National Strategy Research Articles

Unintentional drowning fatalities in Sweden between 2002 and 2021.

Despite declining over the past three decades, unintentional drownings still account for an estimated 236 000 annual deaths worldwide. Susceptibility persists amongst demographic groups and is influenced by sex, age, and socio-economic status, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. Due to rapidly evolving population dynamics, particularly within Europe, there is a further responsibility to understand the impact of ethnicity on the risks of drowning to guide prevention. We conducted a national population-based retrospective study using data from the Swedish National Board of Forensic Medicine and Statistics Sweden for the years 2002 to 2021. The analysis includes variables such as age, sex, presence of alcohol and narcotics as well as activity undertaken at the time of drowning and type of water body. Furthermore, we considered ethnicity to identify subpopulations at greater risks. Results revealed a plateau in unintentional drowning rates in Sweden since 2012, despite an overall decrease from 2002 to 2021. Findings confirm the trend that males are overrepresented within drowning statistics across all age groups, and that individuals aged > 50 constitute over half of all unintentional drownings. Men aged between 40-69 years boating, and individuals of non-Swedish origin, particularly those < 20 years of age, face a notably greater risk of drowning, underscoring the need for subpopulation-targeted prevention strategies. The ten-year plateau in unintentional drowning signals the need for an official national prevention strategy with annual evaluations. Suggestions also include improved parental supervision of children, further avoidance of alcohol while swimming and boating, as well as targeted swimming lessons and water competency training for individuals of non-Swedish origin.

Oneiros: The Sports Club: navigating the growth path

Learning outcomes After completion of the case study, the students will be able to analyze the challenges and opportunities associated with business expansion in any business, assess the significance of leveraging existing strengths versus exploring new markets for organizational growth, evaluate the implications of regional consolidation versus national expansion strategies, develop strategic thinking and decision-making skills in a competitive business landscape and understand the nuances of market dynamics, brand recognition and operational challenges in diverse geographical regions. Case overview/synopsis Oneiros – The Sports Club stood poised at a pivotal juncture, grappling with a strategic quandary that encapsulates the divergent visions of its leadership. The narrative unfolded in Surat, a vibrant city in the state of Gujarat where contrasting viewpoints champion the familiar stability of local success against the lure of uncharted state and national territories. Ms Hemali Shah advocated for consolidating the club’s triumphs in Gujarat, emphasizing on the parameters of brand loyalty and operational mastery. In stark contrast, Mr Robin Patel envisioned a bold expansion strategy across the state, aiming for brand recognition and a paradigm shift to regional prominence. Caught amidst these competing visions, Mr Sumit Lathia who was aspiring for the club’s national presence navigated the complexities of market dynamics and business model, oscillating between preserving familiarity and embracing the allure of ambition. This case study highlights the nuanced strategic dilemmas faced by Oneiros, offering a captivating exploration of growth strategies in a competitive landscape. With insights from various perspectives within the organization, this case study navigates the complexities of growth, market dynamics and the balance between familiarity and ambition. This case study offers valuable insights and practical applications for students pursuing regular Master of Business Administration (MBA) and executive MBA programs, as well as undergraduate and postgraduate studies in entrepreneurship and strategic management. By examining the strategic decisions and operational challenges faced by Lathia and Oneiros – The Sports Club, students can gain a deeper understanding of key concepts such as public–private partnerships, market expansion strategies, customer segmentation and revenue diversification. Complexity academic level This case study is positioned within the decision-making or business development modules of the curriculum. It serves as a platform to apply theoretical concepts of strategic decision-making, market analysis and growth strategies to a real-world scenario. This case study prompts students to critically evaluate expansion dilemmas and devise strategic solutions. Supplementary materials Teaching notes are available for educators only. Subject code Strategy.

The British Way of War: Julian Corbett and the Battle for a National Strategy

The British Way of War: Julian Corbett and the Battle for a National Strategy

Approaching onchocerciasis elimination in Equatorial Guinea: Near zero transmission and public health implication.

Onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) are endemic in Equatorial Guinea with notable variations in disease incidence between island and mainland regions. Historically, efforts to control and map these diseases were concentrated in Bioko Island, where loiasis is absent, allowing for targeted onchocerciasis interruption strategies. With the cessation of onchocerciasis transmission on Bioko and no reported cases on Annobon island, assessing the transmission status in the previously unaddressed mainland region has become imperative. Mapping efforts in mainland Equatorial Guinea have proven low to moderate level of transmission for LF and onchocerciasis, although the results so far have not been very conclusive. The current study aims to update the prevalence estimates for onchocerciasis and LF in mainland Equatorial Guinea using various diagnostic techniques. This is the first cross-sectional study carried out to estimate the prevalence of onchocerciasis and LF in the mainland area of Equatorial Guinea, from September to December 2019, based on the combination of skin snip biopsies, thick blood smears, laboratory serological tests (ELISA tests for the detection of IgG4 antibodies against Onchocerca volvulus recombinant antigen Ov16 and Wuchereria bancrofti recombinant antigen Wb123) and molecular laboratory tests. Frequencies and prevalence rates, along with 95% confidence intervals for interval estimation of a binomial proportion, were computed. The overall onchocerciasis seroprevalence calculated for the study was 0.3% (95% CI: 0.1 to 0.5%). Microscopic examination of skin biopsies from the eight individuals seropositive for Ov16, out of the 3951 individuals initially tested, revealed no O. volvulus microfilariae. However, DNA extracted from one skin snip was successfully amplified, with subsequent sequencing confirming the presence of O. volvulus. Among the 3951 individuals, 182 were found to have anti-Wb123 antibodies, suggesting exposure to W. bancrofti, with an estimated seroprevalence of 4.6% (95% CI: 4.0 to 5.3%). Microscopy and Filaria-real time-PCR (F-RT-PCR) analysis for W. bancrofti were negative across all samples. The findings indicate that onchocerciasis may no longer constitutes a public health problem in Equatorial Guinea, positioning the country on the verge of achieving elimination. Additionally, the mapped prevalence of LF will facilitate the formulation of national strategies aimed at eradicating filariases countrywide.

Artificial Intelligence in Morocco: Towards Holistic, Responsible and Ethical National AI Strategy for Moroccan Competitiveness and Strategic Intelligence

This paper analyses current achievements and emerging landscape of artificial intelligence in Morocco. It explores also the various challenges and opportunities related to the development of an AI ecosystem that facilitates the emergence of an agile, holistic, responsible, ethical, and forward-looking national artificial intelligence strategy that supports Morocco's global competitiveness and its strategic intelligence. Based on a methodological triangulation approach, we combined a documentary approach focused on a literature reviews and international benchmarks of national AI policies and strategies. In addition, we have proposed a conceptual model that outlines the essential elements and key enablers and drivers of the national AI strategy for Morocco. We have called it “LAFBAH AI Framework” focusing on Leadership &amp; Vision, Adaptive Governance, Forward-thinking, Breakthrough Innovations, Agility in Implementation, and Human centred approach. This model is predictive and prescriptive, and most importantly, aligned with the Moroccan priorities and strategic orientations of Morocco’s New Development Model. The study's findings show that Morocco possesses strategic assets that can help it establish itself as an AI hub for Africa and bolster its leadership and digital influence. These assets mainly include the country's international commitment to AI, its participation in AI cooperation programs, a dynamic creation of institutions and university centres dedicated to AI and the start of a virtuous public and political dialogue on the subject involving the private sector, academia and civil society.Our research argues in favour of a holistic and integrated approach to AI in Morocco, which combines AI Governance with technological innovation, ethical and societal considerations to promote sustainable and inclusive development and enhance Moroccan competitiveness. It also demonstrates the urgent need to design and ensure the implementation of an innovative, adapted and integrated national AI strategy for Morocco. This national AI strategy should be designed as an integrative, agile, dynamic framework with a clear and integrated vision, ambitious strategic objectives, relevant priorities and choices and key pillars of AI such as responsible, ethical and innovative governance and strong ecosystem enablers, collaborative research and development, AI talent and skills, sufficient data and infrastructure.We have also designed the fundamental and necessary milestones for a new ecosystem of artificial intelligence in Morocco focused on the imperatives of the knowledge society, the digital, health, food and energy sovereignties of the country, while aspiring to be a hub of artificial intelligence in Africa.

