Inclusive Governance Research Articles

Global innovation cooperation and governance: evidence from China

Abstract Global innovation cooperation and governance have become increasingly critical against the backdrop of rapid digital transformation and evolving international dynamics. The purpose of this special section is to examine the pivotal role of collaborative innovation frameworks amid the swift proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, emphasizing the importance of harmonized international regulations and institutional arrangements with evidance from China at the firm, industrial, and regional levels. By situating AI as both a driver of economic competitiveness and a potential source of regulatory challenges, the special section underscores the need for robust global partnerships and policy coordination. Such initiatives not only facilitate shared research and development efforts but also foster an environment conducive to ethical, transparent, and sustainable innovation. Drawing on recent advancements and ongoing policy debates, this special section provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and strategies necessary to enhance cross-border collaboration. Ultimately, the findings highlight the imperative of building an inclusive, adaptable, and future-oriented governance system, ensuring that innovation and technological progress contribute to equitable and enduring global development.

Transformasi Manajemen Publik Berkelanjutan di Kabupaten Purbalingga

Sustainable public management transformation is a crucial issue in the era of globalization which is characterized by the complexity of the challenges faced by governments around the world. This study aims to explore best practices, obstacles, and driving factors in the transformation of public management in Purbalingga Regency, Indonesia. With a descriptive-exploratory qualitative approach, data was obtained through in-depth interviews, observations, and analysis of official documents. The need to manage resources responsibly, improve the efficiency of public services, and meet public demands for transparency and accountability is increasingly urgent. Sustainable public management transformation is not only an option, but also a necessity to ensure the welfare of the community in the future. This research aims to identify approaches and strategies that can be applied in supporting the transformation and explore the driving factors and inhibitions in its implementation. This study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive-exploratory design. The results of the study show that the use of information technology such as e-government plays an important role in improving the efficiency and transparency of public services. Cross-sector collaboration between governments, civil society, and the private sector has proven to be a key strategy in achieving successful transformation. Community involvement in the planning and implementation of public policies increases the relevance of policies to local needs. However, challenges such as resistance to change and limited resources still hinder this transformation process. Therefore, a holistic and sustainability-oriented strategy is needed to overcome these obstacles. The transformation of sustainable public management in Purbalingga Regency is a strategic step in realizing inclusive, adaptive, and responsive governance to global dynamics and local needs.

Understanding the Rise and Fall of Rural Specialty Agriculture from Social–Ecological Land System Perspective: A Longitudinal Case Study in China

Specialty agriculture, promoted in China to enhance rural revitalization and farmers’ wellbeing, depends heavily on local social–ecological conditions and land transformations. However, existing studies often emphasize socio-institutional successes while oversimplifying ecological complexity and neglecting failures. This study examines the rise and fall of rural specialty agriculture through a social–ecological land system perspective, using the cherry tomato industry in C Town, China, as a case study. Drawing on qualitative data from field investigations and interviews, we adapt an extended Social–Ecological Systems Framework (SESF) to analyze interactions among governance subsystems, land resources, and external shocks, and their role in social–ecological transitions. Our findings show that the shift from farmer-led self-organization to government-driven and enterprise-dominated governance significantly undermined system resilience and adaptability. Although external interventions initially spurred industrialization and scaling, they marginalized farmers, leading to the system’s collapse under stressors like market fluctuations and environmental challenges. Our findings highlight the importance of inclusive governance for sustaining land-based agricultural systems, and point to the need of prioritizing farmer autonomy, sustainable land use planning, and adaptive governance to ensure the resilience and long-term sustainability of specialty agriculture systems.

Police Education and SDG 16: An Assessment of AESP in the Context of Ceará’s Public Security Policies

Objective: This study analyzes the role of the State Public Security Academy (AESP) in implementing a multidisciplinary and humanistic police education model, focusing on SDG 16. Theoretical Framework: Drawing on an institutional perspective, the research examines AESP as a foundational agency within public security policies in Ceará. It discusses the shift from a “police training” paradigm to “police education,” articulating the concept of citizen security as an alternative to traditionally militaristic models. Method: This qualitative research comprises document analysis (normative frameworks, PDIs, administrative and financial reports), literature review, and participant observation carried out by one of the authors, a military police officer working at AESP. These steps enabled an investigation of the structural, cultural, and budgetary changes influencing police education. Results and Discussion: The study identified organizational adaptations, AESP’s registration as a research institution, and targeted extension initiatives. Yet, challenges remain, such as the disconnection between AESP and autonomous research entities like SUPESP, resistance to interdisciplinarity between civil and military forces, and a legislative proposal for restructuring that may fragment academic integration and hinder alignment with SDG 16. Research Implications: Strengthening the interdependence of teaching, research, and extension is recommended, overcoming organizational segmentation and prioritizing democratic values and citizenship. The research shows how institutional and cultural policies affect the implementation of police education. Originality/Value: By proposing an integrated police education approach aligned with SDG 16, the study contributes to debates on the strategic role of security academies in higher education for public security, fostering justice, social inclusion, and sustainable governance.

