Government Bodies Research Articles

Административно-правовое противодействие чрезмерному употреблению алкоголя как метод охраны здоровья населения

The article is devoted to the issues of administrative and legal regulation of the prevention of alcoholism, treatment of alcohol abusers, as well as measures to suppress illegal behavior associated with the use and circulation of alcohol. The issue of changing the legislation regulating the work of medical sobering-up stations is raised, and issues of the competence of government bodies in connection with countering excessive alcohol consumption are also examined.

Strengthening Romani Voices in Colombia: Reflections on a Participatory Approach

Latin America’s diverse Romani populations are seldom represented in policy debates, and frequently misrepresented in popular culture and the mainstream media. In Colombia, the Proceso Organizativo del Pueblo Rrom de Colombia (Organizational Process of the Roma People of Colombia, Prorrom), among other organisations, was established to promote Romani inclusion in the country’s multicultural policies. But despite legal recognition of Romani populations in Colombia, their identity continues to be framed officially in aesthetic terms that reinforce prevailing stereotypes. This article reflects on our collaboration with Prorrom in the design and delivery of two workshops in Bogotá, where 32 appointed Romani cultural mediators are hired by the District Secretaries and other official institutions to provide input around census-taking and policy actions. Although government agencies rely on Romani mediators for decision-making, the mediators receive little if any training for their role, and often find it difficult to overcome stereotypes that stigmatise or exoticise. Our collaborative workshops addressed this problem, creating spaces for the co-creation of tools and resources to better engage with government bodies, strengthening Romani capacity to better advocate for inclusion and anti-racism. The article offers a brief history of Romani presence in Colombia, and an outline of the specific issues Romani populations face in the country. We then examine the problems identified by Romani mediators, which our collaborative workshops addressed. Finally, we explore how Romani participants viewed the collaborative process and its outcome, in their own words, and reflect on our own learning.

Malaysian Government's Unified Approach to Address National Food Security

In Malaysia, following the COVID-19 disruption of food supply, the Cabinet Committee of National Food Security Policy was set up in 2020 as a whole-of-government effort to bring together strategies and action plans for food security at the national level. This study looks at how the policies of different ministries and central agencies match up with the progressive direction set by the committee. Even though there are varying focuses on the policies between the government bodies, a collective synergy emerges from their efforts. A document analysis of these key policies shows the government's commitment to ensuring enough food for everyone.

Freedom of speech in the age of digital technologies: protection against censorship and online persecution

This article examines key aspects related to threats to freedom of speech in the online environment, particularly censorship and persecution. The author explores tools that help protect this freedom, restore access to information and expressions that have been restricted. Special attention is given to the role of international standards in the field of human rights and their importance in ensuring freedom of speech in the digital age. The author analyzes innovative approaches and technologies used to protect internet users from censorship and online persecution. The research reflects current trends in the field of information freedom and offers recommendations for further steps to support the values of democracy and human rights in the digital space. Overall, the article analyzes the impact of social media and other online platforms on freedom of speech and expression. It highlights the role of digital literacy and education in shaping users’ awareness of their rights and opportunities on the Internet. Ethical aspects of using freedom of speech in the online environment and the importance of balancing freedom of expression with protection against negative influence and discrimination are also considered. Analyzing innovative approaches and technologies for protecting freedom of speech in the online environment, the article emphasizes current trends in information freedom. The results and recommendations of the article can serve as a basis for the development of policies and programs aimed at protecting the values of democracy and human rights in the digital age. This research can also assist government bodies, civil society, and IT companies in their efforts to protect freedom of speech and raise awareness among users about their rights and opportunities on the Internet. Such an approach reinforces the role of science and research in addressing important issues in the modern world, particularly in the realm of digital freedom and human rights.

From spatial prioritization to conservation management in the Southern Ocean using the marine IBAs approach

