science-based public health and urban policy. Lastly, it could facilitate networking among stakeholders, fostering collaborations that bridge gaps between research and policy implementation. The workshop is structured to ensure thematic coherence and maximally beneficial interactions among participants. Presentations will be grouped into four thematic blocks: 1. effects of climate change on health; 2. healthy design and public mental health; 3. Planetary health challenges to human health; 4. Climate change perception and mental health. During the workshop, each speech will be built on the previous one in a sequential way. At the end of the workshop, audience members could join the discussion offering their point of view and directly interacting with the speakers. This workshop stands as a crucial endeavor to integrate diverse perspectives on how environmental conditions impact health and to catalyze significant strides in public health and urban planning. It promises to not only advance scientific understanding but also to translate this knowledge into practical, scalable solutions for health resilience in our communities. Key messages • Urban health is foundational for sustainable cities, integrating health into all policies ensures inclusive, safe, resilient communities as outlined in SDG 11. • Public health influenced by environmental and local government strategies highlights the need for multidisciplinary approaches to adapt urban planning and health policies.

Drones and Technopreneurship in Malaysia: Unlocking the Economic Potential of Drones in Built Environment Development

Drones, with diverse technological capabilities, are poised to revolutionise various traditional tasks, particularly in-built environment development while driving economic growth, innovation, and job creation. Within the Malaysian context, drones have evolved beyond recreational use to become sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicles with untapped business potential. Against this backdrop, this paper explores a comprehensive review of drone development in Malaysia. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the review includes selected publication data from academic journals and online media published between 2018 and 2023, complemented with insights gathered from expert interviews. Aiming to bridge the discursive gap surrounding emerging drone technologies, the review focuses on identifying patterns and trends in recent Malaysian publications on drone applications, as well as understanding current issues related to its technology adoption. The thematic findings reveal a notable surge in interest in drone-related publications and draw clear connections between drone applications and diverse industrial sectors over the past six years. The paper emphasises critical issues such as community acceptance, the transforming landscape of business, diverse industry applications of drone technology, and government strategies for advancing drone technology. As a preliminary study, this paper establishes the foundation for leveraging the benefits of drone technology within the broader context of the built environment, social, and economic landscape. By shedding light on the evolving drone ecosystem in Malaysia, the paper contributes to fostering informed discussions and strategic initiatives in the integration and advancement of drone technologies. Thus, it offers valuable insights for professionals, economists, engineers, policymakers, and researchers alike.

Cybersecurity and the Future of International Relations

This research examines the growing influence of cybersecurity on international relations, focusing on how cyber threats, digital espionage, and cyber warfare are transforming state sovereignty, diplomacy, and global security. With the rise of state-sponsored cyberattacks and the increasing involvement of non-state actors, cybersecurity has become a central issue in the global power dynamics between major nation-states and international organizations. The study analyzes high-profile cyber incidents, such as the SolarWinds and Stuxnet attacks, and investigates their geopolitical implications, including how they have reshaped cyber norms and governance strategies. Through a comparative analysis of national cybersecurity strategies in countries like the U.S., China, and the EU, this research assesses the effectiveness of current international treaties, such as the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, and multilateral efforts to establish cybersecurity norms. Preliminary findings suggest that cybersecurity has evolved into a strategic tool in global competition, with cyberattacks being used for coercion and disruption. Moreover, the rise of cyber espionage has heightened the stakes in digital diplomacy, leading to the establishment of specialized cyber units within foreign ministries. This study advocates for the development of comprehensive international treaties focused on cyber governance, with an emphasis on conflict prevention, cyber deterrence, and collective defense mechanisms. Additionally, it calls for greater involvement of multilateral organizations, such as the United Nations and NATO, in creating transparent and accountable frameworks for state-sponsored cyber activities. The research underscores the urgent need for cohesive global governance models to address the complex challenges posed by cybersecurity in shaping the future of international relations.

TeleHelp Ukraine: A distributed international telemedicine response to the ongoing war.

