Policy Objectives Research Articles

From petroleum to power sources: Big Oil and the technopolitics of energy conversion

ABSTRACT This paper explores spillover into advanced energy conversion technologies as an oil industry response to US energy and environmental policies from the last third of the twentieth century. These policies initiated the ‘quasi-planned’ renovation of energy infrastructure through an uncoordinated mixture of regulation and innovation/industrial stimulus intended to develop all forms of primary energy and the technologies that could efficiently and cleanly convert that energy. Influenced by this sweeping public policy objective as well as the global consumer electronic industry’s increasing demand for petroleum-derived inputs from the late 1970s, Western oil interests doing business in the US engaged the technoscience of advanced energy conversion. Big Oil researched, developed, and in some cases manufactured materials and components associated with power sources including fuel cells, galvanic batteries, and photovoltaic arrays in projects that illustrate the affinities and antagonisms between enterprises of naturally stored primary energy, energy conversion, and flows and carriers of energy. Case studies of Big Oil’s involvement with these technologies illustrate how public policies supporting all-of-the-above energy and energy conversion limited the extent of oil spillover into advanced energy conversion systems and complicated the transition to a fossil fuel-free future.

Health care provider payment schemes in Central and Eastern European countries

Abstract Background Health care provider payment schemes are key elements of the health care system that influence providers behavior, quality of care, and efficient use of resources. In recent decades, Central and Eastern European (CEE) counties have implemented various reforms that have changed payments methods and other elements of the purchasing process. The aim of the study was to provide an overview of the current provider payment schemes within the public health system in selected CEE countries and identify the main directions of their reforming. Methods Based on existing literature, a theoretical framework and data collection form were first developed. Next, desk research was conducted to collect data on provider payment methods and other elements of the purchasing process in primary care, outpatient specialized care, hospital care, and long-term care. The collected information was verified and supplemented though consultations with national experts. Nine countries were included: Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary, Poland, and Romania. The study was conducted in 2023. Results Capitation, fee-for-service, and case-based payments are the most commonly used methods in the analyzed countries. The countries are increasingly using blended payment methods. Primary and hospital care have the most diverse payment method mix and have experienced the most substantial changes in their payment schemes since 2010. The most common changes focused on modifying existing methods (detailing payment categories, changing the principles of tariff valuation), and introducing additional methods to pay for specific services or performance (fee-for-service, bonus payments). Conclusions CEE countries are following similar directions in reforming provider payment systems, with the goal of strengthening primary health care, shifting emphasis from inpatient to outpatient care and improving cooperation between health care providers. Key messages • CEE countries largely use output-based methods to pay for health care services. • Provider payment systems are becoming more blended as countries look for the most effective payment method mix to meet policy objectives.

Monitoring the level of health and inequality over time using the Population Health Performance Index

Abstract Background The Population Health Performance Index (PHPI) is a composite measure that combines average health outcomes and their distribution within a population, thereby allowing for a comprehensive assessment of population health and inequality. The aim of this study is to examine the extent to which the PHPI adds value to monitoring of health and inequality over time in comparison to absolute and relative inequality. Methods Data from the WHO Equity Monitor database on under-5 mortality disaggregated by wealth quintiles for Nepal, Ethiopia, Peru, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe were analysed using different years between 1994 and 2020. Descriptive comparative statistics were employed to assess trends in the PHPI and conventional pairwise measures of absolute and relative inequalities, with consideration of different weights for inequality aversion. Results PHPI trends correspond to the trend of absolute inequality in all five countries, although they exhibit less volatility over time. Relative inequality follows the trend of the PHPI in only two of the five countries (Ethiopia and Zimbabwe), reflecting the methodology utilised for the PHPI. PHPI scores vary based on different inequality aversion weights, highlighting the sensitivity of the index to methodological adjustments. Conclusions The PHPI demonstrates notable convergence of trends with conventional methods, thereby substantiating its utility as a comprehensive tool for the simultaneous measurement of health and inequality. As it is able to consider both absolute and relative inequality within its own calculations, the PHPI allows for independent analysis of its two key components. The PHPI facilitates a more nuanced understanding of population health and may be more easily understood by policymakers and other stakeholders. As it does not address the underlying causes of changes in health inequalities, further research is necessary to supplement monitoring activities. Key messages • PHPI is a valuable tool for health and inequality monitoring by integrating both average health and disparity in a single index, facilitating communication of trends over time. • The dual focus complements conventional methods with its multidimensionality and may enable stakeholders to assess health and inequalities in alignment with broader health policy objectives.

