Need For Comprehensive Policy Research Articles

Use of Artificial Intelligence in the Banking Industry: A Case Study of Pakistan

This study investigates the adoption and impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Pakistan’s banking sector, with a focus on Habib Bank Limited (HBL), Faysal Bank, and Bank Alfalah. The objective is to understand the extent to which AI technologies have transformed core activities within customer service, operations, fraud detection, and risk management in these banks. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews with ten respondents, selected based on their experience with AI implementation. This qualitative methodology allows for in-depth insights into the functionality and challenges associated with AI in banking. Results reveal that AI has notably improved operational efficiency by streamlining risk management and enabling real-time fraud detection. Additionally, AI-driven chatbots and virtual assistants have enhanced customer experiences by offering faster and more personalized services. Despite these benefits, the study identifies significant challenges, particularly regarding data privacy and regulatory compliance, as well as the need for human resources to adapt to AI-enabled tools. Key pressures in the industry include building capabilities to work alongside AI while addressing concerns over automation. To maximize the advantages of AI, the study emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies that balance technological adoption with ethical considerations, data security, and staff training. Strategic planning in Pakistan’s banking sector will be crucial to harnessing AI’s potential while managing its risks.

Unsettled Ground, Unsettled Lives: The Ontological (In)securities of Syrian Refugees in the Shadow of Turkey’s 2023 Earthquake

Executive Summary This paper examines the ontological insecurities faced by Syrian refugees in Turkey following the 2023 earthquakes. Ontological security refers to the security of being, encompassing a sense of confidence in the apparent stability of the world (p. 746). This concept is intimately linked to managing existential uncertainties and maintaining routines to ensure a sense of security. Previous literature indicates that uncertain situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, including earthquakes and floods, exacerbate ontological insecurities. Additionally, these challenging situations often intensify anti-refugee attitudes. Historically, the impact of earthquakes on individuals has been considered predominantly within the realm of physical security, a perspective critiqued by critical security scholars. In alignment with this critique, our study adopts an ontological security perspective to analyze the situations of Syrian refugees in Turkey post-earthquake, addressing a gap in the literature which has previously focused on the physical security aspects of Syrian refugees. While numerous studies documented the relationship between security and migration, fewer explored the nexus between ontological (in)security and migration in the context of natural hazards. This study addresses this gap by investigating how the recent earthquake heightened existing insecurities among Syrian refugees. Drawing on ontological security studies, narrative analysis, and data from in-depth, semi-structured interviews, the study finds that the vulnerabilities of Syrian refugees were intensified by the earthquake. Their perceptions of home, society, and future shifted significantly, decreasing their ontological security and exacerbating existing inequalities. Our findings suggest that the February 2023 earthquake posed threats to refugees beyond physical inadequacies, exacerbating the ontological insecurities of Syrian refugees in Turkey. This compounded their displacement-related existential anxieties and undermined their sense of stability and belonging by altering their perceptions of home, trust in public authorities, and their future. The earthquake significantly disrupted Syrian refugees’ understanding of “home” by compounding their sense of loss and insecurity, thereby challenging their ability to establish a stable, predictable environment essential for ontological security in Turkey. Furthermore, the earthquake altered Syrian refugees’ trust in public authorities. The government’s handling of the post-earthquake process significantly impacted refugees’ access to essential resources, with discriminatory practices and mobility restrictions amplifying their vulnerability and precariousness. The state’s crisis management capabilities and emphasis on border security, aimed at ensuring control, inadvertently increased refugees’ precariousness regarding their identity and future, leading to a loss of trust in public authorities. In addition to these challenges, the earthquake also changed Syrian refugees’ perception of their future in Turkey, causing them to question their safety and sense of belonging in the host society. Existing challenges faced by refugees were exacerbated by the earthquake and compounded by societal exclusion, further shattering their sense of stability and predictability. Post-earthquake, language barriers and stereotypes intensified, leading to increased discrimination and a reliance on informal survival networks, further diminishing their trust in the future. This heightened ontological insecurity, compounded by economic and social barriers, deepened divisions and made the refugees feel perpetually out of place, undermining their trust in Turkish institutions and society. Our suggestions and policy recommendations underscore the need for comprehensive policies that address both the physical and psychological dimensions of refugee well-being with reference to concrete policy designs in a post-disaster process. • To build trust in the post-disaster process for refugees, the government should ensure that central and local authorities distribute survival resources equally and transparently. • Clear communication channels must be implemented to keep affected communities informed about aid processes. • To address societal exclusion and improve refugees’ future outlook, the government should offer language training and translation services to help refugees navigate post-disaster process. • Providing critical information in multiple languages will ensure all community members are informed and can access aid. • Fostering community integration initiatives and supporting NGOs working specifically with refugees will promote interaction between refugees and host communities, building social cohesion. • Recognizing the importance of informal networks and incorporating them into formal aid structures, as well as supporting community-based organizations (particularly NGOs) that provide aid and support to refugees, is also essential.

