Local Communities Research Articles

Geographical Indications in Vietnam: Protecting Cultural Heritage and Promoting Economic Growth

For millennia, Vietnam's identity has been deeply rooted in its agricultural prowess, which it considers the backbone of its economic framework. The country's unique geographical positioning, coupled with its distinct weather patterns, has blessed it with a cornucopia of agricultural produce. These products are not only varied in kind but also renowned for their rich flavors and exquisite taste. Recognizing the importance of these products, the Vietnamese government has turned to Geographical Indications (GIs), a facet of Intellectual Property (IP) law, as a strategic tool to preserve the nation's cultural heritage and stimulate economic development. GIs are a form of IP that identifies a product as originating from a specific region, where its qualities are due to that region's unique geographical features. This article delves into the case of Phu Quoc fish sauce, a quintessential example of how IP law, through the use of GIs, has safeguarded and promoted Vietnamese agricultural products. Phu Quoc fish sauce, with its distinctive taste and production process deeply tied to the island's environment, has gained international recognition and protection. The GI status not only protects the product from imitation but also adds value, ensuring that the authentic product's reputation and the region's cultural identity are preserved. This legal framework has become a catalyst for economic growth, as it encourages sustainable farming practices and supports local communities, while also ensuring that the unique flavors of Vietnam's agriculture reach global markets with authenticity and pride.

Sanan rai wisdom in Atauro's tourism transformation

AbstractThis paper examines the history and activities of the Timorese NGO Empreza Di'ak, focusing on its role in revitalising traditional pottery (sanan rai in Tetum) on Atauro Island. Traditionally a form of women's knowledge, pottery has been reimagined in the post‐independence era as cultural heritage at risk of extinction, now transformed into commodities primarily targeting the tourist market. The paper explores the interplay of social, economic, and generational factors driving the revival of sanan rai production within the broader context of positioning Atauro as an international tourism destination. It delves into the complexities, challenges, and subjectivities that arise, alongside the unexpected situations and evolving expectations of local communities as they navigate this process of (re)engaging with and revaluing a nearly lost tradition.

Ecosystem services assessment of Beledanga oxbow lake in the Gangetic plains: pathways to sustainable conservation

Oxbow lakes, formed from abandoned river meanders, are unique wetlands that play a crucial role in supporting aquatic biodiversity and sustaining local communities through their ecosystem services. This study focuses on the Beledanga oxbow lake, highlighting its ecosystem services and the critical role of hydrological connectivity with the adjacent river for maintaining ecological functionality and sustainability. Using the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment framework, the study assessed provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting services through field surveys, stakeholder consultations, and secondary data analysis. Results show that the lake provides essential provisioning services, such as fisheries and irrigation, which support local food security and income generation. It also plays a role in regulating services like water management and carbon sequestration, while its biodiversity underpins vital ecological functions, including nutrient cycling and habitat provision. However, challenges such as seasonal water scarcity and macrophyte infestation threaten the lake's productivity and connectivity with the river. The study emphasizes the need for collaborative efforts involving local stakeholders to devise water management strategies and remove macrophytes, utilizing government initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) for funding. Additionally, the establishment of robust monitoring systems for sustainable fisheries management and incentive programs for conservation efforts are recommended. The research highlights the importance of hydrological connectivity in sustaining the lake's ecosystem services and enhancing biodiversity. By integrating local knowledge and stakeholder engagement, this study provides valuable insights into the sustainable management of oxbow lakes and highlights the broader significance of river-oxbow lake connectivity in wetland conservation efforts. The findings also have implications for broader wetland conservation policies in similar ecosystems.