REIMAGINING DEMOCRACY AND ECONOMY: THE VISION OF DR. B.R. AMBEDKAR

Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, a visionary leader and social reformer, was a staunch advocate of democracy and economic equality. This research paper examines the democratic framework of Dr Ambedkar, with a particular focus on its economic structure and underlying principles. It explores how the political ideology of Ambedkar was shaped by his commitment to social justice, equality, and economic freedom. The study delves into his belief that political democracy is incomplete without economic democracy and highlights his emphasis on equal opportunities, fair resource distribution, and the eradication of caste-based discrimination. The paper also analyses Ambedkar’s critique of hereditary systems, the role of functional opposition in parliamentary democracy, and the significance of free and fair elections in ensuring transparency and accountability. By contextualising the vision of Ambedkar within the broader framework of democratic governance, this research underscores the relevance of his vision in addressing contemporary issues of inequality, social exclusion, and economic injustice. KEYWORDS: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar; Democratic Framework; Economic Structure; Parliamentary Democracy; Social Justice; Caste and Discrimination; Inclusive Governance.

The Role of Ethnicity in Post-Conflict Peace Building: A Case Study of Rwanda, Bosnia and Sri Lanka

This paper examines the role of ethnicity in post-conflict peacebuilding, focusing on Rwanda as a primary case study and drawing comparisons with Bosnia and Sri Lanka. It explores how ethnic divisions, often rooted in colonial legacies, have shaped conflict dynamics and influenced recovery processes. The study delves into Rwanda's post-genocide strategies, including institutional reforms, justice mechanisms, economic reconstruction, and reconciliation programs, highlighting both successes and challenges. The research contrasts Rwanda's approach to the institutionalized ethnic divisions in Bosnia and the majoritarian policies in Sri Lanka, offering insights into the complexities of balancing ethnic identities in peacebuilding. Key lessons emphasize the importance of inclusive governance, equitable resource distribution, grassroots reconciliation, and the integration of justice and economic development in fostering long-term peace. The findings contribute to understanding how ethnic dynamics can either hinder or promote stability in divided societies.

Assessing User Committees’ Effectiveness in Infrastructure Projects: A Case of Palungtar Municipality, Nepal Using Exploratory Factor

The purpose of this study is to assess the efficiency of User Committees (UCs) in the management of infrastructure projects in Palungtar Municipality, Nepal, which operates under a decentralized federal governance system. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and principal component analysis (PCA) are used in conjunction with one another to investigate the formulation, implementation, and performance outcomes of UCs. The perspectives of stakeholders were measured on a Likert scale with five points, and sixteen parameters were evaluated. These parameters were classified into three important factors: formation and composition, project planning and implementation, and project outcomes and performance. Primary data were obtained from surveys and secondary data were obtained from published sources. A substantial amount of information regarding the administrative procedures, transparency, and efficiency of project execution was uncovered using EFA. Statistical studies, such as the Chi-Square and Fisher’s Exact Test, brought to light gender-based disparities in stakeholder views that were both significant and non-significant. Which also identified regions of uniformity and divergence.Despite the fact that their functionality and project outcomes have the potential to be improved, the findings reveal that UCs are confronted with obstacles such as political interference, inefficient operations, and compliance issues. Specifically, focused interventions to address gender inequities, policy refinement for inclusive governance, and attempts to build capacity to improve UC operations are some of the recommendations that have been made. The findings of this study contribute to improved governance, the creation of environmentally responsible infrastructure, and increased project success at the local level.