Evaluation of The Effectiveness of Large-Scale Social Restriction Policies In Handling The Covid-19 Pandemic In West Java, Indonesia

The policy to stop the transmission of the Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic in Indonesia has been established and is a reference for all regions in Indonesia, including West Java. This study aims to find out and describe the effectiveness of the PSBB policy in West Java, which is measured through the World Health Organization (WHO) standard criteria. This study used a qualitative descriptive method. Data collection techniques were carried out using the documentation study technique and by conducting a forum group discussion. Data analysis using an interactive model adopted from Miles. The effectiveness of PSBB in West Java in the first period of 14 days has not been reached, thus requiring an additional period of validity to increase the level of success in achieving policy objectives. The epidemiology has been fluctuating on May 25, the Rt number was 1.48 then June 2-12 has shown a better number, which is 0.68. The effectiveness of the PSBB policy in West Java, which is measured through the World Health Organization (WHO) standard criteria has not been reached based on fluctuating epidemiology data, however there has been an increase in the occupancy of health facilities and laboratory testing capacity as part of the health care system.

Analysis the Deficiency of China's Maternity Leave System Between China and the United States

Abstract: This paper compares the welfare system of China and the United States, the welfare content for both genders, aims of policy and policy effects. The comparison results show that the laws and regulations of China's maternity leave system are more unified. Second, there is a significant lack of parental leave for parents to support and care for their children. Third, the incidence of postpartum depression among Chinese women is increasing from year to year and is more common than that in the United States. Among the four comparative indicators, the two countries only show a more obvious consistency in the legislative objectives of the birth policy. This paper suggests that China should draw lessons from the unpaid maternity leave of the US federal government and appropriately improve the welfare level while maintaining the paid maternity leave policy. The maternity leave time of female workers should be extended. Male workers should enjoy father leave. In addition, new future government policies will need to include a mandatory requirement, requiring that parents have to exercise their respective powers to take parental leave and family leave. If the holiday cannot be used up before employees return to work, the surplus ought to be left for future use. In this way, employment equity and gender equality will be improved to a great extent.

ВОПРОСЫ СОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАНИЯ НОРМАТИВНОГО РЕГУЛИРОВАНИЯ В СФЕРЕ ОПЛАТЫ ТРУДА (ДЕНЕЖНОГО ДОВОЛЬСТВИЯ) СПАСАТЕЛЕЙ И ПОЖАРНЫХ, РАБОТАЮЩИХ (ПРОХОДЯЩИХ СЛУЖБУ) В АРКТИЧЕСКОЙ ЗОНЕ РОССИЙСКОЙ ФЕДЕРАЦИИ: ПРАВОТВОРЧЕСКИЙ АСПЕКТ

The article considers legal incentives in the field of remuneration (monetary allowance) of firefighters and rescuers of the Arctic group of EMERCOM of Russia, in order to identify the existing problems of regulation. The study systematized the guarantees and compensations provided for by the legislation in the designated area, conducted a comparative analysis of the legal regulation of the relations under consideration for various categories of employees (employees) of EMERCOM of Russia in terms of modern goals and objectives of state policy in the Arctic, taking into account differentiation by territories of the Arctic zone. Some differences have been established in the procedure for applying a percentage supplement to the wages (monetary allowance) of rescuers and firefighters, which are not due to the peculiarities of the legal status of these entities, but are a consequence of the fragmentation of legal regulation. A number of proposals have been formulated to improve the applicable legislation.

