Local Welfare Research Articles

The Welfare System in the Face of War Refugees From Ukraine: The Experience of Social Workers in Poland

ABSTRACTThis article explores the experiences of social workers in Poland assisting Ukrainian War refugees in the immediate aftermath of the Russian invasion in 2022. It adopts a ‘culture of disaster’ framework, positioning social workers as professionals responding to macro‐level crises and disasters. The research is based on a quantitative survey (computer‐assisted web interview [CAWI]) of social workers in municipalities with the highest refugee populations (N = 402). The article shows that the majority of social workers were primarily involved in an emergency response, focusing on meeting basic social needs. However, their involvement in social inclusion and advocacy was significantly less common. Social workers reported high levels of community support and valued working with local communities. The research highlights the challenges faced during the crisis, including professional overload, inadequate regulatory frameworks and the perception of local welfare centres as the only support structures for refugees.

Revisiting the threefold typology? An exploratory analysis of homelessness duration and recurrence in Belgium using administrative data

ABSTRACT This study explores administrative data from 2010 to 2018 to examine homelessness duration and recurrence in Belgium. We focus on people experiencing homelessness (PEH) with a reference address at a local welfare agency. By critically revisiting the classic threefold typology – transitional, episodic, and chronic, which is often derived from limited shelter-based data – the study adopts a four-group classification: first-timers, re-enterers, chronic and extremely chronic homelessness. Our findings align with prior research, confirming significant associations of shorter durations with families, women, and younger individuals. Interestingly, the majority of our dataset faces chronicity, including youth and families. Extremely chronic homelessness highlights administrative vulnerability, suggesting to reduce administrative barriers to enhance their access to rights. Providing a more nuanced understanding of duration and recurrence, based on administrative data over extended periods, is crucial for gaining deeper insights into the chronicity of homelessness, ultimately supporting more informed policy decisions.

The power of digitalization: A study of the effect of the digital economy on household energy poverty

Severe energy poverty is one of the major challenges hindering the achievement of sustainable development in developing countries, while the current rapid advances in the digital economy offer new ways to alleviate energy poverty, the household-level effects of which urgently need to be supported by more empirical research. Using Chinese household-level panel data from 2010 to 2020, we identify the causal effects of the digital economy on household energy poverty by employing the "Broadband China" pilot policy and applying the difference-in-differences (DID) method. Research shows that the digital economy can significantly mitigate household energy poverty, especially among low earning and low educational inputs households. Improving energy accessibility through increased Internet use and promoting energy affordability through increased employment and income are the main channels through which the digital economy can exert an energy poverty reduction effect. Moreover, welfare analyses indicate that the power of digitalization not only reduces household energy poverty, but also further enhances the residents' welfare and improves local carbon reduction welfare performance. This study will provide new ideas from the viewpoint of digital economy development to improve household energy poverty governance in developing countries.

The needs and prioritization of nutrition and dietary support for individuals with disabilities: an exploratory study

Objectives: Based on a survey of officers, social workers, and dietitians involved in managing nutrition and welfare policies or projects for vulnerable groups in local governments or private welfare institutions, this study aimed to assess the need for nutritional and dietary support policies and programs for persons with disabilities (PWD), as well as to identify appropriate support measures. Methods: An online survey was conducted from March 2 to 15, 2021. The survey included 20 questions exploring perspectives on the nutritional status of PWD, their need for nutritional and dietary support policies and programs, and the prioritization of appropriate support measures. A total of 132 responses were analyzed. Results: Approximately 68.9% of the respondents rated the nutritional status of PWD as “bad” or “very bad.” A substantial number identified “difficulty in purchasing ingredients, cooking, and preparing meals independently due to disability,” and “limited knowledge about nutrition and recipes necessary for maintaining a healthy and balanced diet” as the primary challenges in the dietary and nutritional management of this population. Additionally, 97.0% of the respondents deemed that the introduction of nutritional and dietary support policies and programs for PWD was “needed” or “very much needed.” Priority strategies to implement and strengthen these policies and systems included the “development of customized programs and services tailored to the needs and demands of the target population” and the “establishment of a dedicated department with specialized personnel.” Conclusion: Comprehensive nutritional and dietary support policies and programs should be actively implemented to ensure a healthy and stable diet for PWD, tailored to meet their actual needs and demands.

