Government Policy Research Articles

Green Infrastructure Vulnerability and Regional Poverty Reduction: New Sustainable Development Recommendations Based on a Spatial Clustering Approach

ABSTRACT Poverty is always associated with poor green infrastructure. Indonesia has a significant poverty rate and low green infrastructure investment. Therefore, this study uses fuzzy clustering with area weighting (FGWC-HHOP) and 2018 Potential Village Census (PODES) data to analyze green infrastructure risk and poverty in Indonesia. The first cluster, which is mainly urban, is vulnerable, while the second cluster has poor air quality and green infrastructure. Future government policies should encourage sustainable development, especially green infrastructure, to reduce social vulnerability. Consider green infrastructure and social vulnerability when planning urban expansion and poverty alleviation in Indonesia.

‘Life became harder with COVID-19’: exploring the experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic among youth living in eThekwini district, South Africa

BackgroundIn South Africa, pervasive age and gender inequities have been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and public health response. We aimed to explore experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic among youth in eThekwini district, South Africa.MethodsBetween December 2021-May 2022 we explored experiences of the COVID-19 pandemic on youth aged 16–24 residing in eThekwini, South Africa. We collated responses to the open-ended question “Has the COVID-19 pandemic affected you in any other way you want to tell us about?” in an online survey focused on understanding the pandemic’s multi-levelled health and social effects. We used a thematic analysis to summarise the responses.ResultsOf 2,068 respondents, 256 (12.4%, median age = 22, 60.9% women) completed the open-ended survey question (11% in isiZulu). Results were organized into three main themes encompassing (1) COVID-19-related loss, fear, grief, and exacerbated mental and physical health concerns; (2) COVID-19-related intensified hardships, which contributed to financial, employment, food, education, and relationship insecurities for individuals and households; and (3) positive effects of the pandemic response, including the benefits of government policies and silver linings to government restrictions.ConclusionsWe found that South African youth experienced significant grief and multiple losses (e.g., death, income, job, and educational) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Trauma-aware interventions that provide economic and educational opportunities must be included in post-COVID recovery efforts.

Optimization of Corporate Social Responsibility and Synergy with Government Policies in Overcoming Poverty

The research aims to examine the optimization of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and synergy with government policies in overcoming poverty in to realize justice. CSR is a form of accountability to society or society by a corporation or company. This accountability can be related to poverty alleviation, especially residents around the company who are directly affected by the company's activities that can be aligned with government programs. The problem that will be in this study is how to optimize corporate social responsibility and synergy with government policies in overcoming poverty to realize justice. The research method used is a normative research method related to CSR in the context of poverty alleviation by corporations and government using the statute approach and case approach and analyzed using content analysis.

The Impact of Digitalization on FDI Inflows in Saudi Arabia

Aim: This study investigated the impact of digitalization on foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows in Saudi Arabia. m Methods: The study identified critical digitalization and institutional factors and hypothesized their influence on FDI inflows to Saudi Arabia. Multiple linear regression analysis using the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method was conducted on data from 1997 to 2022, utilizing SPSS. Results: The outcomes revealed that digital infrastructure and government policy positively and significantly explain the FDI inflows in Saudi Arabia. The null hypothesis was rejected, indicating that effective digitalization and supportive government policy contribute to FDI inflows. Conclusion: The study concluded that internet access, mobile phone usage, and favorable government policies are key factors in attracting FDI inflows into Saudi Arabia. Recommendations: Policymakers should prioritize developing and implementing comprehensive digitalization strategies and regulations to improve digitalization and business-related institutions, raise the standard of digital transformation, and improve the regulatory environment framework to encourage more inward FDI inflows.