Humanitarian crises frequently garner solidarity and robust volunteer recruitment among health care communities. However, a common obstacle is matching providers to those in need across geographic and other barriers. We examined the application of a decentralised governance strategy in establishing an emergency telemedicine response, TeleHelp Ukraine (THU). Using a case study approach, we explored how global networking and technological advancements empower organisations to generate, access, disseminate, and utilise knowledge for sustainable health care delivery. Preliminary results suggest that a non-profit, decentralised model strengthened by robust team dynamics may optimise the distribution of clinical workload and scheduling procedures. Institutional and cultural diversity among health care providers and volunteers fosters the mobilisation of knowledge resources, synergistic collaboration, and tailored care standards that align with both provider and patient expectations. By integrating these diverse, distributed networks, a synergistic effect is achieved, combining effective learning mechanisms with intellectual capital. Our study provides insights into the structure, implementation strategies, dissemination methodologies, and initial results of THU's operation. These findings may inform future emergency telemedicine responses in humanitarian scenarios, thereby reinforcing the practical implementation of health as a human right.

Local goal-based governance: A novel approach to environmental sustainability in China?

Abstract The recent emergence of goal-based governance at global scale may be considered as a new approach to enhance environmental sustainability at local level. This article examines how local goal-based governance actually unfolds with a focus on its fundamental features and effectiveness. We build a conceptual framework for local goal-based governance which consists of three key elements: nature of problem, setting the goals, and achieving the goals. It provides a set of theoretical propositions: 1) the problems with two defining features are more amendable to goal-setting strategies, 2) setting a specified, practical, and learning-focused goal structure as the key premise, 3) goal attainment is built around a campaign-mode experimentation to try and find out locally appropriate approaches, a double-layered engagement between civil society and statutory institutions, and a system to track the goals through quantitative and qualitative measures. Based on semi-structured interviews and documents analysis, we adopt a case study of Chinese local waste management to test the theory and explain the unique process of local goal-based governance. This article also discusses how local goal-based governance differs from the traditional rule-based governance and further explores how these two governance strategies interact with each other to realize local changes. We highlight two complementary effects: enabling and compensating. Local goal-based governance has unique strengths to compensate for the weakness of rule-based system in promoting civic engagement; and meanwhile rule-based governance creates favorable social conditions within which local goal-based governance is initiated and developed. The inherent limitations of local goal-based governance are also discussed.

A functional typology of exclusions: why and how women fail to access government schemes in India?

ABSTRACT Social exclusions in India are not solely a result of marginalised, personal identities. They are equally about the failure of the state to recognise those identities. With an expansion of welfare programs, the turf of exclusions is now actively shaped by the state. Drawing upon fieldwork in the drought-prone Marathwada region of Maharashtra (India), this paper outlines the pathways of how citizens fail to access government welfare schemes. The resulting typology of exclusions is a layered one, encompassing failures of state outreach, rejections of citizens’ claims, and inclusions in the schemes coinciding with exclusions from the benefits, fully or partially. Importantly, the exclusions are deeply gendered. During their lifetime, women end up going through multiple cycles of identity verification by the state; pre-marriage, post-marriage and once again, in widowhood or if the marriage were to fail. Ironically, even as the state extends its welfare resources to women through specific schemes, the underlying procedural requirements render women invisible.

Growth of Sari Business and Its Socio Economic Impact on Handloom Weavers in Varanasi

Abstract: Banaras, the oldest inhabited city in the world, is well known for its Banarasi saris. Its silk is one of the purest and radiant, whose softness and rich brocade have given rise to the sari industry. The Indian textile industry has an integral presence in the economic life of the country. Saris are made in either handloom or powerloom, with the latter gaining more significance nowadays. With increasing competition in the textile industry, power-loom alternatives have hit the market since they tend to be cheaper and target mass markets at lower prices. 1 But times have changed, and now weavers don't want to pass their art on to their kids or to the next generation. Due to the low income and unfavourable working conditions, weavers are no longer willing to work in this industry. The paper will focus on the socioeconomic situation of the weavers and how the revolutionising of the sari business has impacted the employment of the weavers. It discusses changes in the weavers' standard of living, access to education, and healthcare, along with their awareness about government schemes. It will also explore the reasons for the shift from handloom to powerloom and the problems leading to the weaver’s current situation. The data for the study has been collected through government websites, in-depth interviews, focused group discussions, and detailed surveys.