Implementing effective conservation action requires spatial prioritization exercises to be functionally integrated with a process for developing an implementation strategy. There is great potential for animal tracking data to inform marine management in the Southern Ocean. Using information on penguin distribution, a set of marine Important Bird Areas (mIBAs) has recently been identified around Antarctica. Large-scale spatial analyses like this are key to guide resources and the attention of decision-makers towards areas of significant value. Yet, protecting marine resources requires translating prioritization exercises into legally-binding conservation measures. Here we use one of the largest gentoo colonies in Antarctica as a case study to explore pathways for the utilization of the mIBAs approach in the design and implementation of conservation measures in the Southern Ocean. For scientists and organizations willing to have a policy impact, there are two main routes to contribute to Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) decision-making: through Parties' National Delegations, or through Experts and Observers. We provide three main recommendations for incorporating the results of spatial prioritization analyses into the agenda of ATS governance bodies using the mIBAs approach: 1. Differentiate the potential contribution of mIBAs to spatial prioritization from the potential contribution to conservation planning, two different stages in the conservation process; 2. Use methods, criteria and data for delineating boundaries of potential conservation areas according to the stage of the conservation process that the outputs are expected to contribute to; 3. Understand how Antarctic mIBAs might fit into the ATS conservation measures framework and ongoing deliberations.

Upholding human rights in mega sports: A study of governance practices within the IOC and FIFA through the lens of the Ruggie Principle

The human rights and mega sport events (SMEs) discourses gain massive importance and have grown immensely in recent years. Most of the time, the sports governance bodies are responsible for administration and management of these sport mega events. Keeping in consideration the situation regarding increasing involvement, the study focuses on the field of sport along with pleasure and basic rights. Through re-evaluation the commercial factors of sports, the mega governing bodies of sport (IOC & FIFA), and researchers discuss what is referred to commonly as Ruggie Principle, and both would be applied to IOC & FIFA practices, operation, and management regarding their events. This study is essential as it emphasizes the contribution and importance of carrying out human rights impact assessments, particularly in the context of hosting rights. The survey's findings reveal that human rights and due diligence assessments are integral components of organizations such as FIFA and the IOC. This study, being an empirical investigation, allowed us to arrive at some normative conclusions that had significant implications for practices and policy issues. Additionally, it laid the groundwork for future research in the crucial area of SMEs globally.

Community pharmacists’ roles during the closure stage of the COVID-19 pandemic in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: a qualitative case study

ObjectivesTo explore the experiences and perspectives of community pharmacists regarding their roles during the closure stage (ie, March to May 2020) of the COVID-19 pandemic in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL),...

An efficient object detection by autonomous vehicle using deep learning

The automation industries have been developing since the first demonstration in the period 1980 to 2000 it is mainly used on automated driving vehicle. Now a day’s automotive companies, technology companies, government bodies, research institutions and academia, investors and venture capitalists are interested in autonomous vehicles. In this work, object detection on road is proposed, which uses deep learning (DL) algorithms. You only look once (YOLO V3, V4, V5). In this system object detection on the road data set is taken as input and the objects are mainly on-road vehicles, traffic signals, cars, trucks and buses. These inputs are given to the models to predict and detect the objects. The Performance of the proposed system is compared with performance of deep learning algorithms convolution neural network (CNN). The proposed system accuracy greater than 76.5% to 93.3%, mean average precision (Map) and frame per second (FPS) are 0.895 and 43.95%.

Image-guided peripheral nerve interventions- applications and techniques

Interventional radiology continues to be at the forefront of acute and chronic pain management. Our unique imaging expertise and ability to target difficult to reach structures allows for the continuous development of new ways to treat a variety of pain generators. In addition, the advent of thermal ablation techniques and technologies has provided a unique opportunity to offer patients more durable and predictable options to treat their pain. This is particularly important during the opioid epidemic, as multiple local and international governmental bodies push for physicians to create ways to manage pain while reducing the need for long-term opioid dependence. This article aims to review various image-guided techniques and tools for the treatment of pain related to peripheral pain generators, with a focus on the extremities, lumbosacral and pelvic region, and the chest wall. For each target and pathology, we will discuss general etiology, anatomy, procedural approach, and briefly evaluate the supporting literature in each clinical situation.

Examining challenges and strategies in implementing STEM education in Malaysian secondary schools: perspectives of teachers and students

This study examines the obstacles hindering the complete integration of STEM education in secondary schools, considering perspectives from both teachers and students, and proposing effective strategies. Employing a quantitative survey approach, the research involves 30 STEM teachers and 70 secondary school students. Findings demonstrate a consensus among participants, emphasizing issues such as inadequate teaching equipment and facilities as significant barriers to comprehensive STEM implementation. Educators favor technology-integrated teaching methods, while students show enthusiasm for incorporating these tools into their learning. Proposed effective strategies include enhancing internet accessibility and infrastructure. The study underscores the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders—teachers, parents, societal actors, and governmental bodies—to fully understand challenges and promote successful STEM integration in secondary education.

Ужесточение надзора за электронными СМИ в Германии: медиасвободы под угрозой?