A Thematic Exploration of Gender Inequality in the Gujjar Community of Kotranka Tehsil, Rajouri District

The study looks into the gender disparities that exist among the Gujjar clan in Kotranka Tehsil, Rajouri District in Jammu and Kashmir. It investigates the socio-cultural and economic constraints that women confront in their communities, examining how traditional norms influence their autonomy, involvement, and access to resources. Data from 35 respondents were acquired using a descriptive study method, with structured interviews and questionnaires. The research indicates considerable limitations on women's daily lives, particularly in decision-making, mobility, and educational prospects. The findings show that male dominance prevails in financial and family decisions, but social conventions continue to limit women's roles. While some respondents acknowledge a shift toward more gender-equitable practices, traditional gender norms are nonetheless deeply established, restricting women's potential and increasing dependency. Despite government efforts and changing societal perceptions, Gujjar women in Kotranka Tehsil continue to encounter obstacles as a result of established socio-cultural expectations. The study emphasizes the crucial need for comprehensive policies and community-based programs to achieve gender equality and empower women in the Gujjar tribe.

An Investigation of Renewable Energy Solutions for Off-Grid Sustainable Housing in Rural Nigeria

This study examines the adoption of renewable energy solutions for off-grid sustainable housing in rural Nigeria, focusing on the types of technologies implemented, their impact on living standards, and the factors influencing adoption. A mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative survey data from 340 households with qualitative interviews and case studies, reveals that solar photovoltaic (PV) systems are the most widely adopted renewable energy technology, significantly enhancing health outcomes, economic activities, and educational opportunities. Multivariate regression analysis identifies income, education level, and awareness as key predictors of renewable energy adoption, with coefficients of 0.345, 0.267, and 0.453, respectively, suggesting that higher income, education levels, and awareness substantially increase the likelihood of adopting renewable energy solutions. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) illustrates that awareness mediates the impact of income and education on adoption, which, in turn, contributes to improved living standards. The study underscores the need for comprehensive policies, community engagement, capacity building, financial support, and effective monitoring and evaluation frameworks to encourage renewable energy adoption in rural Nigeria. These findings highlight the multifaceted benefits of renewable energy, including improved health, economic growth, and educational outcomes, while suggesting that addressing identified barriers can enhance the effectiveness and scalability of renewable energy initiatives.

Collaborative governance of an integrated system for collecting contributions for social health insurance, pension, and taxes from the informal sector: a synthesis of stakeholder perspectives

BackgroundMany low-and middle-income countries have adopted social health insurance schemes. However, the collection of contributions from the large informal sector of these economies poses a significant challenge. Employing an integrated system of contribution collection from all relevant institutions may be cost-effective. We used the integrative framework for collaborative governance, to explore and explain factors that may shape the governance of an integrated system for collecting contributions for social health insurance, pension, and taxes from the informal sector in Zambia.MethodsWe undertook a qualitative case study involving 25 key informants drawn from government ministries and institutions, cooperating partners, non-governmental organizations, and association representatives in the informal sector. Data were analyzed thematically using Emerson’s integrative framework for collaborative governance.ResultsThe main drivers of collaboration included a need for comprehensive policies and legislation to oversee the integrated system for contribution collection, prevent redundancy, reduce costs, and enhance organizational effectiveness. However, challenges such as leadership issues and coordination complexities were noted. Factors affecting principled engagement within the collaborative regime consisted of communication gaps, organizational structure disparities, and the adoption of appropriate strategies to engage the informal sector. Additionally, factors influencing shared motivation involved concerns about power dynamics, self-interests, trust issues, corruption, and a lack of common understanding of the informal sector.ConclusionThis study sheds light on a multitude of factors that may shape collaborative governance of an integrated system for contribution collection for social health insurance, pension, and taxes from the informal sector, providing valuable insights for policymakers and implementers alike. Expanding social health insurance coverage to the large but often excluded informal sector will require leveraging factors identified in this study to enhance collaboration with pension and tax subsystems.