Co-planning as a public health tool: the Milan Health Protection Agencies’s Local Gambling Plan

Abstract Issue/problem Gambling represents a public health, social, and economic problem. Lombardy Region, according with national and regional law, has approved the Regional Plan for the prevention and contrast of Pathological Gambling. The Health Protection Agencies (HPA) of the Metropolitan City of Milan, as the other HPAs, implemented the Local Gambling Plan, based on a context analysis and in synergy with all the actors involved. Description of the problem Since 2019, the Milan HPA’s Local Gambling Plan has been implemented through collaboration with non-profit entities (TSEs), which are involved via public tendering. The implementation of the new Italian ‘Code of the Third Sector’ changed the TSEs engagement modalities. For this reason, a complex co-planning process has been initiated in order to increase the level of active citizenship and to enhance public health, in line with horizontal subsidiarity principle. Results The Co-planning procedure promoted the integration among local health services, non-profit entities and municipalities with the aim of gambling prevention and contrast, ensuring the continuity of prevention programs and the involvement of local stakeholders in addressing a public health issue. During the co-planning, 9 working groups were established to define objectives, project actions, monitoring and evaluation methods, ensuring the common interest of all actors involved. Lessons For the health and social system, the co-planning procedure becomes an opportunity to translate what is foreseen by the regulations into local actions. It allow the active participation of local stakeholders involved into the co-construction and achievement of public health objectives and the promotion of communities’ empowerment. Key messages • Co-planning is both a process and a tool for local welfare. • Co-planning involved multiple actors, among which the public institution that ensures satisfaction of health needs through governance actions.

The Local Welfare State and Differences in Racialized Poverty

ABSTRACT Researchers concerned with the U.S. welfare state have documented that more localized administration allows for greater geographic variation in public policies as well as the greater potential for racial discrimination to influence policy outcomes. I explore whether key attributes of the local welfare state, capacity and spending, are associated with differences in racialized poverty across localities. I develop a conceptual framework drawing on two sociological traditions: spatial inequality framework and local welfare state theory. Spatial inequality scholarship provides a framework for interrogating why poverty varies across localities and racialized groups. Local welfare scholarship conceptualizes the processes by which local governments impact poverty and how those processes may be highly racialized. Drawing on data from the Census of Governments, I examine all local governments’ capacity and spending across counties in the U.S. and their association with poverty rates among white, Black, and Hispanic populations. I find that local governments’ capacity and spending do matter to understanding differences in racialized poverty. Specifically, racialized groups perceived as more deserving are likely to be the beneficiaries of local government interventions and policies. This study calls for greater attention to the local welfare state as a possible mechanism maintaining racial stratification.

Village Consultative Body's Contributions to Development in Balongdowo Village

Background: Village consultative bodies (BPD) play a vital role in promoting good governance at the local level. Specific Background: This study examines the implementation of BPD's roles in a specific village context, focusing on their effectiveness in enhancing transparency and participation. Knowledge Gap: Existing literature lacks exploration of the practical applications of BPD roles and their impact on governance across different regions. Aims: This research analyzes how BPD executes its responsibilities, emphasizing its regulatory functions. Results: Findings show that BPD effectively implements its regulatory roles, contributing to improved village governance through adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and strong budgetary support from the local government. Novelty: This study highlights the collaboration between BPD and local government, providing a replicable model of good governance. Implications: The research emphasizes the need to strengthen BPD-local government relationships to enhance community welfare and suggests improving SOPs to achieve collective governance goals, contributing to the discourse on local governance effectiveness. Highlights : Effective Collaboration: Highlights the successful partnership between BPD and local government. Regulatory Functions: Emphasizes BPD's role in enhancing governance through established procedures. Community Impact: Illustrates the positive effects of BPD's actions on local welfare and development. Keywords: BPD, local governance, regulatory roles, community welfare, transparency

The Role of PKK in Sustainable Community Empowerment

The general background while community empowerment is widely studied, the specific contributions of PKK remain underexplored. Specific background this study focuses on PKK's role in Tambak Kalisogo Village, particularly within sustainable community empowerment programs. Knowledge Gap Existing literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of PKK's multifaceted role in community development initiatives. Aims this research aims to elucidate the various roles of PKK, including its functions as a motivator, facilitator, mobilizer, and regulator in community empowerment. Results the findings reveal that PKK effectively organizes activities, provides guidance in food processing, ensures quality in production, and complies with governmental regulations, thus significantly impacting community welfare. Novelty this research contributes to the field by presenting a detailed examination of PKK's diverse functions in fostering community development and enhancing the economic capabilities of women. Implications Strengthening PKK's initiatives can further improve community welfare, encouraging women's participation in economic activities, and leading to more prosperous and resilient families. Highlights: PKK functions acts as a motivator, facilitator, mobilizer, and regulator in community initiatives. The study demonstrates PKK's effectiveness in enhancing local economic welfare through various programs. Strengthening PKK's efforts fosters women's participation, contributing to improved family income and welfare. Keywords: PKK, Empowerment, Welfare, Community, Economy