The article analyzes a novelty in German law that establishes general supervision by specialized government bodies over the observance of journalistic due diligence in online media. Turning to doctrinal sources, normative material and practice, the author argues that the described regulation undermines the media freedoms enshrined in Article 5 I of the Basic Law of the Federal Republic of Germany and gives rise to a number of other constitutional and legal problems.

Flowing Prosperity: Empowering Riverbank Communities in Rajshahi City

This study investigates strategies to enhance the quality of life for riverbank communities in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh, situated along the Padma River. A comprehensive analysis of socioeconomic, environmental governance, and community aspects, the study identifies key challenges and opportunities. By paying attention to the natural resources and cultural heritage of the riverbanks, the endeavor seeks to foster socio-economic growth, environmental sustainability, and cultural preservation. Findings reveal pervasive socio-economic disparities, exacerbated by environmental degradation and governance shortcomings. The study also indicates that only 78% of inhabitants take the polio vaccine and the Body Mass Index shows 72% of people are under-weight. Despite these challenges, the study highlights community resilience, and the potential of grassroots initiatives to effect positive change. The study emphasizes the importance of integrated and participatory approaches to address the multifaceted issues facing riverbank communities. By prioritizing socio-economic equity, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment, it is possible to create inclusive and resilient communities along the riverbanks of Rajshahi City in Bangladesh. Through collaborative efforts including local stakeholders, governmental bodies, and non-profit organizations, the study creates opportunities for inclusive participation, enhances livelihoods, and promotes resilience against socio-economic challenges. The authors identify why these (River-bank people) cannot manage the sustainability of river ecosystems, health problems, and sustainable development, which advocates for a harmonious balance between social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Finally, a well-thought-out recommendation has been drafted by the authors.

Power relations among actors in laying hen business in Indonesia: A MACTOR analysis

Abstract According to their respective positions, participants at the local, regional, and global actors within the poultry farming sector play strategic roles according to their respective positions. While these roles may integrate and overlap, they can also generate conflicts of interest at both the actor and institutional levels. This study analyses the actors and power relations in laying hen farming in Blitar Regency, East Java, Indonesia. The data were collected using structured interview techniques (interview guides and Matrix of Alliances and Conflicts: Tactics, Objectives and Recommendations questionnaires), observation, documentation, and focus group discussions. The research informants were chosen deliberately based on various sources including farmers, farmer groups, cooperative, central and local government, companies, and traders. This was in addition to informants obtained using the snowball sampling technique such as middlemen, poultry shops (PSs) and other additional breeders. Data validity was determined using source triangulation and method triangulation. The results revealed that the individuals and entities engaged in layer hen farming encompass a diverse range of actors. These include farmers of various scales (small, medium, and large), institutions such as farmer groups and cooperatives, governmental bodies at both central and regional levels, industry representatives such as companies, PSs, distributors involved in producing and marketing day-old chick (DOC), feed, medicines, and vaccines, as well as market participants including local traders and traders operating across different regions. Small-scale and medium-scale farmers have the strongest relationships due to their high dependence on inputs such as DOC, feed, vaccines, and access to markets. The presence of various actors and power relations in laying hen business institutions creates both collaboration and competition in the supply of DOCs, animal feed, medicine, and even in the marketing of eggs from a food security and sustainability perspective.

DIGITALIZATION A NECESSITY FOR SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

