National Values Research Articles

Female, Deserving, and European? The Changing EUropean Migration Discourse in the Face of the Russia–Ukraine War

AbstractThe initial response of the European Union (EU) to people fleeing Ukraine was unusually univocal and welcoming, culminating in the swift activation of the Temporary Protection Directive. This predominantly humanitarian response represents a special case and an outlier in terms of how the EU and its member states have responded to previous displacements. This paper explores the discursive construction that made this response possible, by looking at how forced migration from Ukraine has been characterised in the EUropean political discourses. Drawing on discourse theory and critical migration studies, we assume that the discourse is marked by differences drawn along the lines of “race,” “gender,” and “distance,” which are linked to ideas about national identity and European values. In order to reflect the multilevel European discourse, we reconstruct the political discourse on the EU level as well as in two diverse cases, Poland and Germany. Our findings suggest that despite national differences and the presence of well-established tropes of deservingness, the EUropean discourse is not only based on ideas surrounding vulnerability of the Ukrainian Other and the European Self but is also influenced by the perception of the threatening Russian Other. Especially in Poland, welcoming refugees from Ukraine is linked to security concerns, while the EU and German discourses stress the role of European values and solidarity. Thus, the acceptance of Ukrainian refugees should be seen as part of the overall European response to Russian aggression and not as a departure from its previous stance on migration.

A Meta-Analytic Review of Transformational Leadership Research in Public Administration

Despite the increasing research attention devoted to transformational leadership in public administration, there is still concern over whether it is appropriate and effective in the public context. To answer the important question of whether and when transformational leadership is effective, this study meta-analytically reviewed transformational leadership research based on 70 primary studies that include 151 independent effect sizes from 718,601 participants. It was found that transformational leadership was significantly related to outcomes at both individual (motivations, attitudes, and behaviors) and organizational (performance and innovation) levels, and positively related to transactional leadership and leader-member exchange. Moderation analyses revealed that national cultural values and public/semipublic affiliation of the studied samples, as well as measurement scales of transformational leadership explained some of the transformational leadership-outcome relationship variations. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.

The Role of Education in Shaping National Political Identity

The purpose of this study is to examine the development of national political education in PTKI Bengkulu as a preventive measure against the dangers of identity politics, especially ahead of the 2024 elections. This study aims to identify effective strategies for integrating identity politics discussion into national political education. This qualitative study employed basic data gathering techniques through direct interviews and documentation, as well as secondary data collection from social media, scientific journals, and news websites. Research data were then reduced, classified/classified, and methodological conclusions drawn. This study identifies two primary measures for the development of national political education at PTKI Bengkulu. First, curriculum integration involves incorporating discussion of identity politics into representative topics, particularly through National Political Education (PKN) and Panchasheel, sub-discussion education. This approach enables students to critically analyze identity politics in the context of national values and principles. Second, the organization of academic forums such as seminars, workshops, interactive talk shows, panel discussions, and debates facilitates open dialogue, critical thinking, and awareness of identity politics, fostering deeper understanding among students, educators, and the wider community. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the importance of national political education in mitigating risks associated with identity politics. By integrating identity politics discussions into the curriculum and organizing academic forums, PTKI Bengkulu can play an important role in promoting national unity and resilience. The results of this study provide valuable insights for academics, policymakers, and stakeholders in addressing the challenges posed by identity politics.

The psychology of pandemic policy support: unraveling the complex interplay of personal values and value congruence across 20 European countries

ObjectivesWe explored the roles of personal values and value congruence—the alignment between individual and national values—in predicting public support for pandemic restrictions across 20 European countries. Study designCross-sectional study. MethodsWe analyzed multinational European survey data (N = 34,356) using Schwartz's values theory and person-environment fit theory. Multilevel polynomial regression was employed to assess the linear and curvilinear effects of personal values on policy support. Multilevel Euclidean similarity analysis and response surface analysis were conducted to evaluate the impact of value congruence and delineate nuanced congruence patterns. ResultsFindings revealed that extreme levels of security, conformity, stimulation, hedonism, and achievement values were associated with decreased policy support. Value congruence with security, conformity, and benevolence increased support, while congruence with stimulation, hedonism, and achievement reduced it. High congruence between personal and national social focus values significantly boosted policy support. Extreme mismatches in self-direction values amplified support. Societal power exceeding personal power also increased support. Matched levels of hedonism motivated greater support, while stimulation and achievement value (in)congruence showed little impact. ConclusionsWe highlight the differential effects of personal values and value congruence on public attitudes toward pandemic restrictions. The findings underscore the importance of considering the interplay between individual and societal values when designing and implementing effective pandemic response strategies.