Mobilizing Global Change Science for Effective Multi-Actor Governance in the Laguna San Rafael and Guayaneco Biosphere Reserve

The 1950s initiated transformative shifts in human interactions and societal behaviors, exacerbating global environmental challenges—notably, biodiversity loss. The post-2020 Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) addressed these challenges with ambitious plans to halt and reverse biodiversity losses. Supported by initiatives like UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere program, the GBF seeks to enhance sustainability through country-level strategies that will mainstream nature-positive policies and expand multi-actor conservation governance. This study supports the local-level implementation of the GBF through a roadmap for the initial phase of the knowledge-action network creation. Through a case study of the Laguna San Rafael and Guayaneco Biosphere Reserve (LSRGBR) in Chilean Patagonia, this research explores the potential for inexpensive, readily available methods to support local decision makers by increasing access to and the visibility of relevant sustainability research. The study analyzes two decades of global change (GC) research within LSRGBR zones to understand spatial trends and identify applied insights with the potential to inform governance and management strategies. Findings highlight where GC research has occurred, areas of GC research interest, how applied content has manifested, and how existing research can inform and support governance action plans. Ultimately, this research proposes an adaptable knowledge mobilization framework for the LSRGBR that can be applied to a variety of place-based needs and contexts to mobilize science for broader sustainability objectives and enhance the potential for multi-actor collaboration and governance.

SaaS-Based reporting systems in higher education: A digital transition framework for operational resilience

The rapid digital transformation in higher education necessitates innovative solutions to enhance operational resilience. Software as a Service (SaaS)-based reporting systems emerge as pivotal tools that facilitate data-driven decision-making and streamline institutional processes. This abstract presents a digital transition framework for integrating SaaS-based reporting systems in higher education institutions, emphasizing their role in improving efficiency, accessibility, and adaptability in an increasingly complex educational landscape. SaaS-based reporting systems provide scalable solutions that allow higher education institutions to collect, analyze, and report data in real-time, fostering transparency and accountability. By leveraging cloud technology, these systems enable users to access critical information from anywhere, thereby promoting collaborative decision-making across departments. The framework proposed in this study outlines essential components for a successful transition to SaaS-based reporting, including stakeholder engagement, data governance, and change management strategies. The implementation of SaaS reporting systems not only enhances operational efficiency but also supports institutional goals related to student success, faculty performance, and resource allocation. With robust data analytics capabilities, institutions can identify trends and make informed decisions, ultimately leading to improved academic outcomes and resource utilization. Furthermore, the adaptability of SaaS solutions allows institutions to respond effectively to changing regulatory requirements and emerging educational trends. Challenges associated with the transition to SaaS-based reporting systems include concerns regarding data security, integration with existing systems, and the need for training faculty and staff. The proposed framework addresses these challenges by emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive implementation strategy that includes risk assessment, user training, and continuous support. In conclusion, adopting SaaS-based reporting systems within a structured digital transition framework can significantly enhance operational resilience in higher education institutions. By embracing these technologies, institutions can not only improve their reporting capabilities but also foster a culture of innovation and responsiveness to the evolving educational environment. Keywords: Saas-Based Reporting Systems, Higher Education, Digital Transition Framework, Operational Resilience, Data-Driven Decision-Making, Cloud Technology, Stakeholder Engagement, Data Governance.

A strategic optimizing carbon neutrality within profit and emission reduction efficiency: a stackelberg game analysis under a cap-and-trade scheme.