Achieving Sustainability in the Management of Natural Resources Given to a Concession

The sustainable management of resources is part of the strategic objectives of the European economic policy for the transition from a linear to a circular economy. One of its aspects, at the national level, is the protection of deposits of underground wealth and mineral waters on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria from depletion and improper exploitation. The purpose of the article is to present the main requirements for the users of this type of natural resources when granting concessions by the state, in order to determine whether there are mechanisms for achieving sustainability in their management. By studying the current legislation and analyzing data from the National Concession Register, the most frequently used practices for sustainable management of these valuable resources used for economic purposes are presented: establishment of environmental requirements; limiting the rights to extract and exploit the deposits to predetermined limits and volumes, for a certain period of time; requirements for preparation of work plans, reports and reporting documentation; delivery of the concession object in a condition suitable for subsequent operation; requirements for reclamation, enhanced administrative control, which covers the entire project cycle of realization of investments in the extraction of this type of resources, etc. As a result of the study, the article formulates recommendations for expanding the sustainability requirements and strengthening the control in their application. This will ensure a wider time horizon for their economic exploitation and will contribute to achieving one of the EU’s fundamental goals: to ensure suitable conditions for economic growth for future generations without resource dependence.

The Soviet-Japanese Basic Convention of 1925 (the Historic and Legal Aspect)

The paper is devoted to the problem of international cooperation between the Soviet Union and Japan in the 1920s. The author uses the method of historical and legal analysis to examine the convention on the basic principles of relations between the USSR and Japan that was adopted in 1925. The Convention was one of the first significant historical instruments of the 20th century within the framework of the development of the Russian Far Eastern political program. The author examines the document from a historical and legal point of view in order to reveal its legal component and deepen the understanding of its diplomatic significance and influence on the development of international relations in the first half of the 20th century. The paper presents historical resources on the key reasons and conditions that led to the signing of the Convention. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the Convention’s content, basic principles of cooperation enshrined in the Convention that laid the foundations for the regulation of relations between the Soviet Union and Japan. The author also examines the consequences the Convention had for both countries both in the short and long run. The study presents the author’s standing regarding the contradictory nature of the Convention of 1925 expressed in realization by the parties of their foreign policy objectives through unequal concessions, particularly for the USSR. The contribution of the Convention to the formation of political and economic relations between Japan and the USSR in the following years is emphasized.

Comparing the success and failure of the Murray–Darling Basin Plan's water recovery programs

AbstractThe Murray–Darling Basin (MDB) Plan is held up by some as an exemplar for world‐leading water policy, whilst others have called it a failure. Total proposed recovery was to return 3200 GL of consumptive (e.g. namely irrigation) water use to non‐consumptive (e.g. environmental) use in the MDB, making it one of the largest planned reallocations of water resources in the world. As of June 2023, over AUD$13 billion was committed financially from the Australian government to Basin water reform, with AUD$7.7 billion spent to date on water recovery programs. The implementation of the Plan has been mired in controversy, and it missed its first water recovery targets that had been set for 2024, requiring substantial legislation amendments. This study provides a qualitative policy overview comparison of the success and failure of the two main water recovery programs implemented—buyback of water entitlements from willing sellers and subsidising irrigation infrastructure (on and off‐farm) projects. It concludes that contrary to the popular view held by many, the buyback water recovery program has been a success—achieving the majority of the water recovered to date, at the least cost, with the least negative externalities—in comparison to infrastructure programs.Points for practitioners Assessing success and failure of MDB water recovery programs requires establishing effectiveness, efficiency and equity criteria. Greater work on the benefits of water reallocation downstream and cultural water is needed. A comparison of MDB buyback water recovery programs with irrigation infrastructure programs found higher net benefits for buyback programs. Use first‐best policy to address each water policy objective, not one policy aimed at addressing multi‐objectives. Overall, the Plan.s overall success is still to be determined, given the difficulty in judging environmental outcome success that is intrinsically linked with other external factors.

