Government Ministries Research Articles

A Scoping Review of Existing Policy Instruments to Tackle Overweight and Obesity in India: Recommendations for a Social and Behaviour Change Communication Strategy

Background The Indian government is committed to address various manifestations of malnutrition, including overweight and obesity, inorder to improve individual health and well-being. The scoping review aims to map existing national policy instruments (programmes, schemes, regulations and guidelines) addressing overweight and obesity in India and analysing them for Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) strategies. Methods Systematic identification and selection of policy instruments using ‘Arksey and O’Malley’ framework was conducted from central government ministry websites, between March and June 2023. These instruments focused on nutrition and/or physical activity, targeting specific demographic groups like pregnant women, lactating mothers, children (0-5 years and 5-9 years), or adolescents (10-19 years); excluding those focusing on specific diseases like micronutrient deficiencies, wasting, and stunting. Based on search strategy six policy instruments were included and analysed for SBCC strategies. Results While many policy instruments incorporated SBCC plans; the ‘National Programme for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)’ stands out as a significant policy initiative specifically targeting the prevention of overweight and obesity within the broader context of Non-Communicable Diseases. It adopts a comprehensive approach addressing key drivers contributing to overweight/obesity across multiple levels of behavioural influence i.e., individual, interpersonal, community and organisation for health promotion. However, there’s need to strengthen SBCC strategies related to prevention and management of obesity, especially screening and counselling, to cover all age groups with a particular focus on adolescents and youth. SBCC strategies can also be incorporated into India’s Integrated Nutrition Support Programme (POSHAN 2.0) and/or Reproductive, Maternal, New-born, Child, Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) under the National Health Mission. Conclusion This paper underscores the necessity for comprehensive strategies to address multifaceted origin of overweight and obesity. The NP-NCD stands out as a noteworthy initiative, and there is considerable potential for other programmes to emulate it SBCC strategies to bolster their overall effectiveness. Note : *Policy instrument’s throughout the paper has been used to cover programmes, schemes, regulations and guidelines.

The Scientist, the Therapist, and the Conspiracy Theorist: Three Responses to the COVID-19 Pandemic Within the Ultra-orthodox Jewish Revival Movement in Israel.

This article examines the responses of three rabbis to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in Israel and the distinctive approach and strategy expressed by each of them: (1) rational-scientific, (2) emotional support, (3) resistance and distrust. The first two rabbis maintain that they trust the medical institutions and the government, whereas the third rabbi evinces distrust, expressed through conspiracy theories. These different approaches can be explained by their dispositions prior to the pandemic, which were exacerbated by the Coronavirus. Hence, COVID-19 served as more of a reflecting phenomenon than an agent of change. Analyzing the dispositions of the three rabbis can show us how they are related to two significant forces of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries-science (rational-scientific and resistance and distrust) and psychology (emotional support). Psychological discourse has been used to promote public health. On the other hand, the scientific discourse has been used to promote adherence to government and health ministry directives, as well as to oppose those directives.

A Pilot Survey Linking Antecedents of LMX Relationships and PWDs Institutions Performance: An Assessment of PWDs Institutions in Kenya

The modern working world has made strides in building a stronger equitable society. There has been great resilience in including policies that ensure persons living with disability play their economic role. The current study was guided by two objectives: effect of transformational leader-characteristics as antecedents of LMX on organization performance in PWDs in Mombasa and Kilifi Counties and moderating effect of organization culture on LMX and organization performance in PWDs institution in Mombasa and Kilifi Counties; Leader-Member exchange theory and social exchange theory formed the theoretical foundation of this study. A conceptual framework showing the correlation of the study’s variables is also given. The study applied descriptive research design and the target population of the study was managers and subordinates at all levels within the organizations. Stratified sampling, convenience sampling and random sampling techniques were used to generate the sample size. A sample size of twenty-five (25) respondents two (2) to three (3) employees from every department. Semi-structured questionnaires were used for the study. The study conducted and applied Cronbach alpha reliability estimate. The study used quantitative and qualitative methods to analyze data. The study results provided a good governance framework of engaging their business networks within their localities. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) for windows version 21 was used. One of the significant findings was the realization that there was an increment in leader-characteristics of leaders in organizations. One of the conclusions of the study was that when leaders believe in their own abilities this often-enhanced LMX relationships hence improved organizational performance. A key recommendation of this study was the need for the Government ministries concerned with PWDs mainstreaming in the organizations have specific leadership practices that help build effective LMX relationships in organizations.