Migration as an Adaptation Measure to Achieve Resilient Lifestyle in the Face of Climate-Induced Drought: Insight from the Thar Desert in Pakistan

A significant number of people, either seasonally or permanently, migrate from the Thar Desert in Pakistan each year due to droughts caused by climate change. This study aims to investigate the determinants and consequences of these migration decisions, examine the effectiveness of migration as a climate adaptation strategy, and identify challenges in adapting to these changes. Data were gathered from 400 migrated households in the Mithi sub-district. A mixed-method approach was used, combining qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings revealed that threats to the standard of living, including lack of food and clean drinking water, unemployment, and limited educational and medical opportunities, were the primary reasons for permanent and temporary migration from ancestral locations. Migration significantly impacted the origin and destination regions, with positive or negative effects. Specifically, migrants identified various consequences for both the origin and destination communities, including population decline (63%), changes in age structure, increased demand for housing, economic fluctuations (73%), alterations in healthcare services, and increased psychological stress (77%). The study also revealed that individuals who migrated from the Thar Desert experienced improved conditions compared to their previous location, such as diversification of income sources, increased job stability, access to clean water and food, reduced health risks, and overall improvements in their living conditions. However, the destination communities faced significant challenges due to widespread resource depletion and environmental deterioration. Migrants encountered barriers to developing resilient livelihoods in destination areas, including lack of proper knowledge and information, institutional and government issues, environmental and technological challenges, and social and cultural issues. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policies and sustainable solutions to address the root causes of migration and support the resilience of vulnerable populations.

Age and expertise: The effects of ageism on professional recognition for senior nurses

This study explores the dual challenges of ageism and professional recognition faced by senior nurses in healthcare settings. Utilizing a phenomenological approach, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 registered nurses aged 50 and older in Abha City, Saudi Arabia. The analysis revealed four key themes: experiences of ageism, its impact on professional roles, discrimination and stigmatization, and the need for organizational support. Findings indicate that age-related biases lead to significant professional marginalization, reduced job satisfaction, and emotional distress among senior nurses. The study highlights the critical need for comprehensive policies, organizational support, and cultural changes to address ageism and recognize the valuable contributions of senior nurses. Promoting an inclusive work environment and equitable professional development opportunities can enhance the overall quality of care and job satisfaction for older nurses.

Assessment of seasonal variations in soil heavy metal concentrations and potential health risks in Gujarat, India.

This study investigates the prevalence, distribution, and ecological consequences of 21 heavy metals (Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Sr, and Zn) in the soils between the Mahi and Dhadhar rivers in Gujarat, India. It aims to assess the seasonal variations in soil contamination and the potential human health risk associated with the heavy metal exposure through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact pathways. Soil samples were collected from 57 sites across three distinct seasons and analyzed using indices such as the geo-accumulation index, contamination factor, pollution load index, ecological risk factor, and global potential ecological risk. Human health risks were also evaluated for carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects. The findings reveal significant soil contamination, especially during the Monsoon and Post-Monsoon seasons, with heavy metals like Ag, Cd, Cr, Cu, Co, Ni, and Pb posing considerable ecological threats. Cr and Ni were identified as presenting the highest carcinogenic risks, while Fe and Cr posed major non-carcinogenic challenges. Seasonal variations significantly influenced heavy metal concentrations and distribution patterns. The study highlights the urgent need for comprehensive policies and sustainable practices to mitigate soil contamination and protect environmental health. It emphasizes the critical role of human activities, such as industrial, agricultural, and mining operations, in soil degradation and calls for increased community awareness and action to address these challenges.

Unraveling the nutrition and health situation of adults in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA) and non-GIDA in the Philippines: A comparative study.