Voicing Out Parental Experiences of Schooling Their Children with Learning Disabilities: A Qualitative Study of Inclusive Government Schools of India

Voicing Out Parental Experiences of Schooling Their Children with Learning Disabilities: A Qualitative Study of Inclusive Government Schools of India

Legal Uncertainty and Barriers to Women's Representation in Village Governance

Background: Women's representation in Indonesia's Village Consultative Bodies (BPD) is essential for gender equality and inclusive governance. However, unclear regulations, socio-cultural barriers, and weak enforcement hinder progress. Gap: Legal ambiguities and inconsistent practices limit effective participation and gender-responsive decision-making. Aim: This study explores the legal uncertainties affecting women's representation in BPDs and their broader impacts. Results: Findings highlight unclear legislation, gaps between national and regional regulations, and insufficient enforcement, compounded by cultural biases, reducing women’s motivation and participation. Novelty: The study provides a unique analysis of legal and socio-cultural challenges, offering actionable reform strategies. Implications: Clearer regulations and empowerment programs can improve representation, fostering equitable governance and sustainable development. Highlights: Legal ambiguities in regulations hinder women’s effective participation in BPDs. Socio-cultural biases significantly reduce opportunities for gender-responsive governance. Clearer policies and empowerment programs are vital for equitable local development. Keywords: Women's Representation, Village Consultative Bodies, Gender Equality, Legal Uncertainty, Governance

Crisis Management in Tourism: Applied Psychological Strategies for Resilience and Recovery

This study investigates crisis management in the tourism industry, focusing on psychological perspectives, stakeholder collaboration, and governance mechanisms. Utilizing a qualitative literature review approach, the research aims to explore the strategies, challenges, and implications of crisis management practices within tourism. The methodology involves comprehensive literature search, data collection, and analysis of key themes and patterns. Results reveal the significant impact of psychological factors such as emotions, perceptions, and coping mechanisms on tourists' responses to crises. Moreover, stakeholder collaboration and inclusive governance are identified as crucial for developing proactive crisis management plans and fostering resilience within tourism destinations. Findings highlight the importance of cultural competence, social support networks, and adaptive governance structures in enhancing crisis preparedness and recovery. Overall, the study contributes to theory-building and knowledge advancement in crisis management in tourism, emphasizing the need for integrating psychological perspectives and stakeholder collaboration into crisis management frameworks.

Evaluation of Environmental Management at Pulang Pisau Regional General Hospital Based on Environmental Impact Assessment Studies and Regional Development

This study aims to evaluate environmental management at Pulang Pisau Regional General Hospital (RSUD) within the framework of participatory development planning. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method, collecting data through interviews, observations, and documentation. Data analysis follows the Miles and Huberman model, with validation through methodological and source triangulation. The findings indicate that environmental planning and management at RSUD Pulang Pisau remain technocratic, with limited public involvement. The lack of public dialogue spaces and multi-stakeholder consultations results in low community participation in sustainable development. Implementing medical and liquid waste management policies follows national regulations but still faces challenges in resource efficiency and environmental impact monitoring. This study recommends strengthening inclusive environmental governance by establishing multi-stakeholder forums and public consultation mechanisms and enhancing community education and empowerment in environmental monitoring. Policy evaluation based on George C. Edward III's implementation theory highlights the importance of clear communication, resource availability, stakeholder commitment, and an effective bureaucratic structure in successfully implementing environmental policies. This research emphasizes that active public participation in hospital environmental management is not merely a technical aspect but also an integral part of an inclusive and sustainable development process.

Learning Health Systems Research

Background: Learning health systems research (LHSR) builds on concepts of systems-based participatory research to form a new paradigm for partnered research. Objective: Defines LHSR and its ongoing challenges and future directions. Research Design: Qualitative description of relevant dimensions of LHSR. Results: In LHSR, researchers and health system stakeholders co-create research with dual aims of producing internal quality improvement and generalizable, disseminable knowledge. This approach aligns research priorities with community and health system needs, resulting in interventions that are both feasible and acceptable in real-world settings and effective. LHSR methods and outcomes reflect elements of implementation science, particularly participatory implementation science and the use of mixed methods, but the field is distinct in its emphasis on co-creation with health system leaders and the use of theory to inform rather than drive the work. Practitioners of LHSR face challenges related to the complex and multi-stakeholder nature of the field, including the time-intensive nature of building partnerships, conflicting project time horizons, imprecision inherent in real-world data, and barriers to publication of the smaller studies that typically result from LHSR. Conclusions: Continued advancement of the field requires confronting these challenges with a variety of interventions, including explicit institutional support and incentives for this type of work, training and career development opportunities, a diversity of funding sources, investment in data resources and expertise, and inclusive research governance structures.