Digitization, with its profound impact on business, manifests itself in increased efficiency, innovation and competitiveness. This transformation process requires comprehensive readiness assessments and improvement plans. Digitization is essential in driving value creation, operational efficiency and driving innovation, thereby shaping sustainable business practices. The adoption of digital technologies is essential for strengthening economic performance, mitigating the impact on the environment and promoting societal sustainability goals. This research proposes to analyse the ramifications of digitization in the field of sustainable business. Its main objective is to analyse how digital technologies have influenced and shaped businesses that adopt economic, social and environmental sustainability. To achieve this objective, a methodological review, based on academic research articles, was undertaken to elucidate how the conceptualization of digitization as a catalyst for changing sustainable business paradigms has evolved. This effort involved delineating digital technologies, discerning prevailing trends, and identifying best practices to drive sustainability goals within business operations. In addition, the review encapsulated the challenges and risks inherent in digitization in relation to sustainable business, encompassing concerns such as cyber security, regulatory compliance and ethical considerations. Finally, the research provided a forecast of the digital trajectory of sustainable business, highlighting emerging trends and potential development trajectories. The research findings underscore the imperative for sustainable businesses to adopt a strategic and meticulously planned approach. This involves investing in robust cyber security measures, upskilling the workforce in digital skills, conscientiously assessing the environmental footprint of technology and formulating robust ethical frameworks. By deftly navigating these challenges, businesses can optimize the dividends of digitization while maintaining their commitment to sustainability. While certain sustainable solutions may demonstrate effectiveness on a smaller scale, their scalability is essential to making a substantial impact on sustainability goals. Addressing the scalability issue requires concerted efforts by government bodies, businesses, communities and individuals, augmented by investments in education, technology and research. These innovative efforts hold promise for addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and socio-economic disparities, while fostering economic prosperity and societal well-being. As businesses delve deeper into the realms of digitization, the concomitant risks associated with data security and privacy escalate proportionately. Therefore, adopting strict cyber security protocols becomes of paramount importance. In conclusion, the digital frontier of sustainable business presents fertile ground for innovation and expansion. Combining digital talent with sustainability imperatives can generate business models that not only thrive economically, but also contribute significantly to social well-being and environmental conservation

Crisis volunteering during COVID-19 pandemic in India: youth responds to health and human rights crisis

Purpose This study aims to explore the experiences of individuals in India who acted as informal crisis volunteers during the peak of the deadliest wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country. Design/methodology/approach An exploratory, qualitative design was used, and data gathered via a qualitative survey in three focus areas, namely, motivation, challenges and coping mechanisms. The sample (n = 112) comprised individuals (mean age = 21.89 years) whose volunteering efforts during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic were extended as part of volunteer groups or individually, online or offline, for minimum of 10 consecutive days to four months. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis (Mayring, 2000) were used to analyze the data. Findings Most of the participants reported being inspired by social media activism to become crisis volunteers themselves. They also spoke of several human rights violations unfolding around them, namely, people denied right to health (availability and accessibility), rampant discrimination of various kinds and other systemic failures in crisis response by government bodies. Several reported undergoing extreme mental duress during the process, experiencing or witnessing harassment and dealing with corruption. A sense of collective identity and opportunities to engage in collective sense making and collective catharsis with fellow volunteers were reported as the most helpful coping mechanism. Originality/value Very little is known about the experience of informal crisis volunteers who assisted the public health system in India in various capacities during the pandemic. This paper explores those experiences, sheds light on various human rights violations that took place during the time and provides a glimpse into the potential of technology and social media in organized altruistic efforts.

MODELS AND INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS OF THE CAREER OF HEADS OF LOCAL PUBLIC AUTHORITIES AND MANAGEMENT (1965–1985)

The article deals with the issues of personnel policy in relation to the heads of local government bodies – the chairmen of the executive committees of the Soviets of the period of "developed socialism". In the 1960s and 1980s, there were models of career growth worked out in practice, which assumed consistent, starting from grassroots leadership positions, and gradual, without sudden jerks, promotion along the vertical of power and management. Based on the analysis of statistical material and the study of the biographies of specific heads of local state bodies, three main trajectories of their career growth are distinguished: "Soviet-economic", "party-Soviet", "combined". It is noted that the most common was the third option – "combined": the alternation of party, Soviet and economic nomenclature positions. Institutional factors of career growth are highlighted: membership in the CPSU, higher specialized technical or agricultural education, higher party-political education, age and work experience in lower positions (including the beginning of work as workers or collective farmers). The article was prepared as part of the task of the state scientific research program "Society and Humanitarian Security of the Belarusian State", subprogram "History", topic 12.1.3.11 "Local government bodies of the Byelorussian SSR – the Republic of Belarus: organizational, legal, material, financial and personnel foundations of functioning (1944–2020)" for 2021–2025.