Implementasi Kebijakan Kredit Usaha Rakyat Guna Mendorong Peningkatan UMKM di Kantor Cabang Non Metro Bank BRI Jakarta 3

Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) is a government policy in Indonesia initiated in 2007. KUR provides financial assistance to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) under specific conditions and terms. The general aim of KUR is to support the Indonesian community in developing their MSMEs to progress continuously. It not only aids the community in business ventures but also contributes to Indonesia's GDP due to the significant potential of MSMEs in boosting the national economy. This study aims to understand how the implementation of the Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR) operates in non-metro branch offices of Bank BRI. The research employs a qualitative method involving interviews with employees at the Jakarta 3 regional office of Bank BRI, revealing that the policy's implementation has been effective.

Absence of effects of widespread badger culling on tuberculosis in cattle

Government policy in England aims for the elimination of bovine tuberculosis (bTB). This policy includes culling of European badger (Meles meles) to reduce cattle TB incidence. The rationale is based on a field trial, the Randomised Badger Culling Trial (RBCT) 1998–2005, which reported a substantial decrease in bTB herd incidence where badger culling had been implemented, in comparison to untreated control areas. The RBCT was undertaken because previous studies of reductions in badgers by culling, reported a possible association between bTB in badger and cattle, but none could directly show causation. The effect of intensive widespread (proactive) culling in the RBCT was reported in 2006 in the journal Nature. Analysis of an extensive badger removal programme in England since 2013 has raised concerns that culling has not reduced bTB herd incidence. The present study re-examined RBCT data using a range of statistical models. Most analytical options showed no evidence to support an effect of badger culling on bTB herd incidence ‘confirmed’ by visible lesions and/or bacterial culture post mortem following a comparative intradermal skin test (SICCT). However, the statistical model chosen by the RBCT study was one of the few models that showed an effect. Various criteria suggest that this was not an optimal model, compared to other analytical options available. The most likely explanation is that the RBCT proactive cull analysis over-fitted the data with a non-standard method to control for exposure giving it a poor predictive value. Fresh appraisal shows that there was insufficient evidence to conclude RBCT proactive badger culling affected bTB breakdown incidence. The RBCT found no evidence of an effect of culling on ‘total’ herd incidence rates. Total herd incidences include those confirmed as bTB at necropsy and those herds where there was at least one animal animal positive to the comparative intradermal skin test, the standard diagnostic test used for routine surveillance, but not confirmed at necropsy. This was also the case using the more suitable statistical models. Use only of ‘confirmed’ herd incidence data, together with a more recent (2013) published perception that RBCT data presented ‘a strong evidence base….with appropriate detailed statistical or other quantitative analysis’ should be reconsidered. The results of the present report are consistent with other analyses that were unable to detect any disease control benefits from badger culling in England (2013–2019). This study demonstrates one form of potential driver to the reproducibility crisis, in this case with disease control management in an increasingly intensified livestock industry.

Prevention of School Attendance Problems in Japan: A Macro-Level Perspective on Avoidance Behaviour

In this study, we examined government policies and the relevant law on prevention measures for school attendance problems in Japanese compulsory education schools from the perspective of school avoidance behaviour. In summary: (a) the number of students with school attendance problems has been increasing rapidly since 2017; (b) despite an increase in school counsellors as a government-initiated prevention measure, the number of students with school attendance problems has risen; (c) government policies and the relevant law seek to foster social independence even for students unable to return to school and to provide spaces where students with school attendance problems feel comfortable, which may inadvertently reinforce or perpetuate school avoidance behaviour; and (d) in the Japanese compulsory education system, stakeholders have limited opportunities to block school avoidance behaviour. We propose two measures to prevent school attendance problems drawing on a macro-level behavioural perspective: (a) employing data on class absences in mainstream schools, regardless of the reason for the absence, as an evaluation criterion for prolonged school absenteeism, and (b) implementing appropriate grade repetition for students who miss classes in their mainstream school over a certain threshold, including withholding the school diploma.