From Residents to Hosts: Empowerment and Training of the Urban Population of Manta in Tourism

Objective: This study analyzed the relationship between training and tourism empowerment in the urban parishes of Manta. Theoretical Framework: The research is supported by theories of development, sociology, and psychology, and is related to concepts such as local development, development economics, and citizen participation. Essentially, the study seeks to understand how tourism can be a positive force for social change in Ecuador's coastal communities, as long as training, empowerment, and active participation of community members are promoted. Methodology: For the development of this study and the fulfillment of the specific objectives proposed, a quantitative, field, and correlational research was adopted. Likewise, a non-experimental research design was adopted. Results and Discussion: The results of the quantitative research revealed a low level of English language skills and knowledge of natural and cultural heritage, as well as low participation in tourism training among the urban population of Manta. Weak relationships were also found between empowerment and training, except for the social and psychological dimensions. Implications of the Research: The implications of this research are broad and far-reaching. By demonstrating the relationship between tourism, community empowerment, and sustainable development, this study can serve as a basis for the design of public policies and development programs that promote the active participation of local communities in tourism management. Originality/Value: The originality of this research lies in its multidisciplinary and contextualized approach, which combines elements of economics, sociology, and anthropology to analyze the complex relationship between tourism, community development, and empowerment. Its value lies in its ability to offer a conceptual and methodological framework for future research, as well as its potential to inform public policies and management practices that promote more sustainable and equitable tourism.

Exploring the Mekong River and the Development of Eco-Cultural Tourism in Northeastern Thailand

Aims: This article aims to explore and promote tourism in the Northeastern region of Thailand, specifically focusing on the vibrant culture surrounding the Mekong River. The goal is to stimulate the local economy and enhance the quality of life for the communities in this area. Additionally, the article seeks to establish a sustainable tourism model that preserves the uniqueness of local culture for future generations. Method: This article employs a qualitative approach using a descriptive research design. It incorporates in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis to collect information about the experiences and knowledge of communities living along the Mekong River. A purposive sampling technique was used to select relevant locations and participants aligning with the research objectives. Results: The research findings indicate that the Mekong River significantly impacts the social, cultural, and economic aspects of local communities in Northeastern Thailand. The river offers promising opportunities for tourism development. Key tourist attractions—such as traditional festivals, the sale of local products, and the communities along the river—have been identified as avenues to enhance the area's economy and culture while aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs). Conclusion: The article concludes that the growth of ecotourism and cultural tourism in the Mekong River region can generate income and foster pride in local culture. Preserving the community's unique characteristics and cultural heritage is vital. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of planning for sustainable tourism to ensure that both communities and the environment fully benefit in the future. Research Implications: The findings highlight the significance of developing sustainable tourism in the Mekong River region. They stress the need for strategies that promote equitable economic growth and active community participation. Additionally, the paper advocates for effective water resource management and cross-border collaboration to support tourism development that generates income while preserving the area's cultural and environmental diversity. Originality/Value: This research is unique and valuable because it examines the relationship between local culture and ecotourism development in the Mekong River region. It provides insights into how the river influences community identity and livelihoods. Additionally, it offers strategies for sustainable tourism development that aim to generate economic benefits while preserving local cultural heritage.

Faktor Pendukung dan Penghambat Proses Pemberdayaan Perempuan melalui Budidaya Jahe dan Lengkuas (Studi Kasus CSR PT. Combiphar)

<p><em>The women’s empowerment program through ginger and galangal cultivation was initiated by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of Combiphar Inc. This program aims to improve the welfare and capacity of women farmers. Initially, this program was welcomed enthusiastically by members of the target women’s farmer groups (KWT), but there was a decline in KWT member participation in the second planting period. This research aims to determine the supporting and inhibiting factors in the process of empowering KWT Karya Makmur II in ginger and galangal cultivation carried out by CSR of Combiphar Inc. This research uses a descriptive qualitative analysis method with a case study approach. In this research, the informants involved included members of KWT Karya Makmur II, the Persada Yogyakarta Foundation as Combiphar’s partner, the Agriculture and Food Service, Field Agricultural Extension Officers (PPL), as well as the local community. Data collection techniques were carried out using in-depth interviews, observation and documentation as well as using Miles and Huberman’s interactive analysis. The research results show that leadership, cooperation, policy and technology are supporting factors in the empowerment process of KWT Karya Makmur II in ginger and galangal cultivation. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors include dependency, commitment, organizational management, and marketing. Research findings reveal that the success of empowerment programs depends not only on technical factors but also on social and institutional factors. This provides important recommendations for further CSR program development, namely the need for a holistic approach that takes into account socio-economic aspects and institutional capacity in community empowerment efforts.</em></p>