Attribute Agenda Building in An Environmental Crisis: News Coverage of MV X-Press Pearl Ship Incident in Sri Lanka

This study investigated the building of the attribute agenda of an environmental crisis, taking the MV X-Press Pearl shipwreck incident as a case study. English weekend newspapers for a year since the incident were used for a content analysis to identify the information subsidies and their respective attribute agendas. An analysis framework was developed based on information subsidies and their respective attribute agendas. Results indicated that the governmental bodies unrelated to the environment were the most frequently cited sources, followed by experts and local non-governmental organizations/ industries. Conversely, the public was the least cited information source. Environmental damage was the most frequently emphasized attribute, followed by law and agreements and prevention. However, policy was the least reported attribute. Considering the correlation between information sources and attributes, the Marine Environmental Protection Authority highlighted the mitigation agenda, while non environmental related governmental bodies emphasized prevention agenda. Policymakers focused on getting compensation, while governmental bodies emphasized law and agreements and Experts prioritized on environmental damage. The evidence for attribute agenda building was found further strengthening the agenda building hypothesis and information subsidies had their own attributes highlighted in media reports. The study delves into the practical implications of agenda building, which can influence media outlets. It suggests strategic communication planning, aligning coverage with objectives, and collaborating with environmental advocacy groups. This understanding informs decision-making, promotes balanced coverage, and enhances public engagement. It is important to additionally take into account the process used to establish the agenda in future research.

Influence of Contract Management on Purchasing Consortia at County Referral Hospitals in the Coast Region, Kenya

The Purchasing consortium has been used to describe a form of cooperation in a diversified view to pool resources and manage supply risk. Depending on the anticipated advantages, the function of a purchasing group might be expanded more or less. The objective of the study was to determine the influence of contract management on purchasing consortium. The study was done in the County Referral Hospital in the Coast Region, Kenya. Theoretically, the study was anchored on competency theory, MacNeil Relational Theory. The study used the descriptive research design in undertaking this study. The study population comprised of 212 officials drawn from across the county referral hospitals in the coastal region of Kenya. The stratified random sampling technique resulted into having a total sample size of 139 units of analysis. Data was collected by use of questionnaires, analyzed, and presented scientifically in tables and graphs. The study findings revealed that Contract Management has a significant positive on the purchasing consortium. The study recommends that government and regulatory authorities implement policies and incentives to encourage healthcare organizations to adopt a portfolio approach to procurement. Given the significant financial and operational implications of purchasing consortiums, robust regulatory mechanisms are essential to safeguard against corruption, fraud, and collusion. Regulators should establish clear guidelines, standards, and monitoring mechanisms to govern consortium formation, operation, and performance evaluation. The study also recommends that government and regulatory bodies leverage technology and data analytics to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness in the healthcare sector. Furthermore, the study recommends that hospital management adopt a strategic approach to contract management that aligns with their organizational objectives and resource constraints. While the correlation analysis revealed a weak relationship between contract management and consortium participation, it is imperative for hospitals to prioritize effective contract management practices to mitigate risks and maximize value from procurement activities.

The interrelationship between sovereignty, state building, and good governance: the case of the Kurdistan region

ABSTRACT The process of state building and sovereignty has long been debated in the literature to hinge on international recognition. Despite the importance of the international factor, an equally important factor in this process is the establishment of good governance grounded in democratic institutions and a culture of democratic decision-making practices. The link that will be established is between state building and governance. This will be investigated in the context of unrecognized and de facto states. By problematizing the question of sovereignty, I argue that these states should adopt the idea of reversed sovereignty whereby priority is given to governmentality and the art of government rather than to sovereignty. The case study that I will rely on for this argument is the Kurdistan Region in Iraq (KRI) and its governmental body, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). Whilst the focus is on a single country study, the theoretical line has a wider reach that is intended to be applicable to a larger body of cases of unrecognized and de facto states, which are on the trails of seeking state formations.

‘It's about putting the learning into context’: A multimethod, multiple perspective exploration of the process of learning in introductory coach education

Coach education continues to be an integral part of coaches’ learning journey, but their usefulness has also been questioned. Given the disparity in research findings, the purpose of this study was to further our understanding of the role of the coach developer in the learning process within introductory level coach education courses. Drawing on Moon's stages of learning and using multiple methods (observation, interviews, focus groups), we explored multiple perspectives (coaches, coach developers and researcher observer) of the activities and learning situations within introductory courses (judo, basketball, paddlesports). In total, three courses were observed, each lasting two days (48 hours of observation), six coach developers participated in an interview (45–60 minutes each) and 18 coaches participated in one of five focus groups (20–300 minutes each). Through our thematic analysis, we developed three themes: structure supports the learning process; National Governing Body resources are just a starting point for learning; a deep approach to learning can be facilitated. Our findings suggest that despite criticisms of large-scale approaches to coach education, they were useful to coaches and coach developers were able to facilitate some deep learning. Furthermore, the quality of coach education programmes was largely dependent on the expertise of coach developers in their roles. Questions are raised about the conceptualisation of learner-centred approaches to coach education delivery.