Neuron-Specific Enolase as a Biological Marker for Welders' Pneumoconiosis.

The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between serum neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and welders' pneumoconiosis, through chest x-ray and serum NSE. The exposed group included 37 welders. The nonexposed group included 38 administrative workers. Both groups underwent history taking, clinical examination, chest x-ray, serum chromium, and serum neuron-specific enolase. Air sampling was done for total suspended particles, respirable particles, and welding fumes. All the air samples were within the national threshold limit values. Chest x-ray abnormalities were found in eight welders (21.6%), and included reticular opacities, scattered nodules or ground-glass opacities. Serum chromium and NSE were significantly higher among welders. Serum NSE correlated positively with the duration of exposure and serum chromium level among welders. Serum NSE can be used as a biomarker for early detection of welders' pneumoconiosis.

Measurement, Characteristic Facts and Policy Recommendations for China’s City-Scale Manufacturing Value Chains

This paper constructs and optimizes, for the first time, the decomposition framework of inter-city outflow and export from the urban scale and analyzes the basic characteristics of China’s urban manufacturing industry’s participation in the global value chain and national value chain from the perspective of temporal and spatial evolution. The results show that the participation index of the manufacturing industry in coastal cities is higher than that in inland cities, and inland cities are more inclined to rely on the domestic value chain to obtain superior resources for the development of the manufacturing industry. The indicators of the manufacturing industry in the cities of the province show excellent performance, while the indicators of the peripheral cities show poor characteristics. At the same time, the length index of the global value chain of the coastal city manufacturing industry is also consistent with the actual development of the urban manufacturing industry in China. The performances of China’s urban manufacturing industry in participating in the global value chain and the domestic value chain are different. Under the background of the new development pattern, the effective docking of the double chains should be realized to achieve high-quality development in the manufacturing industry.

PRESENTATION OF THE LEARNING MATERIALS DEPICTING CHARACTER EDUCATION VALUES IN THE ELT TEXTBOOK FOR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS: A CONTENT ANALYSIS

In education, the issue of character education has been considered necessary in developing students’ character. Furthermore, English Language Teaching (ELT) should teach students character education values in the textbook and its materials. This research aimed to investigate the learning materials depicting character education values presented or not in the textbook. The learning materials in this research were analysed, both visual and verbal materials depictions. This research was designed as a content analysis because it described the analysis of character education values found in the textbook. The research results of a content analysis revealed that to analyse the five core character education values covered in the textbook, specifically in semester 2. However, it was not all of them found in each chapter. The textbook only presented the character education values of nationalism, independence, mutual cooperation, and integrity, except religiosity with 15 data in total. The results imply that this research was necessary to provide opportunities to the textbook’s authors, English teachers, and future researchers that it was essential for them to deliver character development to students in the education context.

Beyond (Ethno)linguistic Determinism: Diverse Approaches to Nationalism in Habsburg-Austrian Schools

Abstract Research on the nexus between education and nationalism in the Habsburg Empire has often focused on the role that language may have played in top-down nationalization processes and the popular dissemination of national thought. According to contemporary nationalist logic, undergoing education in a certain language of instruction also entailed the internalization of nationalist values inherent to its corresponding nationalist movement. The present article argues that the Habsburg educational experience was much more contingent, and draws attention to the diversity of pedagogical approaches towards nationalism and nationality that could be encountered in Austrian schools during the last five decades of Habsburg rule. By using examples from German- and Slovene-language textbooks, it shows that sociopolitical, temporal, as well as institutional factors played an important role in determining the practical values and attitudes towards the nationalism that students encountered during their school years. With systematic empirical studies remaining rare, further research will be necessary to gain a fuller insight into the complexities of the Habsburg education system and its potential effects on popular collective identity formation.

Sheikh Abdullah Al‐Salem's use of soft power and public relations: Transformation from emirate to state

AbstractThis paper describes the main factors that helped facilitate the transformation of Kuwait from an Emirate ‘Emarah’ (a non‐state) to an internationally recognised state during the rule of Sheikh Abdullah Al‐Salem from 1950 to 1965. It identifies the soft power actions and public relations communication strategies that facilitated the transformation of Kuwait from Sheikhdom to statehood. Sheikh Al‐Salem's strategies set the foundations for Kuwait to become recognised and respected in international affairs, not only in the Middle East but also globally. Data were collected and reviewed from the academic literature, from public records, legal documents, letters, press releases and newspaper and magazine articles as well as songs and TV interviews. The evidence shows that Sheikh Al‐Salem's use of soft power actions and public relations techniques were influential in facilitating the formation of the new state and made Kuwait an important player in the international arena while maintaining Arab nationalism and Islamic values.