The EU Public Diplomacy in Latin America: State of Affairs, Challenges and Prospects

The article addresses the public diplomacy of the EU in Latin America in the context of the geopolitical confrontation between Brussels and Moscow, as well as the growing influence of China in the region. The EU's efforts to reduce Russia’s political influence in Latin America through public diplomacy tools increases the need for a comprehensive study of interaction of EU diplomats with the Latin American public. Using social constructivism and normative power theory as a methodological basis, the authors identify the features of the EU public diplomacy in the region and the challenges faced by European officials in their practice. The specifics of public diplomacy of the EU in Latin America are outlined: emphasis on advocacy, cultural diplomacy and academic exchanges as key instruments of interaction with the local community; functioning in conditions of a positive attitude of the majority of the population of the region to the EU; focus on the monologue communication in digital diplomacy. The key challenges for Brussel’s public diplomacy in Latin American include a shortage of financial and human resources, effective media policy of Russia and China differentiation of Latin American countries in the eyes of the EU in terms of democratic development that reduces the ability of Brussels to promote its value-normative agenda. The authors forecast the development of the EU public diplomacy in the region, assuming that it is unlikely to improve in the coming years.

TERRITORIAL BRANDING TOOLS IN THE PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION SYSTEM: THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL ASPECTS

This study addresses the significant role of territorial branding as a strategic tool in public administration, particularly in the context of increasing globalization and regional competition. As regions strive to distinguish themselves on the global stage, the establishment of unique territorial brands emerges as a means to enhance economic growth, social development, and the overall quality of life for local populations. The paper discusses the necessity of territorial branding in fostering a positive regional image, bolstering regional identity, and attracting investments while promoting tourism and local businesses. Despite the growing interest in this field, there remains a gap in the theoretical understanding of territorial branding and practical guidelines for its implementation within public governance frameworks. This research aims to explore the essence, functions, and mechanisms of territorial branding, providing insights into its impact on shaping a region's image and identity. It emphasizes the importance of developing comprehensive branding strategies that consider the socio-cultural and economic nuances of each area. The analysis includes a review of contemporary scholarly works, highlighting contributions from leading researchers in Ukraine. The findings suggest that successful territorial branding relies on local community engagement, effective communication, and the alignment of branding initiatives with the region's unique cultural and economic resources. The study ultimately advocates for the integration of innovative branding practices into public administration to address contemporary challenges and leverage opportunities for sustainable regional development. Through a methodical examination of existing literature and theoretical models, this paper identifies key factors influencing effective territorial branding, such as cultural heritage, natural resources, economic opportunities, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. By synthesizing these aspects, the research offers practical recommendations for policymakers and public administrators to enhance the effectiveness of territorial branding efforts in Ukraine and beyond. This study serves as a foundational resource for further exploration of territorial branding as an essential component of regional development strategies.

Potential Utilization of Taro Yam as Food in Ngada District

Taro (Colocasia esculenta L.) is a tuberous plant called bonggol that grows underground. The high carbohydrate content of taro makes it a top choice as a staple food when looking for alternatives to rice. Taro has great potential to be processed into various food products to help prevent various nutritional problems and generate additional income for local communities. Ngada Regency is one of the districts that has its own natural strengths and is also rich in natural resources such as local food, one of which is taro yam. Quantitative research was used in this study. Data were collected in the form of secondary data or data obtained from books, journals, newspapers, statistical data and other sources. The technique used for this research study is literature study. Ngada Regency has considerable potential for taro yams. Almost all of Ngada Regency cultivates taro yams. However, taro yam processing in Ngada Regency is still quite simple, such as steaming, frying, making compote and animal feed. The people of Ngada Regency certainly have great potential in processing taro yams into industrial raw materials and materials for food needs, such as turning taro yams into taro rice and taro flour. This needs special attention from the local government in empowering the natural resources owned, to open up business potential and encourage job creation for the community, as well as MSME businesses. Ngada Regency is the third largest district on Flores Island in terms of taro yam cultivation, with 2,916 taro yams produced.

