Shaping Policy Research Articles

“Quo Vadis” The Regulation of Personal Vaporizer Policy in Indonesia

Indonesia is one of the global users of vape products, with a growing number of users driving the need for regulatory clarity regarding product legality. Previous studies have highlighted the negative health impacts of vape use; however, the vape industry has emerged as a potential driver of Indonesia's economic growth. Therefore, a multidimensional review of vape regulation in Indonesia is essential to shape policies based on various perspectives, such as the penta-helix model. This study aimed to analyze vape policies in Indonesia through a penta-helix approach. The findings indicated that vape product policies and standardization required integration among multiple stakeholders, including the Indonesian government, business actors, media, communities, and researchers. Before implementing vape-related regulations, the Indonesian government should engage stakeholders to align policies with the evolving vape industry landscape in Indonesia. Furthermore, regulatory implementation requires the support of other stakeholders to raise public awareness, ensuring compliance with the established regulations. Key areas needing public outreach include the minimum age for vape use, vape as a cessation tool for conventional cigarette users, legal marketing practices both offline and online, and penalties for non-compliance by sellers or buyers. Keywords: Penta-helix, policy, regulation, stakeholder, vape

Balancing acts? Exploring the dynamics between quantity and quality in Chinese transnational higher education through data governance

ABSTRACT The rapid expansion of transnational higher education (TNHE) has become a prominent feature of the global higher education field. However, research investigating the quantity-driven approach in TNHE remains limited. This study investigates dual dynamics of quantitative growth and qualitative enhancement within Chinese TNHE, focusing on the role of data governance. Drawing on 15 semi-structured interviews with administrators from the international departments of four Chinese universities, this research illuminates how data-driven policies shape decisions at the intersection of quantitative expansion and qualitative enhancement. The findings indicate that administrators’ efforts are primarily driven by the pursuit of numerical targets established by data-centric policies. Such governance emphasises the instructive significance of data, leading administrators to recognise and utilise data as a key tool in decision-making processes and prioritise over quality. This study critiques the misrepresentation of the quality and effectiveness of TNHE programs, leading to a misrecognition where data metrics dictate educational value.

Review of the Integrated Approaches for Monitoring and Treating Parabens in Water Matrices.

Due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties, parabens are commonly used as biocides and preservatives in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Parabens have been reported to exist in various water matrices at low concentrations, which renders the need for sample preparation before their quantification using analytical techniques. Thus, sample preparation methods such as solid-phase extraction (SPE), rotating-disk sorptive extraction (RDSE), and vortex-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid extraction (VA-DLLE) that are commonly used for parabens extraction and preconcentration have been discussed. As a result of sample preparation methods, analytical techniques now detect parabens at trace levels ranging from µg/L to ng/L. These compounds have been detected in water, air, soil, and human tissues. While the full impact of parabens on human health and ecosystems is still being debated in the scientific community, it is widely recognized that parabens can act as endocrine disruptors. Furthermore, some studies have suggested that parabens may have carcinogenic effects. The presence of parabens in the environment is primarily due to wastewater discharges, which result in widespread contamination and their concentrations increased during the COVID-19 pandemic waves. Neglecting the presence of parabens in water exposes humans to these compounds through contaminated food and drinking water. Although there are reviews that focus on the occurrence, fate, and behavior of parabens in the environment, they frequently overlook critical aspects such as removal methods, policy development, and regulatory frameworks. Addressing this gap, the effective treatment of parabens in water relies on combined approaches that address both cost and operational challenges. Membrane filtration methods, such as nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO), demonstrate high efficacy but are hindered by maintenance and energy costs due to extensive fouling. Innovations in anti-fouling and energy efficiency, coupled with pre-treatment methods like adsorption, help mitigate these costs and enhance scalability. Furthermore, combining adsorption with advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) or biological treatments significantly improves economic and energy efficiency. Integrating systems like O₃/UV with activated carbon, along with byproduct recovery strategies, further advances circular economy goals by minimizing waste and resource use. This review provides a thorough overview of paraben monitoring in wastewater, current treatment techniques, and the regulatory policies that govern their presence. Furthermore, it provides perspectives that are critical for future scientific investigations and shaping policies aimed at mitigating the risks of parabens in drinking water.

Policy formulation and actor roles in the expanded Kenyan free maternity policy (Linda Mama): A policy analysis.