Moving from idea to reality: The barriers and enablers to implementing Child and Family Hubs policy into practice in NSW, Australia

BackgroundAdverse childhood experiences can impact physical and mental health throughout the lifespan. To support families experiencing adversity and improve child health and developmental equity, an integrated, multi-sector response is required. Child and Family Hubs (Hubs) are a feasible and acceptable approach to providing such a response. In the Australian context, a number of federal and New South Wales (NSW) state policies support an integrated, multi-sector response using Hubs to support families experiencing adversity. This study examined NSW policy stakeholder and health service manager perspectives on the barriers and enablers to translating policy into practice in the implementation of Child and Family Hubs.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 NSW government policy stakeholders and 13 community health service managers working in child and family policy and planning or child and family community-based services. Interviews were of 30–60 min duration and explored stakeholder knowledge, perspectives and experiences around childhood adversity, and barriers and enablers to operationalizing policies supporting Hubs. Analysis of barriers and facilitators to implementation of Hub models of care was undertaken using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).ResultsKey barriers that emerged included short-term and inconsistent funding, lack of resourcing for a Hub co-ordinator, limited support for evaluation and insufficient time to plan for Hub implementation. Key enablers included flexibility and adaptability of Hub models to meet local needs, formal change management processes, strong governance structures and engagement among Hub practitioners. Key insights included the importance of targeted strategies to support sustained individual practice change and the need for organization-wide commitment to enable the successful adoption and maintenance of the Hub model of care.ConclusionsThis study provides valuable insights and contributes evidence around what is needed to strengthen and support the operationalization and scalability of the Hub model of care. Key recommendations for Hub practitioners include the importance of formal change management processes and establishment of strong governance structures, while key recommendations for policymakers include the need for sustainable Hub funding and a standardized, evidence-based framework to support Hub implementation and evaluation.

Survival Strategy for Tourism Business Actors During the Covid-19 Pandemic in Badung Regency

Until the present time, it has been almost two years since the world was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic and for almost two years, Indonesia, including Bali, has been struggling against the Covid-19 pandemic which has had an enormous impact on various sectors, including the tourism and creative economy sectors. Badung Regency as the centre of tourism in Bali is the area most affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. In this area there are many employment issues where many hotels, restaurants/cafes and other types of tourism businesses are forced to close due to lack of visitors. As a result, the highest number of cases of termination of employment and employees who were laid off occurred in Badung Regency; the figure reached 28,609 people who were laid off and 631 people whose employment was terminated. This study aims to (1) examine the profile of tourism business actors in the Covid-19 pandemic situation in Badung Regency, (2) examine the influence of the role of government policies, social capital, and technological capital on the entrepreneurial spirit of tourism business actors in the Badung Regency, (3) examine the influence of the role of government policy, social capital, technological capital and entrepreneurial spirit on the economic resilience of tourism business actors in the Badung Regency, and (4) formulate a strategy to strengthen the capacity of tourism business actors to be able to survive during the Covid-19 pandemic in the Badung Regency This research was conducted in Badung Regency in four sub-districts, namely South Kuta District, Kuta District, North Kuta District, and Petang District. Respondents in this study were determined to be 120 people with several informants. The analytical techniques used are descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and PLS. The results of the study show the condition of the economic resilience of tourism business actors is still relatively good as indicated by the indicator that the majority of respondents have their own homes, are still able to send their children to a higher level of education, have an average income exceeding the minimum wage for the Badung Regency as well as having adequate savings and access to health insurance. The results of statistical tests show the role of government policy, social capital, and technological capital have a positive and significant effect on the entrepreneurial spirit and family economic resilience. Indirectly, the role of government policies, social capital and technological capital have a positive and significant effect on family economic resilience through an entrepreneurial spirit. There are three strategies that should be taken by business actors, such as optimizing digital platforms, wait and see strategy and bundling products.