Academies in England and Independent Schools in Finland: A Distributed Leadership Perspective

Many education systems adopt neoliberal privatisation and marketisation approaches to diversify education provision and improve quality. England is a leading example, transforming local authority-maintained schools into academies. In contrast, Finland resists neoliberalism and maintains a small number of independent schools. This paper examines how resources and leadership are distributed in academies and independent schools to explain the different educational paths taken by England and Finland. This study uses a scoping review approach to explore and contrast academies and independent schools. The comparison covers aspects such as history, education administration, local governance, accountability, curriculum and performance, teacher professional development and home–school–community relationships. The findings reveal that academies in England often concentrate leadership roles and resources among a privileged few, including large Multi-Academy Trusts, technocratic trustees and curriculum experts. This concentration tends to marginalise local communities and parents, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. In Finland, independent schools serve a supplementary role within the education system, catering to specific cultural, linguistic and religious groups while adhering to the national core curriculum and regulations. While existing studies critique the academisation movement in England and commend the high-performing public school system in Finland, a direct comparison between academies in England and independent schools in Finland has been lacking. This systematic review offers original insights into these two types of schools and clarifies why neoliberal approaches often exacerbate rather than mitigate disparities in education access and equity.

Social sustainability in local communities in Norway: which factors are associated with people's satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future?

To investigate the associations between social sustainability factors and people's satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future. This study used data from the Norwegian County Public Health Survey conducted in Viken County, Norway, in 2021 (N = 97,323). The survey included questions concerning physical aspects (e.g. accessibility of services and facilities) and non-physical aspects (civic participation, social support, trust, safety, place attachment and well-being) of social sustainability in local communities. A new outcome variable was constructed to capture people's satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future. Hierarchical linear regression was applied to examine the relationships between physical and non-physical factors of social sustainability and this outcome. All included factors were significantly associated with people's satisfaction with their local community as a place to live now and in the future, but the magnitude and direction of these associations varied. Place attachment (β = 0.53), safety (β = 0.15) and well-being (β = 0.11) were the strongest indicators of people's satisfaction with their local community. Non-physical factors accounted for 41% of the variance in people's satisfaction, while physical factors accounted for 14%. Both physical and non-physical factors are essential for developing socially sustainable communities. This knowledge could be valuable for academics and policymakers, helping them better understand the complex relationships between various aspects of social sustainability and informing the development of socially sustainable local communities.

Deliberating in the Reef world: how can place-based deliberation help to envision sustainable regional futures for the Great Barrier Reef?

ABSTRACT Achieving a sustainable future for lived landscapes like the Great Barrier Reef requires understanding how local communities collectively envision their futures and prioritise socio-economic and environmental goals. Public deliberation is a method for creating conditions whereby citizens reflect on how their collective values and beliefs – including social, economic and environmental goals – inform decisions regarding the best course of action. In this article, we explore the potential of place-based, small-group deliberation as a method for envisioning and prioritising the social, economic and environmental goals of communities within the Great Barrier Reef region. Drawing on observations from a pilot process conducted with local residents in Townsville, the largest population centre in the Reef region, we examine and reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of implementing deliberative methods in the real-world context of the Reef. We also discuss how place-based forms of deliberation could play a role in supporting communities to envision and navigate sustainable regional futures within the context of climate change and other pressures on the Reef, and identify areas for future research and practice.

Enhancing family dynamics with a focus on fatherhood: An empirical and practical theological study in South Africa using the Fatherhood Training Manual