Socially Responsible Human Resource Management Practices and Job Satisfaction of Public Servants with Disabilities in South-West Nigeria

Overt ill-treatments from management and co-workers have often led to job dissatisfaction and discouraged other persons with disabilities keen and able to join the workforce. Persons with disabilities continue to suffer employment-related and other forms of discrimination, resulting in low job satisfaction and job discontentment. These conditions accentuate the need for socially responsible human resource management practices in organisations. This study examined socially responsible human resource management practices and job satisfaction of public servants with disabilities in South-West Nigeria. Survey research design was adopted for this study. The study’s sample size of 422 public servants and leaders was determined using total enumeration sampling technique. A structured and validated questionnaire and semi-structured interview were used to obtain quantitative and qualitative data. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients for the constructs ranged between 0.69 and 0.84. The response rate was 95%. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential (multiple linear regression and hierarchical regression) statistics. The study found that SRHRM had a statistically significant effect on job satisfaction (Adj.R2 = 0.53, F(5, 410) = 92.07, p < 0.05). The interviews indicated that only two of five States had a deliberate strategy driving recruitment of persons with disabilities. A vast majority were employed as teachers in special schools, and diverse administrative roles across government ministries, departments and agencies. All States provided varying degrees of basic support and benefits, and stated that the employment of persons with disabilities was influenced by its leadership and affected organisational reputation. The study concluded that SRHRM affects job satisfaction of public servants with disabilities in South-West Nigeria. The study recommended that the government, in conjunction with institutional stakeholders and advocacy groups, should facilitate the adoption of SRHRM practices in South-West Nigeria. In addition, the involvement of the private sector and provision of financial grants and subsidies for employers would enhance wider employment, inclusion and quality organisational support for persons with disabilities.

Using spirometry for screening and diagnosis of chronic respiratory diseases in primary health care: findings from a community health project in rural India

Background Chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) such as Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Asthma and post-tuberculosis lung disease (PTLD) are a growing public health concern in India. Early diagnosis and management of CRDs require a good quality spirometry test, a technician to conduct spirometry and a chest physician to interpret the results. In India, these are not available at the primary care level. This study reports the feasibility of a large-scale CRD diagnosis and management program in primary care using a unique point-of-care spirometry solution, Briota PFT in a Box™. # Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 15,602 adults in Dindori Taluka (subdivision), Nashik, Maharashtra state. This study was part of a holistic CRD diagnosis and management program SAVE™ (Spirometry Assisted Virtually Early). Make In India point of care solution Briota PFT in a Box™ was used. A House‐to‐house community-based assessment checklist (CBAC) survey, 4-parameter spirometry test, 15-parameter pre and post-bronchodilator spirometry test and a software-assisted medical examination by the medical officer at primary care were conducted. Software was used to generate CRD diagnosis and lung health score (LHS™). The diagnosis was verified by the chest physician. Confirmed diagnosed patients were provided treatment and offered a patient support program. Interviews were conducted with the patients, nurses, doctors and public health officials for understanding feasibility and documenting learning from program SAVE™. # Results Out of 15,602 adults surveyed, total 4,937 (31.6%) were identified as “CRD high risk”. 1231 participants based on medical examination, spirometry tests and software analysis were identified as CRD candidates by medical officers at primary care. 1154 participants out of 15,602 (7.4%) were confirmed diagnosed as CRD patients post independent evaluation by chest physicians. At the time of follow-up, 537 patients (75% of 712 patients enrolled in patient support program) reported improvement in symptoms and high satisfaction with the program. District health officer, Medical officers, nurses, Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) from the primary health care centers confirmed ease of use and feasibility of using Briota PFT in a Box™ in program SAVE™. Outcome and learning from program SAVE™ was documented and submitted to Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Government of India. # Conclusions CRD diagnosis and management in large scale settings in primary healthcare level using a point of care spirometry solution Briota PFT in a Box™ is highly feasible.