Strengthening Student Nationalism Through Civic Education at Timor University

This research aims to (1) Describe the strengthening of student nationalism through civic education at Timor University, (2) Analyze the obstacles and challenges in strengthening student nationalism through civic education at Timor University, (3) Analyze the efforts made in facing challenges and obstacles in strengthening student nationalism through civic education at Timor University. This research uses a case study method with a qualitative approach. Determination of research data sources using purposive techniques, namely: Civics lecturers, and Civics class students. Data collection techniques using observation, interviews and documentation techniques. Data analysis uses the Miles, Huberman, and Saldana model with three stages, namely: data condensation, data presentation and conclusion drawing. The results of this study indicate that (1) strengthening student nationalism through civic education is carried out by applying innovative and interactive learning methods, namely, lectures, discussions, and hands-on learning. (2) challenges and obstacles in strengthening student nationalism in the border region of Indonesia and Timor Leste are the complexity of cultural identity, limited facilities in learning, and technological developments. (3) efforts made in overcoming challenges and obstacles in strengthening student nationalism through civic education in the border areas of Indonesia and Timor Leste are carried out with several activities, namely the development of more interactive learning methods such as project-based learning, empowerment programs for nationalism values

IMPLEMENTATION OF INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE OF STATE PROTECTION OF NATIONAL VALUES IN UKRAINE

The author of the article reveals the purpose of implementing the international experience of the system of state protection of national values through the prism of two important trends that should be implemented and and enshrined in the practice of state-building processes in modern Ukraine. One of them stipulates that national values are the central core of the national security system security system, they define the triad of ‘values-interests-goals’. The second trend defines the system of creating mechanisms for legislative support of guaranteeing and protecting of national values, which is embodied in the systemic nature of the state policy on national development and is the actual consolidation of the civilisational civilisational choice of the Ukrainian nation at the level of legal acts. The purpose of the article is to analyse practical aspects of implementation of the state mechanisms for protection of national values in foreign countries and their implementation in the Ukrainian State. The author emphasises that national values of of modern Ukraine should not be subject to political bargaining, speculation, etc. They are are always an element of political struggle. Without this, political processes are impossible, and therefore, national values should be defined and prohibited for political speculation on them, which, by the way, requires the development of an institution of for their criminal law protection; and - to have its own system of mechanisms of legislative protection. It is determined that the first step towards the implementation of the experience of foreign countries in protecting national values should be the introduction of an all-Ukrainian analytical study of the system of national values. It should should be based on long-term and medium-term forecasts of domestic development and the development of the system of world politics, its specific regional and functional subsystems. This means that the full potential of national research institutes in the field of public opinion, civil society, and sociological research should be used to society, and sociological research should be directed within the framework of a single state policy to study and define national values.

Beyond Order and Progress: Legitimacy and Nation-Building in Military Brazil

Abstract Between 1964 and 1985, a military dictatorship in Brazil combined an arsenal of political instruments—surveillance, violent repression, and propaganda, among others—to justify its illegal rule. How did the Brazilian military regime attempt to justify its claim to power for more than two decades? What discursive strategies did it use to win popular support, despite the violence it perpetrated? This paper investigates how discourse is used to legitimize power and create meaning in authoritarian regimes. Using ethnographic content analysis of archival materials, I pinpoint and analyze three key discursive frames employed in regime propaganda: “defenders of democracy,” “Great Brazil” and “model citizenship.” I argue that the Brazilian military regime used these frames to justify its authority, forge national values and social norms, and redefine the boundaries of the national community. These findings not only contribute to our understanding of authoritarian power that is wielded and legitimized through discourse, but also speak to the enduring consequences of authoritarianism in sociopolitical subjects.

The Transformation of Ideology in The Social Life Processes of The New Uzbekistan

The extensive reforms being implemented in the New Uzbekistan are aimed at ensuring the priority of spiritual factors in all areas of social life. As we know, today there is intense struggle and competition in the world, and conflicts of interest are escalating. The processes of globalization are bringing unexpected problems along with immeasurable new opportunities for humanity. Threats and dangers to national identity and spiritual values are increasingly on the rise. A self-centered mindset, a casual attitude toward work and family, and a consumerist mentality are being subtly instilled in people’s minds, especially among the youth, through various means. The ideology of the New Uzbekistan that we are creating will be based on the principles of goodness, humanity, and humanism. By ideology, we primarily understand the education of thought and the cultivation of national and universal values. These are based on the centuries-old life understanding and values of our people, as emphasized by our president, Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

Towards ecological civilization: Spatiotemporal heterogeneity and drivers of ecological quality transitions in China (2001–2020)