Impact of Nutritional Minerals Biomarkers on Cognitive Performance Among Bangladeshi Rural Adolescents—A Pilot Study

Background: Nutritional metals (NM) are essential for neurodevelopment and cognitive performance during growth. Nevertheless, epidemiological evidence regarding the associations between NM and brain function remains understudied, particularly among adolescents. Therefore, the objective of this pilot study was to examine the effects of NM biomarkers such as iron (Fe), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), and copper (Cu) on neurobehavioral functions among a group of rural Bangladeshi adolescents. Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 105 adolescents aged 13–17 from Araihazar, Bangladesh. Cognitive function was assessed using the computer-based Behavioral Assessment and Research System (BARS), focusing attention, memory, and executive function, and blood NM levels (Fe, Se, Zn, Mg, and Cu) were measured. Associations between individual minerals, NM composite scores, and cognition were analyzed using multiple linear regressions. Results: This study included 47 boys and 58 girls with an average age of 15 years. Fe levels were correlated with Continuous Performance Test (CPT) latency (r = −0.42, p &lt; 0.05) and Se levels correlated with Match-to-Sample (MTS) correct count (r = 0.32, p &lt; 0.01). Linear regressions showed that Se was associated with MTS correct count (b = 0.02, 95%CI: 0.01, −0.04), reflecting visual memory, and Fe was associated with CPT latency (b = −0.68, 95%CI: −1.11, −0.26), reflecting improved attention. The same BARS measures were also significantly associated with the 3-NM composite score. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that NM, particularly Fe, Se, and NM mixtures, could play a crucial role in brain development and neurocognitive function during adolescence. Further studies will help design national public health policies and strategies to address and mitigate brain health deficiencies among adolescents.

Analyzing how the timing and magnitude of electricity consumption drive variations in household electricity-associated emissions on a high-VRE grid

Abstract Electrifying the residential sector is critical for national climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies, but increases in electricity demand could drive-up emissions from the power sector. However, the emissions associated with electricity consumption can vary depending on the timing of the demand, especially on grids with high penetrations of variable renewable energy. In this study, we analyze smart meter data from 2019 for over 100 000 homes in Southern California and use hourly average emissions factors from the California Independent System Operator, a high-solar grid, to analyze household CO2 emissions across spatial, temporal, and demographic variables. We calculate two metrics, the annual household electricity-associated emissions (annual-HEE), and the household average emissions factor (HAEF). These metrics help to identify appropriate strategies to reduce electricity-associated emissions (i.e. reducing demand vs leveraging demand-side flexibility) which requires consideration of the magnitude and timing of demand. We also isolate the portion of emissions caused by AC, a flexible load, to illustrate how a load with significant variation between customers results in a large range of emissions outcomes. We then evaluate the distribution of annual-HEE and HAEF across households and census tracts and use a multi-variable regression analysis to identify the characteristics of users and patterns of consumption that cause disproportionate annual-HEE. We find that in 2019 the top 20% of households, ranked by annual-HEE, were responsible for more emissions than the bottom 60%. We also find the most emissions-intense households have an HAEF that is 1.7 times higher than the least emissions-intense households, and that this spread increases for the AC load. In this analysis, we focus on Southern California, a demographically and climatically diverse region, but as smart meter records become more accessible, the methods and frameworks can be applied to other regions and grids to better understand the emissions associated with residential electricity consumption.

Prevalence of multidrug-, extensively drug-, and pandrug-resistant bacteria in clinical isolates from King Khaled Hospital, Najran, Saudi Arabia

Abstract Background Saudi Arabia faces a growing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) problem, exacerbated by the widespread use of antibiotics in clinical and agricultural settings. Despite this, AMR surveillance has been limited, particularly in regions like Najran, making this study critical for informing local and national public health strategies. Aim This study explored the prevalence of multidrug-resistant, extensively drug-resistant, and Pandrug-resistant bacteria in Najran, Saudi Arabia. Study design This is a cross-sectional study. Methods This study included 559 diverse clinical samples (urine, wound, etc.) collected from various departments in King Khaled Hospital, Saudi Arabia. The Phoenix BD instrument was used for complete bacterial identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed statistically. Results Of the 559 samples, the culture positivity rates were as follows: 51% for Escherichia coli, 22% for Staphylococcus aureus, 14% for Klebsiella pneumoniae, 6% for Acinetobacter baumannii, 6% for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and 1% for Enterococcus faecium. Majority of the cases were from male (57%), and age 50+ (59%) recorded highest cases. Participants from outpatient department (OPD) ward recorded the highest (56%) cases, while urine sample recorded the highest (49%) cases. About 84% of the isolates were multidrug‑resistance (MDR), 10% were extensively drug‑resistance (XDR), and 6% pandrug‑resistance (PDR). Our analysis showed high sensitivity to Oxazolidonone, Tetracycline, carbapenems, Lipopeptide, Aminoglycopeptide classes of antibiotics. Conclusions The study revealed a high prevalence of drug resistance, highlighting the critical importance of continued surveillance and research to mitigate the spread of antimicrobial resistance and preserve the effectiveness of existing therapies.