Strategi Komunikasi Corporate Social and Responsibility PT. Siringo-Ringo Rantauprapat Dalam Pemberdayaan Masyarakat di Sekitar Lingkungan Perusahaan

This research analyzes the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices at PT. Siringo-Ringo with a focus on community empowerment in the village of Bandar Kumbul. The research method employed is qualitative with a case study approach. The findings indicate that PT. Siringo-Ringo has successfully implemented a holistic CSR program, involving local stakeholders such as village government, community leaders, and the local populace. The CSR program encompasses various areas including education, economics, and community empowerment. This research provides in-depth insights into the positive impacts generated by PT. Siringo-Ringo's CSR program on the company's relationship with the community and local welfare. The implications of these research findings suggest that the qualitative approach offers a profound understanding of CSR dynamics and contributions within the specific context of the company and its local environment.

The Influence of Financial Literacy and Entrepreneurial Spirit on the Welfare of Weaving Craftsmen in Bali

This study analyzes the influence of financial literacy and entrepreneurial spirit on the welfare of ate weavers in Karangasem Regency, Bali. Using multiple regression methods, data were collected from 95 respondents who were ate weavers. The results of the analysis show that financial literacy has a positive and significant influence on welfare with a coefficient of 0.45 (p-value <0.01), while entrepreneurial spirit also contributes positively with a coefficient of 0.35 (p-value <0.05). The research model explains 62% of the variation in the welfare of craftsmen. These findings indicate that increasing financial literacy and entrepreneurial spirit can improve the welfare of ate weavers. Therefore, training programs in both aspects are highly recommended to support local economic growth and community welfare.

Analisis Kerjasama Antara Anggota TNI dan Pemerintah Daerah Papua dalam Menangani Konflik di Papua

The province of Papua has long been affected by conflicts involving political issues, autonomy, ethnic diversity, natural resources, and human rights. This conflict began during the colonial period and continued after Papua became part of Indonesia in 1945, particularly following the 1969 Pepera, which many Papua residents deemed unfair. Violence in Papua persists with numerous casualties, reflecting a severe security situation. Conflict management efforts involve synergy between the TNI and local government, with the TNI focusing not only on security but also on social and economic development. Collaboration between territorial apparatus and local government is expected to create stability but often faces challenges such as differing task perceptions and support for separatist groups. This study employs a qualitative research method with a case study approach, using interviews and literature review to gather data. The findings indicate that handling the conflict in Papua requires strategic measures, including increasing the presence of Satuan Komando Wilayah (Satkowil) at each administrative level, such as Kodim in districts and Koramil in sub-districts. Kodim and Koramil play a crucial role in maintaining security and supporting local development and community welfare. It is also important to map various types of conflicts—armed, communal, and social—and adopt appropriate approaches. Satkowil/Apter serves as a communication bridge between local government and the community, assisting in policy implementation and addressing conflicts proactively. Effective collaboration between territorial apparatus and local government is expected to enhance stability and progress in Papua.

TRANSFORMASI USAHA SAMPAN PADA KELOMPOK MASYARAKAT SUNGAI MELALUI OTOMATISASI DAN STRATEGI PEMASARAN INOVATIF

Area-based development emphasizes the optimal management of local resources to achieve community welfare. Kampung Beting, Pontianak, has great potential in transportation and river tourism but is hindered by a negative stigma as a center for drug trafficking. Through community service programs, business transformation is applied to the boat mining group with automation, installing waterproof canopies, using solar cell lights, and rebranding. The results show increased operational efficiency, revenue, and a regional image change. Innovative marketing strategies that capitalize on historical and cultural potential have successfully enhanced tourist attraction and local community welfare.

From case study to general principle: An analysis of the development mechanism and policy optimization of mangrove carbon sinks

Mangroves, as a crucial coastal ecosystem, possess significant carbon sink functions and play a key role in mitigating global climate change. This paper, based on the Zhanjiang Mangrove Afforestation Project in Guangdong, explores the development mechanisms and economic and ecological benefits of mangrove carbon sink projects through the lens of collective action theory and system dynamics modeling. The study finds that the primary reason for the unsustainable progression of mangrove carbon sink projects is the lack of intrinsic motivation among local villagers to engage in collective action. By constructing a system dynamics model, this paper quantifies the long-term impacts of mangrove carbon sink projects on local socio-economic welfare and proposes policy optimization recommendations. These recommendations include expanding income sources for local villagers, establishing carbon trading and ecological compensation mechanisms, and involving international non-governmental organizations. The findings of this study not only provide guidance for mangrove carbon sink projects in China but also offer valuable insights for the promotion of similar projects globally.