Over time, fatherhood has evolved, leading to significant challenges, repercussions, and difficulties for families in their local communities. The issue of fatherhood is a major challenge facing families today, as many fathers encounter serious obstacles, and often are not present during this period of reconceptualization. The fatherhood issue has disastrous ramifications, as struggles faced by men adversely affect families, society, and eventually the entire world. Family dynamics, encompassing the patterns of interactions between relatives, their roles and relationships, and the factors influencing these interactions, are indispensable. Family members are primary sources of relationship security, relying on one another for emotional, physical, and financial support. However, families are increasingly fading from our society, along with God's intended purpose for them. The fatherhood conundrum in many South African communities suggests that the fundamental problem lies in fathers failing to fulfill their essential roles. Therefore, from a biblical standpoint, the Fatherhood Training and Equipping Program (FTEP) is crucial for salvaging the male role and restoring a healthy and sane family and society. Research has shown that the FTEP not only addresses a major gap in the lives of families but also harnesses the strengths of fathers, enabling them to make significant contributions to their homes and communities. Its primary goals are to enhance family life and address the fatherhood issue. The curriculum consists of a well-defined set of fundamental exercises and activities designed to facilitate learning, foster interpersonal skills through interaction and sharing, and develop critical thinking, decision-making, coping mechanisms, motivation, and commitment to action.

Fields of synergy - theory and practice of cooperation between social enterprises and business

Face of social, economic, environmental challenges and proliferation of multi-crises - a development of social entrepreneurship, involvement and civic activism become very desirable. A need for interactions and cooperation between various groups of actors present in the local spaces is often seen as the contemporary paradigm. The aim of the study is to conceptualize the cooperation process between social enterprises and business. The presented results of empirical research constitute the basis for identifying potential areas of cooperation to increase the potential of social entrepreneurship. The research is based on a case study conducted in a local environment. Theoretical research was conducted using the deductive method. Empirical research methodology was used in the form of interviews and business modeling techniques. The phenomenon of cooperation was explored against the background of opportunities to develop social entrepreneurship, strengthen the potential of cooperating enterprises and achieve benefits for local communities. The result of the research is the discovery of the basic dimensions of practical and effective cooperation between social enterprises and business in the form of an analog-representational model. In the proposed research approach, mutual involvement in joint initiatives based on active involvement, lasting and interactive cooperation and sharing was considered crucial. The research covered the context of creating innovation potential, outsourcing services, implementing the common good and sharing resources. It seems that the presented approach may be universal and can be extrapolated to other regions and cultural contexts.

The Urban Hospitalisation Experience of Rural People: A Scoping Review.

Hospitalisation is often typically a stressful experience, but in the face of admission into hospital at a distance from home, the experience can be particularly anxiety-provoking. To describe the urban hospitalisation experiences of rural patients and their relatives who have travelled and relocated for treatment and determine the scope and coverage of the literature on this issue. The review utilises a scoping review method. CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and EMBASE were searched for primary studies dated from inception to October, 2022. Thirty-four articles were included in the review. Using an inductive narrative approach, data were extracted, collated and summarised into key themes. Six themes were identified: Rural Indigenous peoples' experience, the promise of urban quality, separation from support networks, interactions with staff, managing out-of-hospital responsibilities and transitioning home. Underpinned by isolation and unfamiliarity, hospitalisation away from one's local community entails significant psychological stress that compounds the stresses of illness that require admission into the hospital. Findings demonstrate the dynamic nature of the healthcare encounter, illustrating the multiplicity of the experience and how some aspects of the experience cut across others. This scoping review conceptualises the urban hospitalisation experiences of rural people and illustrates the impact of isolation and unfamiliarity on their in-hospital behaviours, perceptions and interactions. PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). No Patient or Public Contribution.

Can batik craft products in the red-light area improve sustainable social and economic impact? A case study of the largest former prostitution area in Southeast Asia

The batik industry in the ex-Dolly area of Surabaya has undergone significant transformation from its history as a red-light district to a hub for creative batik production. This study aims to assess the environmental and social impacts of the development batik industry in the ex-Dolly area using the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) method. Through a qualitative case study approach, key stakeholders including batik artisans, local communities, and government agencies were engaged to evaluate the industry's sustainability and development. Baseline data collection and impact assessments revealed both positive and negative effects on the environment and social well-being of artisans. Mitigation measures were proposed to address issues such as water pollution, waste management, and working conditions. The results and discussions highlighted the importance of sustainable practices and community involvement in enhancing batik industry's overall impact. The study concludes that by implementing targeted strategies and monitoring mechanisms, the batik industry in the ex-Dolly area can achieve long-term sustainability and positive social outcomes. The implications of this research extend to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and local communities, emphasizing the need for responsible environmental and social practices in the development of creative industries.