Study on the synergistic evolution of environment and industry-a case study of provinces along the yellow river basin

The ecological protection and high-quality development of the provinces along the Yellow River Basin have become a major national strategy in China. However, the synergistic development of the environment and industry within the basin still faces numerous challenges. Research studies on the synergistic evolution of industry with the environment are important to guide future development of the provinces. This paper combines panel data from eight provinces in the Yellow River Basin from 2011 to 2020, utilizes the Entropy Weight TOPSIS method to evaluate the growth index of subsystems, and then employs the L-V model to measure the interaction force and synergistic degree of the environmental and industrial subsystems in the provinces along the Yellow River Basin. Finally, it simulates the synergistic evolution paths of each province under different scenarios. The study shows that: 1. From 2011 to 2020, the synergy effects in the upper and middle reaches of the Yellow River Basin exhibited an upward trend, while the synergy effects in the lower reaches demonstrated a downward trend. In the upper reaches, the shift was from mild non-synergy to mild synergy, in the middle reaches from mild non-synergy to strong synergy, and in the lower reaches from strong synergy to strong non-synergy. 2. The development model in the upper and middle reaches transitioned from a weakly beneficial relationship between industry and the environment to a mutually beneficial symbiotic model. In contrast, the lower reaches shifted from a mutually beneficial symbiotic model to a state of weak industrial benefits and strong environmental harm, ultimately reaching a state where both industry and the environment mutually harmed each other. 3. According to the forecast of industrial and environmental synergy for the next 30 years, Qinghai, Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, and Shanxi provinces would benefit the most from adopting a mutually beneficial symbiotic model. However, as the development of a symbiotic model requires more external support and incurs higher costs, it is essential for each province to select its development model based on its own economic conditions. Based on this, this paper provides a theoretical basis for the development of the environment and industry in the provinces along the Yellow River Basin.

CHALLENGES AND BARRIERS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ANTI-CORRUPTION POLICY AT THE NATIONAL AND REGIONAL LEVELS

This article explores the challenges and barriers faced in the implementation of anti-corruption policies at both national and regional levels in Ukraine, emphasizing the urgent need for effective measures to combat corruption, which remains a significant impediment to sustainable economic development, the establishment of a rule of law, and social justice. Despite numerous legislative initiatives and the establishment of specialized anti-corruption bodies, the implementation of anti-corruption policies is hindered by various factors. These include insufficient institutional capacity, the influence of political interests that compromise the independence of anti-corruption agencies, and an inadequate legislative framework that often fails to meet contemporary demands. Regionally, local elites frequently resist anti-corruption measures, compounded by low legal awareness among citizens and a lack of resources for effective oversight and investigations. This research employs qualitative analysis, drawing on existing literature and case studies to identify key challenges in anti-corruption efforts. It synthesizes perspectives from various scholars, including Al-Jundi, Shuhaiber, and Budsaratragoon, to highlight global insights while focusing on Ukraine's specific context. By analyzing these challenges, the study seeks to develop recommendations for overcoming barriers to effective anti-corruption implementation. It underscores the importance of enhancing institutional capabilities, promoting transparency, and fostering a culture of accountability. Ultimately, this research serves as a critical step toward establishing a robust anti-corruption framework that promotes a transparent and equitable society in Ukraine, necessitating a comprehensive approach that integrates national and regional strategies for optimal effectiveness. Through this work, the article contributes to the ongoing discourse on anti-corruption policies and their implementation challenges, providing actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners.