Selectivity as discrimination: lessons from the case law on fiscal measures for identifying State aid

Abstract Article 107(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union was originally designed to regulate the grant of subsidies by Member States, but it has been applied increasingly in recent years to regulate tax measures. Attempts to apply the State aid rules in this way have been met with controversy as they have been applied in unpredictable ways that have introduced significant changes to the existing tests in the case law for identifying State aid. These changes include a broader interpretation of the concept of selectivity, one of the criteria used to identify aid, which has been reoriented around the discrimination standard, whereby a measure is selective if it differentiates between categories of undertakings without being capable of justification by some legitimate public policy objective. Most controversially, this has facilitated the enforcement of the State aid rules against a wider range of State interventions. This article argues that the discrimination standard represents the most plausible and effective way of understanding selectivity among the alternative tests which have been proposed in the case law and academic literature. However, it goes on to identify a significant deficiency in the discrimination standard in the manner in which it is currently applied by the Union courts. The test inevitably requires certain value judgments to be made, but these are not made explicit by the existing case law. This article then proceeds to give further reflections on options for the refinement of the framework for assessing selectivity based on the discrimination standard and the existing logic of the case law and the objectives of the State aid control regime, which indicates how principled and coherent boundaries to the notion of State aid might be assessed in an individual case.

Enhancing strategic public procurement: a public service logic perspective

ABSTRACT This paper introduces a special issue focused on strategic public procurement from a public management perspective. It articulates the goals, key dimensions, and challenges inherent in strategic public procurement while contextualizing the articles featured in this issue. To advance the field and strengthen the integration of public procurement and public management literature, we propose adopting the Public Service Logic (PSL) framework. PSL provides a comprehensive approach to reframe public procurement, shifting it from a focus on legal compliance and cost-efficiency to achieving broader strategic policy objectives, including fostering innovation, environmental sustainability, security, and social inclusion.

Data Protection Considerations in Competition Law Assessments: A Qualitative Document Analysis of EU Decision Texts

Abstract Personal data are both protected by a fundamental right and serves as a source of market power. As such, a complex interplay between data protection and competition law arises, sparking debate among policymakers and scholars on whether to incorporate data protection considerations (DPCs) in competition law assessments. Proponents argue that competition cases involving such an interplay require a normative contribution from data protection law, while opponents emphasize the practical challenges of considering data protection as a non-economic public policy objective. We identify nine ways in which data protection might ultimately surface in competition law assessments, categorized into five areas: (i) competition enforcement actions, (ii) existing legal and regulatory framework, (iii) personal data collection, (iv) exclusionary abuses, and (v) alleviation of competition concerns. Using a multiple-step approach for qualitative document analysis, we explore how these considerations have surfaced in the European Commission’s decisional practice through a dataset of 2.041 EU competition decision texts based on articles 101 TFEU and 102 TFEU and the EU Merger Regulation. We identify 53 decisions where DPCs have surfaced, especially in the information and communication industry, where they are more frequently subjected to commitments. In line with the evolving literature, we observe an increasingly integrationist trend as these considerations surface more frequently, particularly since the adoption of the General Data Protection Regulation in 2016 and the Digital Markets Act proposal in 2020. We also find a pattern where data protection provisions are included in commitments as a ‘tick-the-box’ exercise. Several influential alleviations of competition concerns suggest that the Commission is more comfortable using data protection to approve transactions unconditionally rather than as a substantive argument for commitments. We conclude by making a case for a more collaborative approach based on the European Court of Justice’s recent Meta Platforms (2023) judgment. Data protection should be considered in competition law assessments if its normative contribution is required. Such a stance would simply align with the internal logic of competition law without unlawfully expanding its material scope.

Investigating aquaculture farmers' preferences for multiobjective green production schemes: A discrete choice experiment in China

In recent years, the objectives of green agricultural development have increasingly diversified, incorporating food safety, pollution control, and resource conservation. This diversification has further heightened the potential for conflicts between policy objectives and the individual interests of farmers. Understanding farmer trade-offs with respect to multiobjective green production (MOGP) policies is crucial for the comprehensive implementation of agricultural green development policies. The green and healthy aquaculture action (GHAA) encompassing multiple green technology objectives promoted by the Chinese government provides a favorable policy context. On the basis of the policy background of the GHAA, this study utilized the choice experiment method (CEM) to explore the preferences of aquaculture farmers for various green technology objectives and supporting measures. The results indicate that aquaculture farmers are willing to make trade-offs among various green technology objectives with the support of specific measures to transform traditional production methods. Farmers have varying preferences for different green technology objectives. Overall, they tend to prefer implementing compound feed utilization but are averse to implementing aquaculture effluent treatment. In terms of support measures, providing technical guidance is more effective than providing aquaculture insurance in incentivizing farmers to participate in MOGP schemes. Further analysis indicates that there are three latent preference classes, which differ in their preferences for green technology objectives and support measures. Age, gender, aquaculture area, risk preferences, and participation in cooperatives explain the probability of preference class membership.