Global urbanization and climate change have a profound influence on the ecological quality (EQ) of China. In this study, utilizing the Google Earth Engine, we calculated the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the China Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI) for the period 2001–2020. We analyzed its drivers using land use, socioeconomic, and climate data. According to the results, the national average RSEI values for 2001, 2010, 2016, and 2020 were 0.39, 0.41, 0.46, and 0.45, respectively, and the proportions of the moderate and upper grades were 54 % in 2001, 64 % in 2010, 76 % in 2016, and 73 % in 2020. The RSEI value in the forest cover area was higher than that in the urban built-up and non-vegetation cover area by 0.1–0.2. The correlation coefficients between each variable and RSEI presented a ladder distribution (along the trend distribution of the Huanyong line). Moreover, maximum temperature (Tmmx) consistently contributed the most to RSEI (the contribution rate was between 35 % and 40 %), followed by precipitation accumulation (Pre, the contribution rate was between 18 % and 28 %), and then DEM, GDP, population (PPP), and wind speed (VS), all with relatively lower contributions around 10 %. Furthermore, temperature surpassing 24 °C, precipitation below 90 mm, population exceeding 50, or GDP above 10,000 showed a negative correlation with RSEI. This study analyzed the regional differences in RSEI drivers in different regions of China, providing a reference for local targeted improvement measures.

Health Risk Assessment for Potential Toxic Elements in the Soil and Rice of Typical Paddy Fields in Henan Province

The accumulation of potential toxic elements in agricultural soil and rice is of particular concern in China. However, studies on the risk assessment of these elements in regional soil–rice systems remain limited. The aim of this study is to evaluate the pollution status and potential health risk of potential toxic elements in typical paddy soil and rice in Henan Province. A total of 80 soil samples and corresponding rice samples were collected to determine the contents of Cd, Pb, As, Cr, Cu, Zn, and Ni, and to assess their potential health risks to local consumers. Results showed that the average contents of these elements in soils were below the national risk screening values in GB15618-2018. Only the average content of Cr in rice exceeded the limit in GB 2762-2022 specified by the national food safety standard. The rates of exceeding the limits for Cd, Pb, As, and Cr in rice samples were 13.89%, 15.28%, 15.28%, and 27.78%, respectively. The health risk assessment indicated that rice intake for both adults and children caused carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks to varying degrees. Local residents are advised to purchase rice from outside the study area to meet their daily needs and strictly regulate the pollution of potential toxic elements within the area.

Determining the Fitness Level of People with Down Syndrome Living in Kosovo Based on the ALPHA Protocol

Purpose: This study aimed to establish national norm values for body composition and fitness levels among individuals with Down syndrome. It also aimed to investigate gender differences in body composition features and fitness parameters, analyze the impact of the region where individuals with Down syndrome reside, and compare their fitness levels with international peers. Methods: The sample included 81 participants, 40 females (height: 146.6±4.88 cm, weight: 63.6±16.4 kg) and 41 males (height: 157.4±6.21 cm, weight: 66.8±14.8 kg). To assess the physical fitness levels of the participants with Down syndrome, a modified version of the ALPHA testing protocol was used. Findings: The results demonstrated significant gender differences (p<0.05) in body composition and fitness parameters, with males generally exhibiting better outcomes compared to females. Moreover, significant disparities (p<0.05) in body composition and fitness parameters were observed among individuals with Down syndrome residing in different regions of Kosovo. Noteworthy gender disparities exist in terms of body composition and physical fitness metrics, with male participants achieving superior results compared to their female counterparts. Furthermore, noticeable variations were observed among the regional Down syndrome centers, with participants from older centers displaying improved fitness metrics and body composition features compared to those from newly established facilities. Conclusion: Gender differences in body composition and fitness were evident, with males outperforming females, except in muscle mass. Future studies should explore fitness and health barriers in Kosovo's DS population, with a focus on improving physical activity through tailored strategies.

ÜMUMTƏHSİL MƏKTƏBLƏRİNDƏ TƏHSİLİN İDARƏ OLUNMASININ BƏZİ PROBLEMLƏRİ

The article addresses significant issues pertaining to the administration of educational pro¬cess in high schools. Author highlights that, as Azerbaijan prepares to integrate into the global education system, significant challenges have emerged in the administration of the educational process. These issues, though complex, require prompt resolution. Some of these issues have been accumulating since the period of traditional education, while others have emerged as a consequence of the requirements set out in the State Education Reform Programme. The current content of the Azerbaijani education system presents significant obstacles to the develop¬ment of a global perspective among individuals from all professions, effectively limiting their potential for professional growth and development. The forms of education inherited from traditional education, the structure of the educational system, the distinction between theoretical knowledge and practical reality, the significance of certificates and diplomas, and the actual state of knowledge have created a situation of con¬flict. Author believes that it is necessary to ensure a critical examination of our historical past, to investigate the salient aspects of the administration of the existing educational system in developed European countries, and to identify more effective structures in this field for the renewal of our education system. The administration of Azerbaijan's education system should be based on universal and national values, the spiritual and moral qualities of the Turkic world and Islam.