Carbon emissions (CO2e) are a main problem, and many countries are committed to reducing CO2e to attain carbon neutrality. To narrow this gap, this research considers green technology implementation (GTI) and CO2e quota in dual green gaming. The objective is to explore the integration of GTI and CO2e quotas into optimal production and pricing decisions in emission-generating companies (EGCs). To achieve this, a two-party simulation Stackelberg game model involving the CO2e strategy of EGCs and governments is proposed. We formulate a mathematical model and experimental methods to optimize EGCs' decision-making using neutral indicators. EGCs optimize production quantity, achieving CO2e reduction through ERE maximization. EGCs exhibit a strong commitment to ERE enhancement practices, enhancing profit and carbon-neutral goals. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of CO2e quotas and GTI as carbon-neutral indicators in EGCs, contributing to global CO2e reduction. Our research provides both literature and inspiration for global CO2e reduction efforts. Moreover, it aids governments in exploring optimal incentives and decisions for pricing and production. Last, this work enables EGCs to maximize profits and move toward a carbon-neutral environment.

Politico-Administrative Culture and Public Service Reform in Post-Independence Kazakhstan

Classical organizational management literature draws clear parallels between organizational culture and climate and effective use of power and influence as key to successful policy implementation of reforms in public sector organizations. On the other hand, the public policy literature, in particular, policy transfer as a strand within policy studies, emphasizes the role of the national context, more specifically, ‘facilitators’ and ‘constraints’ of ‘‘politico-administrative culture” within the national context, as crucial to understanding processes of transfer, convergence, and diffusion of public policy. There is a plethora of studies by Western scholars of public management who have successfully utilized these theoretical underpinnings to study the effectiveness of public service reforms in mature policy environments such as the UK, the US, Australia, New Zealand, and others. However, the public policy and comparative public management literature only offers a limited number of case studies from developing, middle-/upper-middle countries, which rely on concepts of organizational management in addition to narratives on the impact of policy learning from global doctrines, such as Weberianism, New Public Management (NPM), and New Public Governance (NPG), and national politics, on the implementation of administrative reforms in those contexts. Kazakhstan, as a resource-affluent post-Soviet country and a bastion of modernization and ‘open government’ in Central Asia or the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) in the post-Soviet era is a case in point. Based on ethnographic research consisting of interviews with elite academics, civil servants, and think-tank activists, as well as reviews of OECD and government strategy reports in Astana, the findings point to a potential abatement of the impact of context constraints such as large power distance and collectivist behavior by context facilitators such as those surrounding the use of ‘trilingualism’ and public diplomacy towards reforms in Kazakhstan particularly in recent years.

Spatiotemporal Evolution of Territorial Spaces and Its Effect on Carbon Emissions in Qingdao City, China

Land use change has always been a significant factor affecting global carbon emissions. Dissecting the characteristics of territorial space evolution and its impact on carbon emissions is crucial for developing low-carbon-oriented territorial space optimization and governance strategies. This paper calculates the carbon emissions associated with territorial spaces in Qingdao from 2000 to 2020, utilizing land use data alongside various statistical data. Based on the accounting results, the evolution characteristics of territorial spaces and their corresponding carbon emissions, as well as the carbon transition dynamics resulting from space transfer, are analyzed. A carbon transition decomposition formula is then proposed to quantify the differential and spatially heterogeneous impacts of changes in space types and socio-economic development on emissions. The results indicate that: (1) the evolution of territorial spaces in Qingdao during 2000–2020 is characterized by an expansion of living space and a contraction of production and ecological spaces; (2) net carbon emissions rose from 313.98 × 104 tons to 1068.58 × 104 tons, with urban production space contributing the most (69.96% in 2020) due to its significantly high emission density. The spatial distribution of carbon emissions exhibited a stable “northwest–southeast” pattern, with increased dispersion and weakened directionality; (3) the transformation of territorial spaces promoted carbon emissions in Qingdao, with the conversion of urban production space to other uses yielding the most favorable carbon transitions, while the expropriation of agricultural production spaces for urban production and residents’ living has resulted in the most detrimental carbon transitions; (4) socio-economic development shapes the overarching pattern of regional emission density changes, whereas space transfers account for local variations. This paper also identifies priorities for spatial optimization and key sectors for emission reduction. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the carbon emission consequences of territorial space transformation in Qingdao, thereby providing valuable insights for regional spatial planning and optimization aimed at promoting low-carbon development.