Survey to identify barriers and enablers to implementation of genomics in pharmacy practice across healthcare sectors in a rural community

Abstract Introduction The potential for genomics to improve patient outcomes is being harnessed via national strategy to embed genomic testing into NHS practice, and drive use of precision medicines and pharmacogenomics1. The national pharmacy genomics education and training strategic framework aims to empower the pharmacy workforce, across all sectors, to use genomics to support medicines optimisation2. Cornwall, a rural and coastal county, has areas of marked deprivation with poorer health outcomes3 and challenges in recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals. It is key that rural/coastal communities have equitable access to genomic services and expertise to avoid exacerbating pre-existing health inequalities. Aim To identify barriers and enablers to the implementation of genomics into pharmacy practice in a rural community. Methods Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians working in Cornwall were eligible to participate. An anonymised survey was compiled via Microsoft Forms of closed, multiple choice and optional open questions. Following piloting, the survey link was disseminated via email by pharmacy leaders in community pharmacy, primary and secondary care in May 2024. Responses were stored securely via NHS password protected IT systems and analysed via quantitative and thematic analysis. As this project is defined as a service evaluation, according to the UK NHS Health Research Authority, ethical approval was not required. Results Fourteen pharmacists and 7 pharmacy technicians participated, from primary and secondary care and community hospitals, with no participants from community pharmacy. Seven had received prior training in genomics (teaching sessions (n=5), webinars (n=1), podcasts (n=1), articles in journals (n=2)). One participant had received formal undergraduate training. Key barriers to the implementation of genomics included a lack of education and training (n=5), perceived cost of genomic testing (n=2), difficulty in accessing genomic services (n=1) and lack of expert panels (n=1). It was also felt that genomics services were limited to secondary/tertiary care (n=2). Respondents stated that the rural location impacted the availability of face-to-face training and resources to support training (n=17). Key enablers were the opportunity for precision prescribing (n=8), and improved patient outcomes (n=7). Genomics education and training (n=5) and resources to support training (n=11) were viewed as being pivotal to supporting the mainstreaming of genomics. Discussion and conclusion Participants were keen to further their genomics knowledge, with a preference for face-to-face training. Respondents also highlighted the need for allocated resources to support training. As emphasised in the strategic framework2, workforce upskilling is vital to the successful mainstreaming of genomics, particularly when the majority of pharmacy staff had not received any formal training. There were no participants from community pharmacy, indicating a requirement to further explore barriers and enablers in this cohort. Community pharmacy staff may be reluctant to participate if they perceive genomics to relate solely to secondary/tertiary care. Survey methodology also limited the detail that could be obtained from respondents. This provides helpful preliminary insights on barriers and enablers to genomics implementation into pharmacy practice in rural/coastal areas. Themes could be further explored via semi-structured interviews, with the aim of shaping interventions necessary to ensure equitable provision of genomics services and expertise to these communities.

Prioritization of the Sustainable Development Goals in the sustainability transition process of sport organizations: national strategies and sport managers’ perspectives

Prioritization of the Sustainable Development Goals in the sustainability transition process of sport organizations: national strategies and sport managers’ perspectives

Significant shift of footprint patterns and pollutant source contributions: insights from observations at Shanghuang observatory, East China

Abstract As two of the most important products of the combustion process, carbon dioxide (CO2) and carbon monoxide (CO) are commonly used as tracers for combustion source assignment. Their relationship will help to better understand the regional carbon cycle and assess climate forcing effects. In this study, mixing ratios of CO2 and CO were continuously measured using a Picarro gas concentration analyzer at the Atmospheric Boundary Layer Eco-Environmental Shanghuang Observatory, Chinese Academy of Sciences (ABLECAS) throughout 2022–2023. The variability of the mixing ratio of CO to CO2 (ΔCO/ΔCO2) in a 1 h time interval was calculated based on linear slope analysis after background values were determined and subtracted. The results showed that the mixing ratio of CO had a clear seasonal variability with a moderate increase in the spring (249.1 ± 59.6 part per billion (ppb)) and winter (257.8 ± 90.3 ppb), mostly due to more frequent transport from north of the Yangtze River. ΔCO/ΔCO2 at the ABLECAS varied with air mass origin, with a linear slope 0%–1% on a 1 h basis. Relatively high ΔCO/ΔCO2 values for an air mass from the north in the winter indicate that the emission sources had lower combustion efficiency. In summer, the ΔCO/ΔCO2 ratio mostly reflected the background conditions for air masses from marine areas. The potential source regions and contribution assignments were evaluatedat the ABLECAS according to source–receptor relationship analysis using the FLEXPART model with CO as a pollutant tracer from 2015 to 2023. We found that the footprint of an air mass had a clear transition period between 2018 and 2019, and a synoptic anomaly, related to Arctic Oscillation strength and west Pacific subtropical high position, plays a key role in influencing the pollutant transport patterns. This study provides a scientific basis for the formulation of air quality regulation policy, and helps to implement the national carbon neutralization strategy.