Background: Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) are communities physically and socioeconomically separated from mainstream society (non-GIDA) and lack comprehensive nutrition and health assessments. Aim: This study aimed to assess the nutritional and health status and determine the factors associated with chronic energy deficiency (CED) and overweight/obesity among adults, 20-59 years old, residing in GIDA and non-GIDA. Methods: Data of the 20,381 adults collected in the Expanded National Nutrition Survey were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the predictors of CED and overweight/obesity. Results: Chronic energy deficiency and current smoking were significantly higher in GIDA, while overweight/obesity, alcohol consumption, elevated blood pressure, and insufficient physical activity were higher in non-GIDA (p < 0.001). Higher odds of CED was associated with food insecurity (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.5, p < 0.001; AOR: 1.3, p < 0.001) and current smoking (AOR: 1.4, p = 0.001; AOR: 1.3, p < 0.001) in both GIDA and non-GIDA while poor wealth (AOR: 1.5, p < 0.001) only in non-GIDA. Higher odds of overweight/obesity was associated with higher age ≥30 years (AOR: 2.1, p < 0.001; AOR: 1.9, p < 0.001), being female (AOR: 1.7, p < 0.001; AOR: 1.3, p < 0.001), with grade level completed (AOR: 1.7, p = 0.004; AOR: 1.2, p = 0.038), urban residence (AOR: 1.2, p = 0.035; AOR: 1.3, p < 0.001), hypertension (AOR: 2.4, p < 0.001; AOR: 2.3, p < 0.001), and insufficient physical activity (AOR: 1.1, p = 0.020; AOR: 1.1, p = 0.027) in both GIDA and non-GIDA. Conclusions: Malnutrition affects GIDA in almost the same magnitude. The double burden of malnutrition and health inequity in GIDA underscores the greater need for comprehensive policies and stronger programs directed toward underserved areas.

The factors related to depressive symptoms in urban older adults in South Korea: a study based on the Seoul Aging Survey

PurposeThis study aims to comprehensively examine the determinants of depression among urban older adults in Seoul, utilizing the social-ecological model to address multifaceted influences.MethodsA comprehensive analysis was conducted using data from the 2022 Seoul Aging Survey, which surveyed 2,914 individuals aged 65 and above. A multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors contributing to depressive symptoms, including socio-demographic characteristics, health behaviors and status, research accessibility, social support, and environmental influences.ResultsThis study revealed that poor subjective health (OR = 1.47) and the presence of multiple chronic diseases (OR = 1.59) significantly increased the risk of depressive symptoms among urban older adults. From a social support standpoint, living alone was associated with a higher risk of depression (OR = 1.66), low food security (OR = 2.56), and low digital competency (OR = 2.70) were all significant predictors of depressive symptoms. Additionally, a lack of engagement with cultural facilities (OR = 2.15) was identified as a critical environmental factor contributing to depression.ConclusionsThe findings underscore the need for comprehensive policy and practical interventions aimed at preventing chronic disease, enhancing social support networks, improving digital literacy, ensuring food security, and expanding access to healthcare and cultural facilities. Such measures are crucial in mitigating depression among urban older adults, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.

Ambient PM2.5 components might exacerbate bone loss among middle-aged and elderly women: evidence from a population-based cross-sectional study.

Previous studies have primarily focused on the links between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and bone health among the general population instead of PM2.5 components and the specific population. We aimed to investigate the associations between PM2.5 components and bone health among middle-aged and elderly women. A total of 748 middle-aged and elderly women were randomly sampled from 32 streets/villages in Hubei Province. The concentrations of ambient PM2.5 and its components were extracted across various residential areas from the Tracking Air Pollution in China (TAP) dataset. Bone mineral density measurements were obtained from dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans of study participants. Multivariable logistic and linear models were employed to assess the relationship between PM2.5 and its components and bone loss. Per interquartile range (IQR) increase in nitrate (NO3-) and ammonium (NH4+) concentrations were associated with 1.65 [95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.13, 2.30] and 1.77 (95% CI: 1.26, 2.49) times higher odds of osteoporosis, respectively. Long-term exposure to sulfate (SO42-), NO3-, and NH4+ was negatively associated with T-scores and bone mineral density in L1-L4 lumbar vertebrae. In addition, the elderly, women who have experienced menarche after the age of 14, and postmenopausal women were more susceptible to the water-soluble inorganic salts of PM2.5. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies addressing air quality, with a specific focus on vulnerable populations such as middle-aged and elderly women. Public health interventions aimed at reducing ambient PM2.5 concentrations and minimizing exposure to its harmful components are crucial in mitigating the adverse impact on skeletal health and improving the overall well-being of communities.