Would carbon tax policy promote real estate prices?

Real estate plays a pivotal role in carbon emissions. Carbon tax policy is a crucial measure for mitigating enterprises' carbon emissions. However, imposing a carbon tax on productive enterprises in the real estate industry to reduce emissions may increase their production costs, which could easily be passed on to buyers, thus inflating real estate prices and impeding policy effectiveness. To examine the impact and negative consequences of carbon tax policy applied to the real estate industry, we develop a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model encompassing building materials manufacturers, real estate firms, and the environmental regulatory government. Findings indicate that implementing the carbon tax policy significantly reduces carbon emissions in the real estate industry. However, the existence of a price transmission mechanism makes carbon tax policies susceptible to driving up real estate prices. Further welfare analysis shows that increasing carbon tax rates will result in social welfare losses, allowing the government to modify and refine its policy objectives.

Central bank communication in unconventional times: Some evidence from a textual analysis of the National Bank of Poland communication during the COVID-crisis

The article analyses the communication of the National Bank of Poland (NBP) one year after the announcement of the crisis response package adopted after the outbreak of the COVID pandemic. It presents the perspective of a central bank that first entered unconventional monetary ground during the COVID-crisis. The analysis aims to answer the question of what message about monetary policy objectives may have been conveyed in communication with regard to possible interpretations of the response actions by economic agents. Misinterpretations of policy actions at the time, fuelled by the increased attention to inflation, could later contribute to higher inflation persistence. The article presents findings based on the innovative use of MAXQDA Pro 2022 solutions for textual analysis of central bank’s communication. It points to three inconsistencies in the NBP’s communication that could potentially lead to misinterpretation of the NBP’s policy actions in response to the crisis and thus affect the formation of expectations.

The impact of a low-carbon transport system policy on total factor carbon emission performance: Evidence from 283 cities in China

Reducing carbon emissions from the transport sector is crucial to achieve “carbon neutrality” and is an important component of a low-carbon policy system. In response to the uncertainty of evaluating current low-carbon transport policies, we provide an in-depth analysis and examination of low-carbon transport system (LCTS) policies implemented in China. Using data from 283 Chinese cities between 2006 and 2020, we provide evidence on the policy effects, potential mechanisms, and heterogeneity of LCTS policies on carbon emission performance. Results showed that LCTS policies significantly improved carbon emission performance in pilot regions. The main ways to achieve this policy's objective were to reduce energy consumption in pilot cities, to promote the development of green technologies, and to implement low-carbon transformation of public transport. Moreover, there was heterogeneity in the policy's effects, with the implementation of a LCTS being more effective in eastern and central regions of China and in larger and more compact cities. By analysing the policy's mechanisms and heterogeneity of effects, this article provides a reference for the formulation and selection of low-carbon transport policies.

Coordinated Regional Economic Development: A Study of the Relationship Between Regional Policies and Business Performance

Abstract In the context of the global spread of the Corona Virus Disease 2019, improving enterprise performance, promoting regional economic development, and solving the problem of unbalanced and inadequate regional development are important considerations for regional policy formulation. To understand the relationship between regional policies and corporate performance, this study starts with theories related to regional policies and corporate performance, and proposes two hypotheses. The Western Development, Northeast Revitalization of the Old Industrial Base, and Central Rise Plan are selected as typical representatives of regional policies, and the hypotheses are verified through a double difference model. The results showed that regional policies could improve corporate performance, especially for state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The correlation between the revitalization of the old industrial base in Northeast China and the performance of SOEs was strong, with a correlation coefficient of 0.832. When conducting robustness tests by changing time periods, the correlation values between the performance of SOEs and policies in the three policy implementation areas of revitalizing Northeast China, western development, and central rise were 0.887, 0.764, and 0.652, respectively. Compared to non-SOEs, SOEs had a more significant effect on regional policy improvement. This conclusion was consistent with the empirical results of hypotheses 1 and 2. Based on this foundation, recommendations are offered for the suitability of regional policies to furnish theoretical frameworks for enhancing the regional policy structure and augmenting the precision and inclusivity of regional policy development. The research model is utilized to reveal the important role of regional policies in promoting enterprise performance improvement and promoting regional economic development. It can provide strong evidence support for policy makers. The study offers a scientific theoretical basis and empirical support that assist policymakers in comprehending policy objectives and implementation strategies with greater precision. Therefore, the coordinated advancement of regional economic development is facilitated.