Mazowiecki Projekt Edukacyjny „Aktywni Społecznie”

The Masovian Educational Project „Socially Active” was developed and implemented to increase the involvement of children and teachers of educational institutions in social life in the Masovian Voivodeship. Project participants were kindergarten groups and primary school students, whose task was to present social activities in the Facebook group by performing tasks in accordance with the project regulations. 25 educational institutions completed the project and participated in a summary meeting, during which the project authors awarded the facilities with certificates and statues for coordinators. As a result, the authors of the project achieved the involvement of the young generation, teachers and the local community in the education and culture, which leads to the development of these fields and contributes to increasing the attractiveness of the region. Regardless of the chosen form of activity, it is important to act with passion and commitment and to contribute to positive changes in the life of the local community.

Evaluating China–Brazil bilateral engagements in climate change and energy: a true sustainability partnership or green appropriation?*,**

In recent years, China has emerged as a crucial trading partner for Latin America, particularly Brazil. Both countries are major greenhouse gas emitters striving to achieve climate goals and a net-zero future. In 2023, Brazil and China’s new Joint Statement on combating climate change reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in climate actions and sustainability. However, China has significant influence over agricultural practices and deforestation in the pan-Amazon region because of being a substantial importer of Brazilian beef and soybeans. Meanwhile, during the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), Brazil’s State-owned oil company, Petrobras, entered into agreements with Chinese firms to accelerate its energy transition while paradoxically continuing significant investments in the oil sector. Dispute cases also reveal that, despite the outward appearance of harmonious bilateral cooperation between the two countries, local communities and indigenous peoples who rely on the Amazon Forest experience environmental degradation, habitat destruction, displacement and human rights violations. In light of the apparent contradictions mentioned earlier, this article aims to assess whether China and Brazil have genuinely established a sustainable partnership or if there is evidence of a phenomenon often referred to as ‘green grabbing’. By comparing their efforts with an ­advanced modern bilateral agreement in this field, the Singapore–Australia Green Economy Agreement, this article aims to create a conceptual framework that captures the key elements for sustainability and peacebuilding within the context of their bilateral engagement.

Comparative study of hypertension, diabetes, dementia and smoking in military veterans and non-veterans: a quantitative study using primary healthcare data

IntroductionPrimary healthcare (PHC) patient medical records contain Systematised Nomenclature of Medicine-Clinical Terms (SNOMED-CT) that include information regarding diagnosis, demographics and veterans’ status. This study intended to identify, analyse and compare...

A Collaborative Governance Perspective in Ecotourism Development in Ujung Kulon National Park, Banten-Indonesia

This research aims to examine ecotourism activities in Ujung Kulon National Park, Pandeglang Regency, Banten-Indonesia. This research uses qualitative methods, with a comprehensive case study approach. The focus of the research is on collaborative governance in the development of ecotourism in Ujung Kulon National Park. This research also pays attention to the various dimensions of the roles and functions of the actors involved since the starting condition phase, institutional design, facilitative leadership, and collaborative process (Ansell and Gash, 2008). Data collection techniques were carried out through observation, in-depth interviews with informants, literature studies, and tracking news in the mass media. Data and information were obtained through several sources of informants including: 1) actors of ecotourism activities such as the government (Ujung Kulon National Park and Pandeglang Regency Government), 2) local communities, 3) non-governmental organizations, and 4) the private sector as service providers. The results of the study found that collaborative governance as a model of cooperation for ecotourism activities in Ujung Kulon National Park Pandeglang Banten has been carried out, although there are still many obstacles and challenges. This can be seen in the implementation of citizen participation in the activity planning stage, several obstacles such as the inequality of knowledge of community members in understanding the concept of nature conservation and the concept of ecotourism, then the earthquake, the covid19 pandemic outbreak, and the central role of the Ujung Kulon National Park office. Collaborative Governance as a concept always refers to efforts to realize consensus and active participation from the stakeholders involved, as well as interdependence and common interests being factors that cannot be ignored.