Beyond surface: Unveiling ecological and economic ramifications of microplastic pollution in the oceans.

Every year, the global production of plastic waste reaches a staggering 400 million metric tons (Mt), precipitating adverse consequences for the environment, food safety, and biodiversity as it degrades into microplastics (MPs). The multifaceted nature of MP pollution, coupled with its intricate physiological impacts, underscores the pressing need for comprehensive policies and legislative frameworks. Such measures, alongside advancements in technology, hold promise in averting ecological catastrophe in the oceans. Mandated legislation represents a pivotal step towards restoring oceanic health and securing the well-being of the planet. This work offers an overview of the policy hurdles, legislative initiatives, and prospective strategies for addressing global pollution due to MP. Additionally, this work explores innovative approaches that yield fresh insights into combating plastic pollution across various sectors. Emphasizing the importance of a global plastics treaty, the article underscores its potential to galvanize collaborative efforts in mitigating MP pollution's deleterious effects on marine ecosystems. Successful implementation of such a treaty could revolutionize the plastics economy, steering it towards a circular, less polluting model operating within planetary boundaries. Failure to act decisively risks exacerbating the scourge of MP pollution and its attendant repercussions on both humanity and the environment. Central to this endeavor are the formulation, content, and execution of the treaty itself, which demand careful consideration. While recognizing that a global plastics treaty is not a panacea, it serves as a mechanism for enhancing plastics governance and elevating global ambitions towards achieving zero plastic pollution by 2040. Adopting a life cycle approach to plastic management allows for a nuanced understanding of possible trade-offs between environmental impact and economic growth, guiding the selection of optimal solutions with socio-economic implications in mind. By embracing a comprehensive strategy that integrates legislative measures and technological innovations, we can substantially reduce the influx of marine plastic litter at its sources, safeguarding the oceans for future generations.

Consumption Expenditure Patterns and Food Security Dynamics in Nigeria

Food insecurity remains a critical issue globally, as highlighted by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 2). In 2023, nearly 25 million Nigerians faced food insecurity due to factors like insurgency affecting agricultural activities. This, therefore, worsens the food insecurity in the country. Thus, this study investigates the dynamics between household consumption expenditure patterns and food security in Nigeria over a decade (2010-2019). This was done by analysing four waves of secondary panel data of 4,000 nationally representative households of the Nigeria General Household Survey GHS - Panel collected by the National Bureau of Statistics in four waves over ten years from 2010 to 2019. Analytical tools used were descriptive statistics and the Food Security Index. The results of the consumption patterns of the respondents showed that the majority of the respondents were in the lowest band of per capita total expenditure and sectoral expenditures. The ratio of food secure to food insecure averages around 30% to 70% with a food security (surplus) index of 1.26 and food insecurity (shortfall) index of 0.53. Nigeria was food insecure during the period. The analysis concludes that boosting agricultural productivity, improving infrastructure, and addressing corruption are essential to enhance food security in Nigeria. The government is recommended to prioritize long-term strategies for food production, support vulnerable households, and leverage technological advancements to increase agricultural productivity. This study underscores the need for comprehensive policies to address the multifaceted challenges of food insecurity in Nigeria.

THE IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE ON FOOD SECURITY: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN SOUTHEAST ASIA

This study examines the intricate relationships between foreign direct investment (FDI), gross domestic product (GDP), imports, international trade, and food security in Southeast Asia. Utilizing panel data from 2002 to 2022, the research employs the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) to analyze the dynamic interactions among these variables. The findings indicate that FDI significantly enhances both GDP and food security, highlighting its crucial role in the region's economic development. Conversely, while imports have a positive effect on GDP, GDP does not significantly influence import levels, suggesting that imports are more driven by external factors. Additionally, international trade positively affects imports but does not have a direct significant impact on food security. These results underscore the importance of fostering FDI and trade while also emphasizing the need for comprehensive policies that bolster domestic food production and economic diversification. The study concludes with recommendations for policy measures to create a more resilient and sustainable economic environment in Southeast Asia