The Specifics of the Relationship between the State and Business in Modern India

India, a member of the BRICS and the SCO, can play an important role in deepening Eurasian integration. However, in order to make possible the use of its integration potential, it is necessary to fully understand the specifics of this country, the nature of its existing political and economic system, which, in particular, is determined by the established model of relations between the state and business.Aim. To identify the features of the system of relations between the state and business, which has developed in India during the period of economic reforms and determines the potential and specifics of its political and economic development.Tasks. To trace the main stages of the evolution of relations between the state and business in the Republic of India, to assess government policy in relation to the main types of business and various business structures, to identify the degree of influence of private business on the policy and dynamics of economic development of the country.Methods. Systematic and comparative analysis, scientific generalization, expert assessments. Results. The article provides a scientific generalization of the evolution of models and methods of interaction between the state and business of the Republic of India, an assessment of their effectiveness from the point of view of socio-economic development of the country.Conclusions. The formation of the system of relations between the state and business in modern India was determined by the needs of the economic and social development of the country, the essence and forms of which were determined by the dominance of the relevant political forces and ideologies. At the initial stage, the use of repressive and coercive regulatory methods led to the establishment of a patron — client relationship between the state and business in all industrial sectors, focused on obtaining rent. However, subsequently, the growing inefficiency of the Indian economy and the growth of corruption forced the country’s ruling elites to reconsider their political and economic views and switch to a policy of economic liberalization, as a result of which India began to acquire the characteristic features of a “development state”. Currently, in a regulated market economy, the state, on the one hand, seeks to ensure greater freedom of the market, private entrepreneurship, promote greater openness and internationalization of the economy, on the other hand, weaken and limit large capital to protect small and medium-sized enterprises. At the same time, the relations between the state and business continue to be largely clientelistic, which, according to many experts, hinders further economic liberalization and increasing the global competitiveness of the Indian economy.

Knowledge in motion: temporal dynamics of wild food plant use in the Polish-Lithuanian-Belarusian border region

BackgroundUnderstanding how Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) evolves over time is crucial for fostering social and environmental responsibility. This study aims to develop a conceptual model of plant knowledge circulation, providing insights into the temporal dynamics of LEK in the Polish-Lithuanian-Belarusian border region. It explores the key patterns and driving forces behind changes in the use of wild plants for food.MethodsField research was conducted in 60 rural settlements across Podlasie Voivodeship (Poland), Vilnius Region (Lithuania), and Hrodna Region (Belarus). This included 200 semi-structured interviews and participant observation among two local communities, Lithuanians and Poles. To assess the temporal dynamics of wild food use, we performed a cross-ethnic, cross-border analysis over time, dividing the data into three major temporal dimensions: past, continuous, and recently acquired uses.ResultsOf the 72 wild plant taxa reported by Poles or Lithuanians in the Polish-Lithuanian-Belarusian borderland, 47 were continuously used for food, 58 were utilised in the past, and 41 were recently acquired. Cross-country trends were similar, with Poland showing more past uses. Diachronic comparisons between Poles and Lithuanians in each studied country revealed no significant differences. Recently acquired taxa overlapped considerably with those used continuously and in the past. The most diversely utilised taxa showed the greatest overlaps. By observing the movement of specific plant taxa within various time dimensions, we distinguished overlapping flow variations: retention (3 taxa), decay (11), invention (8), stagnation (17), revitalisation (6), re-invention (3), and knowledge in motion (24). Shifts in the use of wild food plants were influenced by changes in environmental conditions, governmental policies, cultural practices, and economic factors.ConclusionThe findings of this study have important implications for improving methods of tracking changes in LEK and enhancing our understanding of the relationship between people and nature. Our results underscore the importance of considering knowledge circulation over time in different directions. Recognising the various stages of knowledge circulation might help in pursuing sustainable solutions that balance the needs of human communities with environmental protection.