Beyond Borders : Addressing the Legal Quagmire of Jurisdiction in Cyberspace

This article delves into the complex scenario of governing cyberspace, addressing key issues such as accessibility, digital disparities, and the regulatory challenges posed by cross-border activities, and applicable test by judiciary across the globe while resolving such emerging issues. Despite technological progress, cyberspace largely remains an unregulated realm, creating opportunities for cybercrimes such as stalking, data breaches, exploitation of minors, and hacking. The lack of a cohesive global governance structure makes tackling these issues a formidable task. The article offers a critical assessment of the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, the sole international treaty on cybercrimes, pointing to its limited acceptance, especially among ASEAN nations. This hesitation underscores an ideological rift: some countries prioritize cyber sovereignty, while others support a multi-stakeholder model that incorporates contributions from governments, private enterprises, and civil society. These divergent views present barriers to legal harmonization and obstruct cross-border collaboration in prosecuting cyber offenders and ensuring data protection. To address these multifaceted challenges, the article suggests a layered governance approach, integrating global frameworks with regional alliances and national strategies. This model encourages international cooperation while respecting national sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships to bolster cybersecurity. Furthermore, it advocates for investments in digital infrastructure and cyber literacy programs to reduce the digital divide, facilitating broader, fairer access to online spaces. Ultimately, the proposed governance model seeks a balanced approach, safeguarding individual rights alongside the imperatives of security and accountability, and aiming to cultivate a cyberspace that is safer, more inclusive, and subject to responsible oversight.

Wishing for a more sober society: A scoping review on addiction problems and treatment in Greenland preceding the 2016 national treatment strategy

Wishing for a more sober society: A scoping review on addiction problems and treatment in Greenland preceding the 2016 national treatment strategy

Decolonising Plant-Based Cultural Legacies in the Cultural Policies of the Global South

Abstract The promotion and preservation of cultural legacies, including botanical traditions, are integral components of national identity and development strategies in many countries, particularly in the Global South. However, the manner in which cultural policies address plant-based heritage is not only influenced by contemporary priorities but also deeply rooted in historical contexts, shaped by colonial legacies. A comparative reading of the cultural policies of India and Nigeria, this research investigates the impact of colonial history on plant-based cultural heritage policies in the Global South. The study pulls from the Postcolonial and Critical Heritage Studies frameworks, to argue that the formulation and implementation of cultural policies on botanical plant heritage have been greatly impacted by colonial legacies. The result is the disparities in conservation endeavours and relegation of autochthonous knowledge. By shedding light on the on-going effects of colonialism on cultural practices and environmental conservation in the Global South, this research offers insights for policymakers, culture and heritage practitioners, and scholars seeking to address the issues around colonial legacies in cultural heritage management. It also seeks to provoke discourses on equitable and sustainable approaches to plant-based heritage preservation.

Reshaping the Baltic Identity: Russian Soft Power and the Security Strategies of Latvia and Estonia

Purpose: This research paper delves into the crucial influence of Russian soft power policies on Latvia and Estonia's national identities and security strategies, with a particular focus on their Russian-speaking populations. Methodology: Utilizing a constructivist approach, the study conducts a comparative discourse analysis of security strategies and identity dynamics in the Baltic States before and after the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the onset of the Russian-Ukrainian war in 2022. Main Findings: The analysis reveals how Latvia and Estonia construct their national identities in opposition to Russia, framing it as a negative Other while viewing the EU as a positive reference point. This dynamic significantly shapes their security policies. Implications: The findings of this research underscore the pivotal role of national identities in shaping security strategies. They also provide valuable insights into the broader implications for European integration in the face of ongoing geopolitical tensions. Novelty: This research offers a unique perspective on the interaction between Russian-speaking minorities and national identity formation in Latvia and Estonia. It contributes to a deeper understanding of security in the context of soft power dynamics, providing a nuanced view that is distinct from existing literature.