Exploring workplace well-being strategies in Iranian public organizations: a mixed methods study

PurposeTo ensure effective national governance, it is essential to enhance employees' well-being in the workplace. Employees with good mental and physical health are more likely to demonstrate a high level of commitment and engagement in advancing public policy objectives, which serve as instruments of public will. A comprehensive understanding of the various effective strategies to improve workplace well-being is indispensable to formulating human resource management policies within the public sector. Therefore, this study aims to uncover and prioritize the key strategies, programs and actions that contribute to enhancing the workplace well-being of public employees in Iran, drawing from their perspectives and experiences.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a mixed-method study incorporating both qualitative and quantitative phases to recognize and measure these strategies. In the first phase, a qualitative content analysis was carried out based on the perspectives of Iranian public sector employees. In the subsequent phase, a questionnaire derived from the qualitative findings was randomly distributed to 374 employees from 14 public organizations. FindingsWorkplace well-being strategies can be summarized according to the level of their importance as follows: employees' well-being through “inter-personal relationship,” “systems,” “technologies,” “structure,” “culture” and “environment” within the organization. These strategies as six themes divided into 13 categories and 60 subcategories of programs and actions to promote employee well-being in the work setting.Originality/valueThe importance of considering employees' perspectives on workplace well-being is highlighted as a crucial aspect, rather than depending exclusively on managerial viewpoints for the implementation of well-being initiatives. Adopting an integrated and holistic approach to workplace well-being through strategies, programs and actions is another significant contribution of this study.

Digital economy, technological progress, and carbon emissions in Chinese provinces

The 2023 work report of the Chinese government underscores a pivotal transition towards a “dual-control” policy, prioritizing the management of carbon emissions. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the interplay between the digital economy, technological progress, and their impact on the total volume and intensity of carbon emissions across 30 Chinese provinces from 2013 to 2021. Our findings reveal that while the expansion of the digital economy and technological progress contribute to an increase in the total carbon emissions, they also markedly decrease carbon intensity, paving the way for sustainability. Additionally, the research uncovers the positive externalities of the digital economy on carbon emission intensity and the spillover effects of technological progress on both emissions and intensity. The integration of the digital economy in industrial restructuring and the uptake of green technologies are identified as instrumental in mitigating carbon emissions. These insights underscore the potential of policy strategies that leverage the digital economy and technological innovation to meet the “dual-control” policy objectives and foster sustainable development.

Management System for Safety, Health and Environmental Risks at Jasa Contratistas S.A.C.

The investigation focused on establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework for Safety, Health and Environment at JASA Contratistas S.A.C., based on Peruvian legislation, including Law No. 29783 and Supreme Decree No. 023-2021-MINAM. The methodology covered the initial characterization, the definition of environmental policy objectives and the evaluation of occupational risks through IPERC matrices. 122 regulatory items were identified, with 56% meeting the criteria of the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (SGSST). In the environmental field, a 3.38% reduction in deforestation was evident, a 7% increase in solid waste recycling and a 5% improvement in environmental management. After the implementation of the SGSST, occupational risks decreased from 25% to 10.71%, while in the environmental aspect, deforestation reached 2.10%, solid waste treatment increased to 17.5%, and the pro-environmental attitude of employees improved by 20.8%. This system not only improved risk control and reduced accidents, but also increased productivity, ensured regulatory compliance, strengthened competitiveness and encouraged improved environmental behavior among staff.