“Striving to Facilitate the Achievement of the PIRA's Aims”? The Labour Government, the Army and the Crisis of the British State over Northern Ireland 1972–76

AbstractThis article argues that there was a crisis within the British state over policy towards Northern Ireland (1972–76). The Conservative then Labour government pursued a broadly bipartisan and conciliatory policy, culminating in the failed powersharing experiment (1974). By contrast, the New Right within the Conservative Party but also powerful elements in the Army and Intelligence Services, the Royal Ulster Constabulary and Unionism opposed conciliation as ‘appeasement’ and even treachery. They claimed conciliation and rumours of British political support for withdrawal encouraged the IRA and undermined the repressive approach that was necessary to win. From this perspective, the Conservative then Labour government were, in effect, ‘… striving to facilitate the achievement of the PIRA's aims’ and so they resisted government policy. The crisis intensified as more troops were killed, and the Army suffered severe problems of morale, recruitment and retention. The Army's emergency created a need to withdraw troops and Ulsterise the conflict. Although this constrained the Labour government's ability to defend powersharing, the Army also appeared reluctant to support the government's conciliatory policy. The crisis of the British state over Northern Ireland (1972–76) provides part of the context in which allegations about the undermining of Prime Minister Harold Wilson and the Labour government in the 1970s should be considered.

Asymmetric affective polarization regarding COVID-19 vaccination in six European countries

While recent research has shown that supporters and opponents of COVID-19 vaccination have polarizing political attitudes and beliefs, we lack a thorough understanding of how these two groups think about each other. To investigate the feelings and stereotypes between supporters and opponents of COVID-19 vaccination, this study draws on cross-sectional survey data from six European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom), collected between January and March 2022 (n = 6379). Our findings indicate an opinion-based affective polarization between supporters and opponents of COVID-19 vaccination. Both groups not only adopt different positions on the issue but also display dynamics of in-group favoritism and out-group hostility. Most notably, our assessment of thermometer scores and character trait ratings shows that this affective polarization is asymmetric, as it is stronger among the pro-vaccination group. Our findings are critical to the control of infectious diseases because affective polarization has been shown to influence health behaviors such as compliance with government policies. The issue is even more pressing as globalization boosts the threat of pandemic emergence and accelerates the global transmission of diseases.

Asymmetric affective polarization regarding COVID-19 vaccination in six European countries

While recent research has shown that supporters and opponents of COVID-19 vaccination have polarizing political attitudes and beliefs, we lack a thorough understanding of how these two groups think about each other. To investigate the feelings and stereotypes between supporters and opponents of COVID-19 vaccination, this study draws on cross-sectional survey data from six European countries (France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom), collected between January and March 2022 (n = 6379). Our findings indicate an opinion-based affective polarization between supporters and opponents of COVID-19 vaccination. Both groups not only adopt different positions on the issue but also display dynamics of in-group favoritism and out-group hostility. Most notably, our assessment of thermometer scores and character trait ratings shows that this affective polarization is asymmetric, as it is stronger among the pro-vaccination group. Our findings are critical to the control of infectious diseases because affective polarization has been shown to influence health behaviors such as compliance with government policies. The issue is even more pressing as globalization boosts the threat of pandemic emergence and accelerates the global transmission of diseases.

Critical Success Factors for Public-Private Partnerships in the Development of Mega Power Generation Infrastructures in Sri Lanka

Ceylon Electricity Board (CEB) seeks alternative financing through Public Private Partnerships (PPP) due to non-cost-reflective tariff losses and debt overhang, relying on maturity in critical success factors. Thus, the research examines the success factors of Public Private Partnerships in developing power generation infrastructures in Sri Lanka, using quantitative data from a questionnaire distributed to stakeholders in CEB. The data analysis tools of descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the collected data. The economic viability of the project, credibility of government policies, legal and regulatory framework, equitable risk allocation, transparent and efficient procurement process, financial market, a strong and good private consortium, and political stability, were found as the main CSFs for the development of mega power plants. The study was concentrated on the public agency of CEB, for generalization investigation to be extended to private investors, practitioners, and policymakers in the power sector. Further, a comprehensive study on the exploration of CSF to attract private investors to PPP for the development of mega power plants in Sri Lanka would be most beneficial to the industry. The framework developed in this research would be the benchmark for identifying critical success factors for improvement in PPP projects in Sri Lanka.