Public Policies for the Digitalization of Public Services in the European Union: From Foundations to Contemporary Challenges

This article examines the digitalization of public services within the European Union (EU), focusing on its institutional, technological, and socio-political aspects. The EU has prioritized e-government to enhance administrative efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement. Benchmarking tools like the E-Government Development Index (EGDI) and the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) are highlighted as key measures for assessing progress across member states. Case studies from countries such as Estonia, Greece, Italy, and Romania reveal significant variations in digital readiness, infrastructure, and governance. The paper emphasizes the importance of collaborative governance, transparency, and open government in building public trust and advancing digital transformation. It also addresses challenges including corruption, gaps in digital literacy, and ethical concerns in the use of automated decision-making. The COVID-19 pandemic's role in accelerating digital initiatives is discussed, along with policy recommendations aimed at improving interoperability, fostering digital skills, and aligning national recovery plans to achieve inclusive and efficient digital governance.

Evaluating governance structures in the implementation of early childhood policies: A pathway to sustainable development

The evaluation of general governance structures plays a crucial role in the implementation of early childhood policies, serving as a fundamental pillar for sustainable development. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between governance structures and the effectiveness of policies directed at child welfare in less sustainable rural communities in the Peruvian high-lands. The research was conducted with a sample of 260 officials and key stakeholders involved in the management and execution of these policies in the central highlands region of Peru. The study design was quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational in scope. Da-ta were collected using structured questionnaires that measured the perceptions of stakeholders regarding governance and its impact on early childhood policy outcomes. The data were ana-lyzed using the Spearman Rho test, yielding a correlation coefficient of r=0.528 and a significance level of p=0.003. These results allowed for the rejection of the null hypothesis and confirmed that governance structures have a significant impact on the effectiveness of early childhood policies. The instruments used to measure the variables demonstrated high reliability, with Cronbach's alpha coefficients of 0.91 for governance and 0.80 for policy implementation effectiveness. The findings underscore that adopting inclusive and well-articulated governance structures can sub-stantially improve early childhood policy outcomes, promoting comprehensive development in children and strengthening the foundations for sustainable development, especially in rural communities with resource limitations.

Collaborative Governance on Advancing Food Self-Sufficiency : Enabling and Constraining Factors in South Sumatra

The aims of this research are to identify and analyze the supporting and inhibiting factors of Collaborative Governance in the Implementation of the South Sumatra Independent Food Movement in South Sumatra Province. The research method uses qualitative research with data collection techniques using in-depth interviews, observation and documentation to analyze Collaborative Governance in the Implementation of the South Sumatra Independent Food Movement in South Sumatra Province. The research reveals significant challenges, such as resource limitations, ambiguities in role assignments, and cultural differences, which can hinder effective collaboration. The GSMP’s collaborative process, encompassing stages of negotiation, commitment, implementation, and assessment, provides critical insights into both the enabling factors, such as strong stakeholder commitment and regular evaluations, and the constraining factors, such as varying motivations and power dynamics, that shape the program’s success. The findings underscore the importance of adaptable, transparent, and inclusive governance frameworks that align diverse interests, enhance community resilience, and support long-term poverty alleviation.

From Margins to Mainstream (M2M): Can Artificial Intelligence (AI) Reshape Governance for Chittagong Hill Tracts Indigenous Communities?

Indigenous communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh contend with multifaceted governance challenges, including representation, resource allocation, and access to services. This paper investigates the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to address these issues and foster inclusive governance practices in the region. Grounded in the following research questions: 1) How are Indigenous communities currently governed in the CHT, and what are the primary challenges they face? 2) What are the opportunities and challenges of leveraging AI to enhance governance in the CHT? 3) How do Indigenous communities perceive the role of AI in governance, and what are their expectations and concerns? the study adopts a self-directed research approach, employing interviews, surveys, and online research to gather insights. Through a synthesis of existing literature and empirical findings, the paper identifies key considerations for deploying AI in governance contexts, including ethical implications, community engagement strategies, and capacity-building initiatives. The research underscores the importance of centering Indigenous perspectives and promoting participatory approaches in the design and implementation of AI-driven governance solutions. By shedding light on the intersection of AI and Indigenous governance, this study contributes to the discourse on technology and social justice, offering practical insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners seeking to advance inclusive development agendas in marginalized regions.