Tackling sustainable development challenges: A fuzzy set examination of textile industry 4.0 and green supply chain barriers

AbstractCircular supply chains transform linear manufacturing into closed‐loop systems that promote Industry 4.0 and sustainable development. However, the barriers to China's textile sector have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, this study analyzes the contextual links between identified barriers and their prioritization for effective circular economy and green product development. This study enlisted 75 specialists to evaluate various obstacles utilizing the q‐ROFS approach for comprehensive quantitative analysis. The results revealed the interdependence of barriers and identified major devising from the market, financial, and organizational sides. The significant impact of market barriers on other challenges is shown by high similarity (90%), showing market problems' profound effects. Financial constraints significantly impact organizational and market barriers, stressing the role of economic factors in adoption challenges. Sociological, financial, and market issues are interconnected with organizational barriers, emphasizing the need for an integrated strategy. Finally, the assessments rank market‐related constraints, followed by economic and organizational barriers. Then there are society, the environment, and technological, supply chain, and government barriers faced by the Chinese textile industry. These results emphasize the need for comprehensive policies to overcome market, financial, and organizational barriers and the role of economics and market dynamics in adoption.

The Covid-19 resilience journey of vulnerable young South Africans

Resilience, the ability to adapt well to adversity, is a critical factor in the well-being and success of young individuals. This study explored the multifaceted nature of resilience among South African youth challenged by COVID-related stressors and structural disadvantage. Specifically, this paper reports a follow-up qualitative leg of a sequential mixed-method design. Thirty-eight young adults (average age 24), all of whom reported high risk exposure but low depression symptoms, took part in semi-structured interviews to learn more about their resilience journey. Qualitative content analysis was employed to identify prominent themes. The study’s findings emphasize the dynamic nature of youth resilience, with individuals being buoyed by social network support (especially family); personal agency, structural support, and resource combinations. The qualitative findings contribute to the growing attention to the need for comprehensive policies and programs that recognize and enhance multisystemic sources of support, enabling young individuals to navigate challenges and thrive in their transition into adulthood.

"We want our freedom back, that's our only need": a qualitative study of health and social needs among asylum seekers and undocumented migrants crossing the borders from Belarus to Lithuania.

The influx of undocumented migrants and asylum seekers into Lithuania, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, presents unique public health challenges. This study employs the Social Determinants of Health framework to explore the healthcare and social needs of this vulnerable population. In May 2022, we carried out a qualitative study through semi-structured interviews with asylum seekers across four centers in Lithuania. Employing both purposive and snowball sampling techniques, we selected participants for our investigation. The study comprised 21 interviews-19 conducted in Arabic and 2 in English-with durations ranging between 20 and 40 min each. We audio-recorded all interviews, transcribed them verbatim, and subsequently performed a thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software. This process of design and analysis strictly followed the principles of thematic analysis as outlined by Braun and Clarke, guaranteeing methodological precision and rigor. 21 interviews revealed critical insights into the healthcare access challenges, mental health issues, and social integration barriers faced by the participants. Key themes included 'Healthcare Needs and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic 'and 'Social needs and Aspirations Amidst Pandemic-Induced Uncertainty '. The findings highlight the multifaceted healthcare and social needs of asylum seekers, juxtaposed against significant barriers they face. Access to medical services is hindered by long waiting times and financial constraints, especially for specialized care such as dental services. Communication issues during medical appointments due to language barriers and the lack of gender-specific healthcare, such as access to gynecological services, further exacerbate the challenges. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic introduces hurdles such as limited testing, isolation measures, language-specific information barriers, and insufficient social distancing practices. Mental health has emerged as a critical concern, with asylum seekers reporting significant stress and emotional exhaustion due to uncertainty and restrictive living conditions. Social needs extend to delayed asylum application processes, inconsistent language education opportunities, inadequate clothing, and nutrition that lacks cultural sensitivity, and living conditions characterized by overcrowding and insufficient facilities. The restricted freedom of movement within asylum seeking centres severely impacts their psychological well-being, underscoring a deep longing for autonomy and a better life despite the myriad of challenges faced. The study illustrates the complex interplay between migration, health, and social factors in the context of a global pandemic. It highlights the need for culturally sensitive healthcare services, mental health support, and structured language education programs. Offering educational avenues alongside language courses for children and adults is essential for fostering social inclusion and securing economic prosperity. Addressing the challenge of language barriers is of utmost importance, as these barriers significantly impede undocumented migrants' and asylum seekers employment opportunities and their access to crucial services. The findings emphasized immigration as a health determinant and underscored the importance of inclusive health policies and advocacy for undocumented migrants and asylum seekers' rights and needs. There is an urgent need for comprehensive policies and practices that are grounded in the principles of equity, compassion, and human rights. Additionally, advocating for practice adaptations that are culturally sensitive, linguistically inclusive, and responsive to the unique challenges faced by undocumented migrants and asylum seekers. As global migration continues to rise, these findings are crucial for informing public health strategies and social services that cater to the diverse needs of this vulnerable population.