Sports as an instrument of nationalism and patriotism: a systematic literature review on the role of sports in shaping national identity in various countries

This study investigates how nationalism and patriotism are reflected in sports across various countries through a systematic literature review (SLR). Sports are often used as a tool to disseminate nationalistic and patriotic values, shape national identity, and strengthen social and cultural bonds. This study identifies and analyzes relevant literature from the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases to provide a summary of current knowledge regarding the relationship between sports and nationalism/patriotism. The findings indicate that sports media plays a crucial role in propagating nationalism through the broadcasting of sports events, creating deep national narratives. Symbolism in sports also plays a role in reinforcing national identity, as seen in traditional sports in Scotland. Additionally, sports are used as a political tool to promote nationalism and political legitimacy, particularly in countries like China and South Korea, where sports heroes and naturalized players become symbols of nationalism and patriotism. The study also reveals that media shapes public perception of nationalism and patriotism through narratives that highlight athletes' achievements as a form of national sacrifice. Various theories and analytical approaches, including critical discourse analysis and necropolitical theory, are employed to understand the complex dynamics between sports and nationalism. In conclusion, sports have a multifaceted role in shaping social and cultural dynamics, as well as national identity in various countries. This research provides valuable insights for academics, policymakers, and sports practitioners in leveraging the potential of sports to promote nationalism, patriotism, and social cohesion at both national and international levels. By understanding this role, we can create a more cohesive and united society amidst increasingly complex global challenges.

Phytostabilisation of arsenic contaminated gold mine waste using the native species Juncus usitatus, Poa labillardieri and Themeda triandra

Arsenic (As) contaminated gold mine waste represents a significant issue for ecosystem and human health, as it is a known carcinogen and environmental toxin. Bendigo in Victoria, Australia, has reported As concentrations up to 22,000 mg/kg, exceeding the national soil guidance values (100 mg/kg) by 220-fold. To reduce exposure and potential human health risk, remediation or risk management strategies are required. Traditional remediation, such as excavation and landfill, often fail to improve soil conditions and are expensive. Biological remediation using plants (phytoremediation) represents a cost-effective strategy that results in the restoration of soil function and ecosystem services. There is a need to identify native plants for phytoremediation as current research focuses on fern species, which are not suitable for Bendigo. This study aimed to identify a native phytostabilising plant by conducting a mesocosm experiment involving Juncus usitatus, Poa labillardieri, and Themeda triandra. Plants grew in mine waste for 100 days; all survived and bioaccumulated As in the roots (phytostabilisation). Poa labillardieri grew significantly more biomass (roots 0.24 ± 0.01 g; shoots 0.22 ± 0.03 g (d/w)) and bioaccumulated the most As (~ 100 mg/kg plant biomass). The bacterial community was investigated to assess soil health and As association. The rhizosphere microbiota stabilised after root colonisation for Poa labillardieri and Themeda triandra, as indicated by richness and evenness changes. The two dominant phyla were Actinobacteriota and Proteobacteria, which displayed As tolerance. A keystone taxon, Latescibacterota, exhibited a positive relative association with As remediation. Poa labillardieri is a good candidate for future phytostabilisation trials.

MEMBANGUN KESADARAN KEWARGANEGARAAN DAN KEBERLANJUTAN PADA MAHASISWA PENDIDIKAN ANTROPOLOGI KELAS B STAMBUK 2021 UNIVERSITAS NEGERI MEDAN

Civic education plays an important role in shaping a critical, responsible, and aware young generation of citizens. Through this education, students are expected to be able to understand national values, pluralism, tolerance, and actively participate in social and political life, both on and off campus. Challenges such as discrimination, extremism, and social indifference still pose a threat to the spirit of citizenship among students. Therefore, civic education aims to raise awareness of the importance of national defense, democracy, and diversity. In addition, this education also emphasizes the importance of sustainability, where the younger generation is encouraged to play a role in preserving the environment and participating in policies that support social welfare. This article uses a qualitative approach to examine civic awareness among students, as well as how civic education can strengthen the character of the younger generation as responsible citizens who care about social and political challenges in the digital era.