소방특별사법경찰의 수사에 관한 직무집행능력 향상 방안연구

This study focuses on fire special judicial police and measures to improve their ability to carry out their duties regarding investigations by securing expertise as the subject of investigation of violators of fire laws and regulations in the area of fire administration, improving the hiring system, establishing a unified investigation-only organization, and strengthening the education and training system. The purpose is to present. The research method was an exploratory analysis of related previous research papers, statistical yearbooks such as the National Fire Agency, operation cases in foreign countries such as the United States, various government reports, homepages of Korean government ministries, and media reports. As a result of the analysis, there are only a very small number of personnel dedicated to investigative work, most of them hold other positions concurrently, the investigative position does not have a division-level structure, so independence is not secured, there is no public recruitment or special recruitment system for fire chiefs or lower to perform front-line investigative work, and no training for job training. Course opening was also insufficient. In conclusion, avoid the new investigative field recruitment or special recruitment system and rotational personnel system, designate the fire and special judicial police duties as a specialized field, ensure job continuity, establish a unified organization, develop a job training course, and complete at least 6 months of professional training. The introduction of an education system should be implemented quickly.

Data-Driven Strategies for Optimizing Albania’s Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources from Urban Waste: Current Status and Future Prospects

Albania is now implementing a range of steps as part of its journey towards European Union integration, based on agreements that have been achieved. Key to these initiatives is the extensive adoption of circular economy concepts through comprehensive waste management systems. This collaboration is based on systematically implementing measures that align with the fundamental principles of the waste management hierarchy. Albania wants to lead in waste-to-energy conversion exploration by focusing on trash minimization, reuse, recycling, and energy generation from residual waste. Although there has been notable advancement, especially in aligning laws with EU requirements, there are practical obstacles, especially in the execution of waste-to-energy projects. The challenges involve the need for effective waste segregation, higher recycling rates, and the use of advanced waste-to-energy technologies. The essay utilizes meticulously selected data on Albania’s waste generation from reputable organizations and the legal framework regulating waste management to assess the current situation and predict future possibilities, which may be advantageous for government ministries and agency platforms.

A comprehensive framework for strategic knowledge management in civil service organisations of Mauritius

The acquisition and utilisation of knowledge possessed by employees within an organisation, particularly in the context of the Civil Service, can be a crucial asset in achieving the organization's continuous business goals and objectives. This study investigates the methods and implementation of Knowledge Management (KM) in the public service Organisations of Mauritius. The objective is to identify the attributes that contribute to the effectiveness of knowledge management (KM) and address significant obstacles in the KM process. The objective of this study is to increase awareness of Knowledge Management (KM) as a feasible option for enhancing the efficiency of civil service organisations. The study results imply that knowledge management in civil service organisations is still in its nascent phase, indicating a significant need for advancement in the whole knowledge management process. This study examines the present condition of knowledge management in the civil service organisations of Mauritius. The study primarily aimed to collect empirical data on the subjective impressions, attitudes, and perspectives of the respondents or interviewers regarding the investigated issues. The study use interpretive methodology rather than positive approaches. Nevertheless, this research solely concentrates on the 25 governmental ministries of the Republic of Mauritius. The proposed framework is anticipated to be easily implemented in para-statal entities and government-owned firms, necessitating only minimal adjustments. The objective of this project is to build an empirical basis for the creation of a knowledge management system tailored to the needs of Civil Service Organisations. This study focuses on analysing the mechanisms of Knowledge Management (KM) and their impact on productivity and efficiency in Mauritian Civil Service Organisations.

Housing Crisis in England: A Comparative Policy Paper on the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG)

The housing crisis in the UK is imperilling what Abraham Maslow described as a vital physiological necessity. This paper examines how the housing issue in the UK is complicated by the policy intricacy of The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and the capability of the management and workforce to adapt to a changing political agenda, public administration and the current as well as the concomitant issues in the housing sector. It explores and focuses on core policy elements and how they impact the housing crisis. These policy factors include accountability and transparency, institution administration and style, network governance, data management and communication, strategic and policy-making systems and response to emerging agendas in public administration and governance. This study reveals the severity of the housing issue’s problems and offers important advice that will help remedy the UK’s housing quandary to accomplish this research objective, a mixed research approach was used, which helped in the presentation of findings that showed how the situation has affected the UK. Lastly, the study will assess the internal and exterior difficulties MHCLG faces in carrying out its duties and examine how it has responded to recent developments in governance.