Stepping stones to transformative participatory governance capabilities in a rural landscape restoration project

ABSTRACT Local participation in managing natural resources is key to ensuring that community members living within and relying upon ecosystems can influence planning and decision-making. Transformative and inclusive governance towards sustainable outcomes requires the presence of local actors with appropriate capabilities. This paper identifies means (or stepping stones) to cultivate transformative participatory governance capabilities. We analyse the outcomes of a learning system involving researchers and participants (collectively co-learners) employed within a transdisciplinary landscape restoration project – the Tsitsa Project, in the rural Tsitsa River Catchment in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Developing governance capabilities enhanced the sustainability of the project’s localised impact. We conducted a qualitative analysis of the learning outcomes and process documentation, using a value creation framework. We found three stepping stones particularly effective at enabling transformative value creation: i) consistently adapting to novel and evolving constraints, ii) investing in effective, fair facilitation from the beginning, and iii) promoting participatory confidence through exposure to diverse governance spaces. The active, engaged development of participatory capabilities is a foundational step in the process of developing participatory governance practice. The insights can inform the development of transformative participation approaches in natural resource governance, particularly for rural communities.

The Political Economy of Natural Resources: Exploitation and Sustainability

This article explores the political economy dynamics of natural resources in relation to their exploitation and sustainability. Natural resources, such as oil, gas, minerals, and forests, play a critical role in economic development. However, their management is often hindered by power imbalances, neoliberal policies, and pressures from globalization. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the study analyzes how policies, economic structures, and political dynamics shape the exploitation of natural resources and their effects on social, economic, and environmental sustainability. The article emphasizes the need for sustainable development as a solution, focusing on integrating environmental sustainability, social inclusiveness, and equitable economic growth. By addressing these interconnected factors, the article argues that it is possible to achieve a balance between economic growth and the preservation of natural resources. Furthermore, it offers strategic recommendations for overcoming the challenges of exploitation and inequality in resource management. These recommendations include creating policies that prioritize fairness, transparency, and long-term sustainability. The article stresses the importance of inclusive and future-oriented governance, which ensures that natural resource wealth benefits all sectors of society, while minimizing environmental degradation. Such governance approaches can lead to more equitable outcomes, fostering a sustainable relationship between human development and the natural environment.

Optimization of Human Resources (HR) to Support Blue Economy in Riau Island Province

Riau Island Province (Kepri) has great potential to support blue economy policies with its territory dominated by oceans (96%) and strategic position on the ASEAN border. Blue economy is an important approach to integrating maritime sectors such as fisheries, marine tourism, renewable energy, and marine technology sustainably. This article aims to analyze the challenges and opportunities in optimizing local human resources (HR) to support the implementation of blue economy policies in Kepri, in order to realize the vision of "Kepri Permata Biru 2045." This study uses a descriptive qualitative method with a phenomenological approach to understand the interaction between government, society, academics, the private sector, and media (Pentahelix Collaboration). Primary and secondary data were obtained through interviews, literature studies, and official documents such as RPJPD and RPJMD. This approach helps explore the dynamics of stakeholders in inclusive and sustainable blue economy governance. The results of the study show that although Kepri has great potential in maritime resources, the implementation of blue economy policies is faced with challenges such as limited inter-regional connectivity, low quality of human resources, and lack of maritime infrastructure. In addition, synergy between actors in collaborative governance is still weak. However, great opportunities can be utilized through investment in marine technology, human resource training, and strengthening the role of local communities.

Urban Vulnerability Assessments to Climate Change for Members of the European Healthy Cities Network in Turkey: A Case Study

It is a scientific fact that climate change has important negative effects on and ecological sustainability. Especially its increasing effects on human and urban health make settlements more vulnerable. Therefore, government-level actions are important, but local governments have more important roles in climate change mitigation and adaptation. However, the lack of information on combating climate change is the biggest problem for local governments. To overcome this lack of information, action, and inclusive governance systems based on the measurement and monitoring are required. There are many tools and methods for qualitative and quantitative vulnerability assessment for cities. Indicator-Based Vulnerability Assessments are recommended in the relevant literature to assess vulnerability to urban climate impacts. This study, based on the method IBVAs, Turkey Healthy Cities Association member aims to determine the level of vulnerability of cities to climate change. When these 40 settlements/cities were analyzed by vulnerability categories, it was determined that they were distributed as High Vulnerability 0, Medium Vulnerability 5, Low Vulnerability 32, and Durability 3, respectively. It is seen that the biggest deficiencies related to the sub-parameters in the cities are in the Organizational Structures of the Cities, followed by the General Characteristics of the Cities and the Built-Environment respectively.