In 2013, Kenya implemented free maternity services, later expanded in 2016 into the 'Linda Mama' policy to provide essential health services for pregnant women. This study explored the policy formulation background, processes, content, and actors' roles in formulation and implementation. Using a convergent parallel mixed-methods case study design, we reviewed documents and conducted in-depth interviews with national stakeholders, county officials, and healthcare workers. We applied a theoretical framework capturing the background and context, processes, content, and actors. The study spanned national, county, and facility levels within Kenya's health system. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a framework thematic approach. Findings showed that political imperatives and global and national goals shaped the expanded policy, drawing on previous learnings. Actor power played a crucial role in shaping policy direction, reflecting their interests and capacity to influence decisions. The policy aimed to improve coverage and administrative efficiency, with NHIF becoming the primary purchaser of services to ensure sustainability and address legal challenges. The policy design, marked by conflicts and time pressures, required a collaborative approach to reconcile design and costing differences. Despite differing interests, discussions and dialogues were essential for leadership and conflict management, culminating in key policy documents. A committee was established for stakeholders to freely discuss and debate the policy design, enabling relevant players to devise solutions and fostering joint commitment for implementation. Government officials, development partners, and representatives significantly influenced policy formulation. Beneficiary representatives had limited awareness of public participation opportunities. National and county actors supported achieving audit, research, financing, and strategic operational goals crucial for policy implementation. In conclusion, this study highlights the continued significance of policy analysis frameworks and theories in understanding the complex nature of policy development. These findings offer valuable insights for countries designing or redesigning healthcare policies and provide relevant information to academic communities.

Advancements in Understanding Beryllium Contamination: Novel Insights Into Environmental Risk Assessment

ABSTRACTBeryllium (Be), a lightweight metal with significant industrial applications, poses notable environmental and health risks due to its toxicity and persistence, and widespread use, particularly in the mechanical, aerospace, and electronics sectors. It is commonly alloyed with other heavy metals to enhance material properties. The primary environmental pathways for Be release include emissions from coal and fossil fuels combustion, as well as the incineration of solid wastes. Once introduced into the natural environment, primarily Be associated with soil particles and sediments, particularly in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This review examined the pathways through which Be enters the environment, including atmospheric deposition, industrial discharge, and leaching from natural geologic deposits. The paper highlights the bioavailability and mobility of Be in soil and water systems, emphasizing the geochemical and physical factors influencing its persistence and potential for bioaccumulation. Risk appraisal methodologies are evaluated, with a focus on human exposure routes, including inhalation of airborne particulates and ingestion of contaminated water and food. The toxicological impacts on human health are critically analyzed, detailing both acute and chronic effects, such as respiratory diseases and carcinogenicity. This review evaluates existing regulatory frameworks and remediation strategies, assessing their efficacy in mitigating environmental contamination and exposure to Be. By integrating interdisciplinary research, this paper provides an in‐depth understanding of the environmental behavior and toxicology of beryllium, offering insights that can inform robust policy frameworks and shape future research directions.

Defense Policy Shaping and Security Governance: The Role and Impact of Defense Industry and Military Contractors

This research explores the pivotal role of defense contractors in shaping defense policy and their significant impact on national security dynamics. Using qualitative research methods, with an emphasis on secondary data analysis, the study synthesizes findings from government reports, academic literature, and industry analyses. Key findings reveal the considerable influence of defense contractors’ lobbying activities on defense budget allocations and procurement policies, often redirecting resources toward projects that align with their technological expertise and profit motives. Additionally, defense contractors play a crucial role in shaping defense research and development priorities, driving innovation in areas such as cybersecurity, missile defense systems, and unmanned technologies. Ethically, the revolving door phenomenon between defense contractors and government officials raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest, undermining impartial decision-making and public trust. This research offers a comprehensive understanding of the strategic implications of contractor influence on defense policy, highlighting the need for greater transparency, accountability, and balanced competition in defense procurement. By illuminating these dynamics, the study contributes to policy discussions aimed at promoting ethical governance and ensuring the integrity of national security.

Prevalence and Determinants of Modern Contraceptive Use among Rohingya Women of Reproductive Age Residing in Refugee Camps in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background: Comprehensive studies on the determinants of modern contraceptive use in humanitarian settings are relatively uncommon in Bangladesh. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and determinants of modern contraceptive use among Rohingya women living in the refugee camp of Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 160 Rohingya refugee women aged 15-49 living in unregistered camps (Camps 7 and 14) in Ukhiya Upazila, Cox's Bazar. In the study, participants were selected using a convenience sampling method, and the sample size was calculated using the single population proportion formula. However, only 160 participants were recruited due to travel restrictions and safety measures implemented throughout Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. The data were gathered via a structured questionnaire. Results were summarized using both descriptive and inferential statistics and SPSS v.23 software was used for data analysis at 5% level of significance. Results: The prevalence of contraceptive use was found to be 41.9%. The most commonly used contraceptives were Injection Depot-Provera (65.7%) and Oral Contraceptive Pill (OCP) (28.4%) followed by implant (4.5%) and intrauterine device (IUD) (1.5%). Multivariate logistic regression revealed lower odds of modern contraceptive use among women who had more than a 1.5 year interval between the last two pregnancies (OR = 0.19; 95% CI = 0.07– 0.51) and higher odds were found who expressed a lack of desire for future pregnancies (OR = 13.69; 95% CI = 3.43–54.68). Community Health Workers (CHWs) (80.4%) were the main sources of information on modern contraceptives, whereas hospitals (83.6%) were the most accessible places to obtain contraceptives. Conclusion: Community health workers play a vital role in disseminating information, emphasizing the need for their training and involvement in relevant programs. These findings are crucial for shaping future research, policies, and reproductive health services in humanitarian settings.