Explaining differences in research utilization in evidence-based government ministries

Studies of evidence-based policy have found that research often fails to influence policy-making and identify a number of barriers to research utilization. Less is known about what public administrations do to overcome such barriers. The article draws on a content analysis of 1,159 documents and 13 qualitative interviews to compare how and why evidence standards affect research utilization in two Danish ministries with available evidence, policy analytical capacity, and broad political agreement on key policy goals. The article finds support for the proposition that more exclusive evidence standards in ministries will lead to higher levels of research utilization by showing that average levels of research utilization are higher in the Ministry of Employment than in the Ministry of Children and Education in the period 2016?2021. In active employment policy the adoption an evidence hierarchy and the accumulating evidence in a knowledge bank has interacted with stakeholder support and a continued coordination with the Ministry of Finance to provide economic incentives for policy-makers to adopt evidence-based policies thus stimulating research utilization. Evidence for public education policy, by contrast, has been more contested and the Ministry of Children of Education retains inclusive evidence standards in an attempt to integrate evidencebased and practical knowledge from stakeholders, which has led to lower average levels of utilization in the period.

Effect of Financial Forensic and Fraud Auditing on Fraud Management in Selected Federal Government Ministries in Nigeria

Despite the solidification of forensic accounting in government parastatals, the objectives are not attained at the expected level. This study examined the effect of financial forensic and fraud auditing on fraud management in selected Federal Government Ministries in Nigeria. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population for this study consists 1550 staff in the Office of Auditor General for the Federation. Three hundred and forty-nine (349) questionnaire were administered, primary data was collected using 5-point Likert scale structured questionnaire for the study. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to model the regression analysis. The study found that financial forensic and fraud auditing have positive and significant effect on fraud management. Based on the findings, the study concluded that the greater the intensity of financial forensic and fraud auditing the better the fraud management in Federal Government Ministries in Nigeria. It is recommended that Federal Government Ministries in Nigeria should invest in building and enhancing their financial forensic capabilities. This can be achieved by providing training and resources to personnel involved in fraud management, such as forensic accountants, investigators, and auditors. Also, the study recommends that Federal Government Ministries in Nigeria should focus on building and strengthening their fraud audit capabilities. This can be achieved by providing specialized training to auditors and investigators involved in fraud management. Keywords: Financial forensic; Fraud auditing; Fraud management

CHALLENGES IMPEDING THE ADOPTION OF E-PROCUREMENT BY PUBLIC SECTOR ORGANISATIONS (MINISTRIES, DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES) IN SIERRA LEONE – A SURVEY

The introduction and adoption of public procurement and e-procurement processes as recommended by donor organisations for governments of developing and/or under-developed countries has not achieved the intended objective of value for money. The human and material resources poured into building the capacities of countries like Sierra Leone could be considered as one of the steps of achieving the milestone i.e. value for money. The objective of this study is to examine the factors affecting e-procurement in organizations taking into consideration three factors including the value of e-procurement, e-procurement capability and e-procurement models. Data was collected through the use of a questionnaire targeted at procurement practitioners and Specialists and Heads of government ministries, departments and agencies using convenience sampling which is one of the methods of non-probability sampling. Descriptive statistical analysis techniques were employed for data analysis. Findings from the study revealed that a vast majority of the respondents believe that inadequate or limited capacity, credit facility or credibility and rigid laid-down rules of public procurement procedures and processes are the impediments responsible for the adoption and implementation of e-procurement in Sierra Leone. The paper recommends that the Government of Sierra Leone should put the necessary ICT infrastructure in place, review the current procurement act and adopt the implementation of e-procurement in order to achieve value for money.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0787/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Regional development policy in Galilee periphery in Israel