The role of related variety and exporting on a firm’s labour productivity in pollution-intensive industries in China

ABSTRACT This study investigates the influence of regional industrial variety and export activities on labour productivity in China’s pollution-intensive manufacturing sectors from 2003 to 2009. Analysing data from 345,654 firms, we discover that regional related variety significantly boosts labour productivity. Moreover, this study reveals that firms with a higher export ratio experience an amplified benefit from the related variety on labour productivity. Our findings suggest the need for comprehensive policies that balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, emphasizing the nuanced role of industrial variety and global market integration in shaping productive efficiency.

Comprehensive Assessment of Pharmaceutical Waste Disposal Practices in Ishaka-Bushenyi Municipality: Implications for Public Health and Environmental Sustainability

Proper management of pharmaceutical waste is crucial for safeguarding public health and the environment. This study aimed to comprehensively assess pharmaceutical waste management practices in hospitals, pharmacies, and households within Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality, Uganda. The study employed a qualitative case study design, gathering data through observations, interviews, and questionnaires administered to five pharmacies, two hospitals, and 100 households. The results revealed that the mean amount of pharmaceutical waste generated by pharmacies and hospitals in Ishaka was 40.5 kg ± 32.39 kg per month, of which 26.83 kg ± 29.10 kg were disposed of safely. However, 60% of the waste was categorized as hazardous. The study found that while most facilities used labeled or color-coded containers for waste segregation, the practice of segregation was inconsistent, with 71.43% of the facilities not segregating their waste. Incineration (42.86%) and dilution followed by flushing in protected soak pits (42.86%) were the primary disposal methods employed by the facilities. Concerningly, only 4% of households returned unused or expired medications to pharmacies, with the majority disposing of them in dustbins (46%) or flushing them down toilets (41%). The findings also highlighted gaps in awareness and training, with 50% of pharmacy staff not receiving any training on proper pharmaceutical waste disposal, and only 14.29% of the facilities having established waste management guidelines. These deficiencies in knowledge and practices contribute to the suboptimal management of pharmaceutical waste, posing significant risks to public health and the environment. The study underscores the urgent need for comprehensive policies, targeted training programs, and community-based initiatives to enhance pharmaceutical waste management practices in Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality and similar settings. Addressing these challenges is crucial for mitigating the adverse impacts of improper pharmaceutical waste disposal and promoting sustainable healthcare waste management. Keywords: Pharmaceutical waste, Waste management, Disposal practices, Awareness, Hazardous waste.

The Revolution in the Tourism Landscape in Sylhet, Bangladesh

This research delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the tourist geographies of the Sylhet region in Bangladesh, a pivotal area for the country's economic growth and development. Through qualitative analysis, including interviews and secondary data, the study reveals the severe consequences of the pandemic on various aspects of the tourism industry, such as job losses, economic downturns, and disruptions to businesses. The findings underscore the significant challenges faced by both formal and informal stakeholders in Sylhet's tourism sector, highlighting the need for comprehensive policies and strategies to mitigate the pandemic's effects and foster sustainable tourism recovery. Despite the setbacks, the study identifies opportunities for revitalizing Sylhet's tourism landscapes through concerted efforts in infrastructure development, service enhancement, and stakeholder collaboration, ultimately advocating for a resilient approach to navigating the complexities of the post-pandemic tourism landscape.