Development of Cross-Sector Collaboration Indicators for Accelerating the Reduction of Stunting in South Sulawesi, Indonesia

Background: To reduce stunting, the government of Indonesia, which has the fifth-highest prevalence of stunting in toddlers, launched the National Strategy for the Acceleration of Stunting Prevention (StraNas Stunting). Despite involving multiple sectors, stunting rates remain high. This research aimed to develop cross-sector collaboration indicators to assess the effectiveness of cross-sector efforts in reducing stunting. Method: This qualitative study utilized a rapid assessment procedure (RAP) to generate cross-sector collaboration indicators through in-depth interviews with five key informants and four experts. The recurring themes from these interviews were identified as indicators, which were further refined. In the second phase, quantitative analysis was conducted with 50 respondents to test the developed indicators using Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) methods. Result: A total of 15 indicators and 41 sub-indicators of cross-sector collaboration were developed across five key dimensions: governance, administration, autonomy, mutuality, and norms. Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was performed to validate the indicators, with the results showing that the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) for each dimension was greater than 0.5, and the Composite Reliability (CR) exceeded 0.7. These findings confirm the validity and reliability of the developed indicators. Conclusion: As recognized by experts, the theory of cross-sector collaboration has been further advanced by the cross-sector collaboration indicators generated in this study. Additionally, these indicators, which were based on five dimensions of collaboration, may be used to assess cross-sector performance for the Stunting Acceleration Program in Indonesia. The framework of this study for defining and assessing collaboration was expected to provide a foundation for further research.

Levelling up in a ‘decentralised’ England: place-based or ‘one-size-fits-all’ strategies?

ABSTRACT English policymaking has traditionally been centralised, assuming homogenous needs across regions and contributing to economic inequalities. The Levelling Up Agenda aims to address these disparities through a place-based approach using devolved Combined Authority (CA) organisations. Despite being the first national strategy with an extensive place-based focus, it faces criticism as a potentially centralised political tool. Concerns also exist about whether Combined Authorities can deliver regional economic development as they have centrally controlled aspects. If regional planning approaches are identical, decentralisation through Combined Authorities would essentially be futile. This paper uses a novel quantitative method with Strategic Economic Plans to determine if regional planning inhibits a place-based or ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach, contributing data-driven insights to the debate regarding the efficacy of Combined Authorities. Through exploratory text analysis, hierarchical and K-means clustering, findings indicate regions adopt place-sensitive planning with varying sector priorities. A northern-southern and an inland-coastal distinction emerge, with London as an outlier. This suggests Combined Authorities are fit for purpose at this quantitative clustering level and do consider their geographical context in planning despite a devolved yet centrally controlled oxymoronic landscape. Collaborations like an inland and a coastal CA network are recommended to potentially maximise place-based growth.

Implementing regional blue economy research and innovation strategies: a case study for the Black Sea

The Black Sea is a vital resource with vast potential to boost the societal value of the Blue Economy for its surrounding countries. Improved knowledge and enhanced infrastructure together with better coordination and alignment of research and innovation efforts are critical for the better management of the deteriorated Black Sea ecosystem to help restore and maintain its resilience and enable sustainable use of natural resources. In 2019, the Black Sea Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (Black Sea SRIA), was developed by the Black Sea experts, in cooperation with European marine institutes and organizations, with the support of the European Commission. Black Sea SRIA presents the priorities and ecosystem-based management options needed for a healthy, sustainable, and resilient Black Sea. Since 2019, efforts focused on developing concrete actions under the Black Sea SRIA Implementation Plan (IP) to contribute to the national blue economy strategies, better structuring of the relevant funding mechanisms for solution-oriented implementation and the international and regional strategies, supporting the co-funding mechanisms. In this study, we present a transnational process that has led to the development of the IP which utilized a bottom-up, co-design and co-creation-based approach. The SRIA and its IP support better governance of the blue economy principles towards sustainable development and conservation of unique Black Sea ecosystems. The Black Sea SRIA and IP address the fundamental research challenges of the region, promote the blue economy, and also build vital support systems and innovative research infrastructure and capacity together with academia, funding organizations, industry, policy, civil society and local communities. The IP is a long-lasting guide to catalyze new ideas and innovations towards and with the Black Sea community with strong implications for other sea basins.