Assessing the Impact and Challenges of English Medium Instruction in Saudi Arabian STEM Programs: A Comprehensive Review

In recent years, the adoption of English Medium Instruction (EMI) in non-Anglophone countries has garnered significant attention, particularly within STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs. Saudi Arabia, driven by the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, has implemented EMI across its higher education institutions to foster internationalization and enhance English proficiency among students. This paper reviews the current state of EMI in Saudi STEM programs, drawing on a comprehensive analysis of the socio-cultural, educational, and linguistic contexts. It explores the motivations behind the shift to EMI, the challenges encountered by students and educators, and the broader implications for educational quality and equity. The transition from Arabic Medium Instruction (AMI) to EMI in Saudi Arabia's STEM disciplines aims to prepare students for global competitiveness. However, this shift presents several challenges. Students often struggle with the sudden change in the medium of instruction, leading to difficulties in understanding complex scientific concepts. Furthermore, the quality of education may be compromised as students and educators navigate the linguistic demands of EMI. The potential cultural and linguistic impact on Arabic language and identity also raises concerns. This review synthesizes findings from various studies and theoretical frameworks to provide a holistic understanding of the EMI landscape in Saudi Arabia. The paper discusses the strategies employed by students and educators to cope with EMI, including preparatory programs and support mechanisms. It also highlights the role of government policies and institutional practices in shaping the EMI experience. While EMI aims to elevate the quality of education and English proficiency, it inadvertently creates educational inequalities. Students from private or international schools, who often have better English skills, are at an advantage compared to their peers from state schools. This disparity necessitates a re-evaluation of EMI policies to ensure inclusive and equitable education for all students. In conclusion, while EMI in Saudi STEM programs holds promise for advancing educational and economic goals, it requires careful consideration of the challenges and implications. Policymakers and educators must collaborate to address these challenges, ensuring that EMI serves as a tool for educational enhancement rather than a barrier to learning. Future research should continue to explore the long-term effects of EMI on student outcomes and the broader educational landscape in Saudi Arabia.

Enhancing Operations for Sustainability in Indonesian SMEs through Climate Change Awareness and Business Orientation

This study aims to identify the level of climate change awareness among small-medium scale entrepreneurs (SMEs) and to investigate its impact on future business orientation, with individual self-perception acting as a mediating variable. Addressing a significant gap in the literature, this research explores the reciprocal influence between SMEs and climate change—an area previously underexplored. Conducted in West Sumatra, Indonesia, this study employs a quantitative causal analysis approach using Structural Equation Modelling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) for robust analysis. The findings indicate that while awareness and self-perception of climate change among SMEs are low, they significantly influence potential changes in business orientation. The study reveals that although many SMEs possess a high level of educational attainment, this does not necessarily translate into heightened awareness or self-perception regarding climate change. This disconnect underscores the critical role of tailored educational initiatives and support systems to bridge the gap between knowledge and action. Additionally, the study finds that SMEs often prioritize immediate financial stability over long-term environmental sustainability, driven by the necessity to meet daily operational demands. These results underscore the urgent need for pre-emptive government policies to guide SMEs toward sustainable practices. Effective interventions should include financial incentives, technical assistance, and educational programs designed to enhance climate change awareness and capabilities among SMEs. Furthermore, this study contributes to the field of industrial engineering by identifying opportunities to optimize SME operations. By integrating environmental sustainability into business strategies, SMEs can enhance their resilience and competitiveness while contributing to broader environmental goals. This research advances the understanding of the dynamic interplay between SMEs and climate change, providing a foundation for future studies aimed at promoting sustainable industrial practices.