AbstractIn Israel, regional clusters serve as a mechanism for regional development, achieved through the integration of interests, pooling of resources, knowledge transfer, and the facilitation of agglomerations. This study gains insights from two EU regional development programs, LEADER and URBACT, to potentially benefit the regional clusters in Galilee, Israel's northern periphery. The research examined five municipal clusters in Galilee, aiming to identify their distinct characteristics and place them within a wider theoretical and comparative framework. A qualitative research approach was adopted, involving semi‐structured interviews with the clusters' CEOs and an analysis of pertinent policy documents. The findings suggest that Galilee's municipal clusters encounter challenges similar to those faced by the EU's LEADER and URBACT programs. These include establishing regional networks, achieving recognition for their capabilities, and cultivating trust and cooperation gradually. The CEOs shared their experiences in navigating the challenges posed by wary mayors and government ministries. The recognized success of these clusters, as evidenced in policy documents, could signify a shift from Israel's traditional centralist political culture to a more decentralized power structure.

Application of E-Services in the Urban Local Government in Bangladesh: A Study on Rajshahi City Corporation

Public sector information and communication technology (ICT) has a long history of using mainframe operations in the 1970s and microcomputing in the 1990s. It is recognized by the Government of Bangladesh that ICT has a development impact, as it enhances access to information, the quality of public service delivery and strengthens good governance practices. Since the ending of 2019, the outbreak of the Covid-19 epidemic has revived the importance of e-governance. In the initial stage of this climacteric period when people were socially distanced, restricted in quarantine, and not interacting face-to-face with each other created a whale of a ponderosas of e-governance in Bangladesh. Without any doubt, e-governance is the prime catalyst for urban development. Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) is one of the oldest and leading municipalities in e-governance adaptation in Bangladesh. RCC, jointly with the local government division under the ministry of local government, has introduced e-governance through initiating an electronic birth registration information system (EBRIS) in 2001. This is one of the best paradigms for adapting e-governance at the urban local government level in Bangladesh. As a part of e-governance, RCC has launched Smart Auto-Rickshaw Management System (SARMS) to reduce traffic congestion on city roads. The study, based on primary sources of information, seeks to assess the role of SARMS in reducing traffic congestion on city streets as part of e-governance. In order to properly implement e-governance in Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC), researchers have come up with two recommendations for e-service providers following two broad sections. A rich ICT infrastructure is a prerequisite for providing e-services to the recipients. This study is based on empirical research. This first section of this paper is equipped with the details of the respondents, overall opinions of the respondents on e-governance are covered by second section, the third section is depictured the status of e-services in RCC. However, the last section is enclosed by the specific opinions of the respondents on EBRIS and SARMS.

School Electricity Consumption in a Small Island Country: The Case of Fiji

Electricity consumption in buildings is one of the major causes of energy usage and knowledge of this can help building owners and users increase energy efficiency and conservation efforts. For Pacific Island countries, building electricity demand data is not readily accessible or available for constructing models to predict electricity demand. This paper starts to fill this gap by studying the case of schools in Fiji. The aim of the paper is to assess the factors affecting electricity demand for grid-connected Fijian schools and use this assessment to build mathematical models (multiple linear regression (MLR) and artificial neural network (ANN)) to predict electricity consumption. The average grid-connected electricity demand in kWh/year was 1411 for early childhood education schools, 5403 for primary schools, and 23,895 for secondary schools. For predicting electricity demand (ED) for all grid-connected schools, the stepwise MLR model shows that taking logarithm transformations on both the dependent variable and independent variables (number of students, lights, and air conditioning systems) yields statistically significant independent variables with an R2 value of 73.3% and RMSE of 0.2248. To improve the predicting performance, ANN models were constructed on both the natural form of variables and transformed variables. The optimum ANN model had an R2 value of 95.3% and an RMSE of 59.4 kWh/year. The findings of this study can assist schools in putting measures in place to reduce their electricity demand, associated costs, and carbon footprint, as well as help government ministries make better-informed policies.