Driving Village-Owner Enterprises (BUMDes) Innovation as a Driving Force for Independent Village Development Through Inclusive Leadership

This study examines the role of inclusive leadership in driving innovation within Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) as a catalyst for self-reliant village development in Indonesia. The research employed a qualitative approach with case studies of BUMDes in Kulon Progo, Gunung Kidul, and Yogyakarta City. The study aims to analyze the dynamics of the innovation process in BUMDes and the innovation leadership models in place. Findings indicate that inclusive leadership accelerates innovation by empowering local communities, fostering collaboration, and creating a safe environment for experimentation. Case studies in Kulon Progo and Gunung Kidul demonstrate that successful product, process, marketing, and organizational innovations can enhance local economic growth, community welfare, and environmental sustainability. Strategies for promoting inclusive leadership include capacity building, community engagement, mentorship programs, and recognition. This research positively contributes to the study of innovation in BUMDes and offers practical insights for developing inclusive leadership models across various bureaucratic levels in Indonesia.

Dampak Perbaikan Jalan Terhadap Peningkatan Ekonomi Masyarakat Di Desa Mergosari Kecamatan Tarik Kabupaten Sidoarjo

This research aims to find out the impact of road improvements on improving the community's economic business in Mergosari village, Tarik, Sidoarjo. This research method uses qualitative research with descriptive methods. Data collection was done by conducting in-depth interviews with descriptive analysis method. The results showed that the impact of road improvements had a significant positive impact on increasing the economic efforts of the community in Mergosari village, Tarik, Sidoarjo. The implications of this research can be used as a basis for improving sustainable infrastructure development strategies to support local economic growth and community welfare in the region.

Local Wisdom and Farmer Welfare through the Nyadran Tradition: A Case Study in Panjang Village

Local Wisdom and Farmer Welfare through the Nyadran Tradition: A Case Study in Panjang Village

Growth to Support Need: Corporations and the Size of the Local Welfare Nonprofit Sector

Growth to Support Need: Corporations and the Size of the Local Welfare Nonprofit Sector

Road maintenance and local economic development: Evidence from Indonesia’s highways

This paper estimates the local welfare impacts of highway maintenance investments. We instrument road quality exploiting Indonesia’s two-step budgeting process for allocating funding to local road authorities. Using comprehensive data on road quality from 1990–2007, we find evidence that better roads help manufacturers create new jobs, enabling worker transitions out of informal employment, and increasing labor income. Road quality also changes the cost of living, reducing perishable food prices but also raising housing prices. We estimate the elasticity of household welfare with respect to road quality to be 0.1 and the benefit/cost ratio for road maintenance investments to be 2.3.

Analysis of Community and Stakeholder Relationships in the Development of Cigadung Creative Tourism Urban Village

This study examines local communities and stakeholders in the establishment of Cigadung Creative Tourism Urban Village in Bandung City. The success of Cigadung Creative Tourism Urban Village depends on effective cooperation between the local population, government, and tourism sector. This study uses qualitative descriptive research method included observation, interviews, and document analysis. The results demonstrated that local communities, especially Pokdarwis, are essential to tourism planning, management, and destination marketing. Government assistance and partnership with academics and businesses have helped this tourism urban community succeed. However, party coordination issues must be resolved by open communication and collaboration. This research sheds light on sustainable tourism development dynamics that can be used to benefit local welfare and culture.

Implementasi Keberlanjutan Pengelolaan Dana Zakat Untuk Meningkatkan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat

This research aims to describe the sustainable implementation of zakat fund management to enhance community welfare at LKS Al-Yasini. Utilizing a qualitative approach, data collection techniques such as observation, interviews, and documentation were employed. Data analysis involved processing, classification, interpretation, and drawing conclusions. The findings reveal that the sustainable implementation of zakat fund management at LKS Al-Yasini has provided tangible benefits for the local community's welfare. However, several challenges persist in program implementation. Therefore, it is recommended that LKS Al-Yasini continue to evaluate and improve zakat fund management to enhance the effectiveness of the program.