Driving the Transport Electrification: Exploring Stakeholders’ Perceptions and Actions in the Indonesian Automotive Industry Transition to Electric Mobility

The rise of all types of electric vehicles (xEVs) is reshaping the global automotive sector, marking a new era of electric mobility (eMobility). While existing research predominantly explores the transition towards eMobility from the perspectives of automakers, governments, and users, a notable gap exists regarding the role of internal combustion engine (ICE) component manufacturers. This research aims to examine the transformative journey of the Indonesian automotive industry, specifically focusing on the strategic responses of Indonesian ICE component manufacturers towards eMobility. This study employs a multi-level perspective (MLP) approach through 12 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders representing government bodies, associations, automakers, academia, startups, and ICE component manufacturers. This research sheds light on stakeholders’ perceptions and actions in the transition to eMobility. The findings reveal various factors influencing transition, including current low xEV demand, companies’ perceptions of xEVs, huge investments, changes in the supply chain, technological capabilities, and government policies. This research provides an overview of the strategies for ICE component manufacturers, along with their risks and advantages. This research also recommends two policies for the Indonesian government: a gradual transition and more support for local xEV and component manufacturing.

Driving the Transport Electrification: Exploring Stakeholders’ Perceptions and Actions in the Indonesian Automotive Industry Transition to Electric Mobility

The rise of all types of electric vehicles (xEVs) is reshaping the global automotive sector, marking a new era of electric mobility (eMobility). While existing research predominantly explores the transition towards eMobility from the perspectives of automakers, governments, and users, a notable gap exists regarding the role of internal combustion engine (ICE) component manufacturers. This research aims to examine the transformative journey of the Indonesian automotive industry, specifically focusing on the strategic responses of Indonesian ICE component manufacturers towards eMobility. This study employs a multi-level perspective (MLP) approach through 12 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders representing government bodies, associations, automakers, academia, startups, and ICE component manufacturers. This research sheds light on stakeholders’ perceptions and actions in the transition to eMobility. The findings reveal various factors influencing transition, including current low xEV demand, companies’ perceptions of xEVs, huge investments, changes in the supply chain, technological capabilities, and government policies. This research provides an overview of the strategies for ICE component manufacturers, along with their risks and advantages. This research also recommends two policies for the Indonesian government: a gradual transition and more support for local xEV and component manufacturing.

Regulating Dominant Platforms: Challenges and Opportunities of Content Moderation on Jio Platforms

Abstract Indian multinational technology company, Jio Platforms with an active subscriber base of 467.6 million (February 2024, Telecom Regulatory Authority of India data) continues to lead the market in India. Digitisation has transformed India’s governance model as deep penetration of telecom and the internet in India has laid the foundation for a digital economy. This article examines the role of self-regulation mechanisms and censorship in India’s dominant platform company Jio Platforms which contributes significantly to changing the paradigm of digital governance, thereby making services seamless, and easily accessible and improving the ease of living and doing business. Facebook’s investment in Jio for a 9.99 percent stake makes it the largest investment for a minority stake by a tech company anywhere in the world. With Jio Platforms and Facebook parent Meta Platforms rolling out a grocery delivery app using Meta’s WhatsApp messaging service, the transnational ties are deepening and expanding, making it imperative to examine the role of self-regulation and censorship in a market that is open, diverse and the largest in a democratic governance structure. This article will examine the key concerns of data sharing and privacy, especially when the central plank of government policy is digitisation. With stricter government regulations for foreign players in the market, there is a distinct focus of the government on boosting Indian companies to capture and control the market. Data collated by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) show India’s overall internet user base grew to around 936.16 million in 2023. Such a diverse and vibrant open market calls for effective regulations and restrictions on privacy, algorithms, deceptive practices, antitrust, financing, and governance. This article aims to investigate the challenges of regulating dominant platforms. It delves deep into understanding and analysing the challenges and opportunities that evolve in regulating Jio Platforms. The study will also inquire whether favourable government policies and national legislation boost the processes of digitisation and whether there is a need for a new regulatory framework laid by the government for platforms to abide by. India has an open market dominated by US multinational firms, such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter. Content removal and other online censorship efforts are topics of heated debate, in academia and policy circles. This makes it arduous to ensure that data protection and privacy are safeguarded, particularly by dominant platforms such as Jio Platforms which is almost monopolising the Indian market.