“Prison Life Can Make You Go Crazy”: Insights Into the Situation for People With a Mental Illness in the Malawi Prison System

Little is known with regard to due process and forensic assessment capacities in Africa, where over one million are deprived of their liberty on any given day. A rapid situation assessment explored multi-stakeholder perspectives regarding the situation of people with a mental illness in the Malawi prison system. In-depth interviews were conducted with 10 regional professional stakeholders, 18 former prisoners, and five prison staff from two maximum-security prisons. Reflexive thematic analysis yielded five themes; occurrence of mental illness among people living in prison; prison environment exacerbating harm and levels of mental illness; security responses to the presence of psychiatric disorders; availability and coverage of specialist psychiatric and psychological care; and diversion, other non-custodial measures and continuity of care on release. Narratives highlight the substantial causal impact of the prison environment in amplifying existing and new mental illness, vulnerability and exploitation of people with a mental disorder. Malawi prisons are hampered by lack of specialist forensic capacity nationally; centralized mental health surveillance system; and insufficient skilled staff to conduct evidence-based screening and care. Security operations implement the use of pharmacological and physical restraint measures at times. Faith-based organizations play an important role in providing psychological and spiritual support. Release and reintegration require family involvement. A cross departmental intersectoral partnership response spanning government ministries, key civil society organizations, the Malawi Prison Inspectorate and Malawi Human Rights Commission is warranted. Recommendations include alleviation of prison congestion, prison staff capacity building and investment in forensic mental health services with adequate geographic coverage.

The reported impact of non-communicable disease investment cases in 13 countries

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading health and development challenge worldwide. Since 2015, WHO and the United Nations Development Programme have provided support to governments to develop national NCD investment...

State or Public Service Broadcasting? Assessing the Making of a National Television Service in Botswana

This paper uses the political economy framework to examine developments surrounding the establishment and structuring of Botswana Television since its introduction as a national broadcaster in 2000. The focus is to identify the broadcasting model for Btv, and establish whether PSB or SB would be appropriate for a national television in Botswana context. Data obtained through documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews showed that Btv has always been funded and structured to operate from either the Government Ministry of Transport and Communications, or the Office of the President. Consequently, the channel’s broadcasts are predisposed toward the ideologies of the ruling elites, than those of the public. Therefore, we argue that Btv should be re-structured and allowed to operate in the interests of both the state and public. Doing so could result in collective use of state media and safeguard against unnecessary government control. Thus, for developing contexts such as Botswana, we suggest a hybrid model of both PSB and SB.

건축물 화재안전에 관한 관련법상 연구

Every time a major fire incident occurs, such as the Seocheon Specialized Market fire incident in South Chungcheong Province on January 22, 2024, the fire safety management authorities, including the central government (Ministry of Public Administration and Security, National Fire Agency) and local governments (local governments, fire stations), have revised organizations, mechanisms, and laws and promised to prevent recurrence. However, they are unable to effectively manage fire safety due to overlapping duties between fire safety management departments, dual regulations in fire-related laws, deficiencies in on-site command systems, and the public's insensitivity to disaster safety. Protecting the lives, bodies, and property of citizens from various unexpected fires aligns with the objectives of the「Constitution」,「Basic Fire Fighting Act」,「Fire-related Laws」, and「Building- related Laws」. This paper aims to present the problems and improvement directions of the laws related to fire safety management in buildings, followed by personal opinions and methods for enhancing public fire safety awareness and conducting education.

Parliament, petitions and pandemic: Conspiracism in Australia's federal e‐petitions system, 2020−2021

AbstractDuring the COVID‐19 pandemic, some groups and individuals rearticulated state power through conspiracy theories. Despite their fringe status, conspiracy theory beliefs can directly animate citizen's engagements with institutions. Drawing on Barkun's ‘conventional’ and ‘stigmatised’ knowledge types, we analyse the appearance of conspiracism in citizen e‐petitions, and their rebuttal by government ministries. Our data are e‐petitions submitted to the House of Representatives in the Parliament of Australia between 2020 and 2021. Petitions and responses are snapshots of pandemic governance in motion: unfolding through contested interpretations of a diverse range of subjects including virology, immunisation and border security. The novel characteristics of conspiracist petitions allow theories to persist, irrespective of their place in wider society: they appropriate e‐petition system affordances, compete directly with institutions and officials, reframe events to maintain narratives over time, and serve as entrepreneurial activity for individual conspiracists. E‐petitions remain an essential democratic forum between citizens and federal parliament but represent challenges for policymaking and government communication in uncertain times.