Innovative Transitions: Exploring Demand for Smart City Development in Novi Sad as a European Capital of Culture

This study investigates the factors influencing the acceptance and implementation of smart city solutions, with a particular focus on smart mobility and digital services in Novi Sad, one of the leading urban centers in Serbia. Employing a quantitative methodology, the research encompasses citizens’ perceptions of the benefits of smart technologies, their level of awareness regarding smart solutions, the degree of engagement in using digital services, and their interest in smart mobility. The results indicate that these factors are crucial for the successful integration of smart technologies. Notably, awareness of smart city initiatives and the perceived benefits, such as improved mobility, reduced traffic congestion, increased energy efficiency, and enhanced quality of life, are highlighted as key prerequisites for the adoption of these solutions. Novi Sad, as the European Capital of Culture in 2022, presents a unique opportunity for the implementation of these technologies. Our findings point to the need for strategic campaigns aimed at educating and raising public awareness. The practical implications of this study could contribute to shaping policies that encourage the development of smart cities, not only in Novi Sad but also in other urban areas across Serbia and the region. This study confirms the importance of citizen engagement and technological literacy in the transformation of urban environments through smart solutions, underscoring the potential of these technologies to improve everyday life and achieve sustainable urban development.

Impact of rural transformation on rural income and poverty for sustainable development inBangladesh: A moments‐quantile regression with fixed‐effects models Approach

AbstractThis study examines the impact of rural transformation on income and poverty in Bangladesh using district‐level panel data from five rounds of the Household Income and Expenditure Survey conducted in 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2016. Two key indicators are assessed: the share of high‐value agriculture and non‐farm employment. Fixed effects and moments‐quantile regression models are employed to analyze the relationships between rural transformation, income, and poverty, accounting for education, healthcare, electricity access, and land ownership. The results show that both high‐value agriculture and non‐farm employment significantly boost rural income and reduce poverty. Geographic disparities are evident, with high‐value agriculture being most effective in agriculturally favorable regions, while non‐farm employment has a stronger impact in areas with fewer agricultural opportunities. These findings are critical in shaping policies aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 1, which seeks to eradicate poverty. The findings indicate the need for policies to prioritize high‐value agriculture and non‐farm employment to promote income growth and reduce poverty. Expanding agricultural extension services and vocational training is vital for this transformation, alongside targeted investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and energy access to enhance rural development and poverty alleviation across Bangladesh.

Electoral Turnovers

Abstract In most national elections, voters face a key choice between continuity and change. Electoral turnovers occur when the incumbent candidate or party fails to win reelection. To understand how turnovers affect national outcomes, we study all presidential and parliamentary elections held globally between 1946 and 2018. We document the prevalence of turnovers over time and estimate their effects on economic performance, human development, and the quality of democracy. Using a close-elections regression discontinuity design across countries, we show that turnovers improve several measures of country performance. To explain these positive effects, we explore how electoral turnovers affect leader characteristics, shape policy decisions, reduce perceived corruption, and foster accountability.

Motivations behind end-of-life care: a qualitative study of Iranian nurses’ experiences

BackgroundProviding high-quality end-of-life care is currently a paramount health priority. Given that the standard of care is intrinsically linked to nurses’ motivations, it is becoming too imperative to explore the contributing factors Consequently, this study was undertaken to elucidate the experiences of Iranian nurses regarding their motivation for delivering end-of-life care.MethodsThis research is a qualitative, descriptive inquiry employing conventional content analysis, carried out at two governmental hospitals in Gorgan, northern Iran, from February to July 2023. 12 nurses were purposefully selected to participate in the study, ensuring maximal diversity. The data were collected through semi structured interviews and analyzed using Graneheim and Lundman’s five-step method. The coding process was facilitated by the useof MAXQDA version 10 software. To establish rigor, the four criteria outlined by Guba and Lincoln were applied.Resultsthe participants included eight women and four men with an average age of 39.6 ± 6.31 years. The data analysis yielded five main categories and fifteen subcategories. The main categories were: “The Foundations of professional care in nursing”, “Core Drivers in Optimal End-of-Life Care”, “Family Involvement in End-of-Life Care”, “Incorporating Spiritualism in Care” and “Dominant motivational Issues Within the Caregiving Atmosphere”.ConclusionsThis study delineates the experiences that influence the provision of end-of-life care from the perspective of Iranian nurses. Innate traits such as empathy and a passion for nursing, in addition to nurses’ moral compass and spiritual beliefs, serve as pivotal motivational stimuli. Leveraging these findings can be instrumental in shaping healthcare practices and policies to enhance the quality of end-of-life care.

Changes in the Global Structure of Energy Consumption and the Energy Transition Process

The global energy transition represents a pivotal aspect of the pursuit of sustainable development and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The objective of this study was to examine the dynamic relationships between global primary energy consumption and the consumption of individual energy sources (nuclear, oil, coal, natural gas, renewables) from 2011 to 2023. To examine both long-run and short-run relationships between variables, advanced econometric methods were employed, including the Johansen cointegration test and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). Furthermore, an Index of Sustainable Energy Transformation (ISTE) was devised to quantify the advancement of the transition to low-carbon energy sources. The analysis confirms the existence of long-term equilibrium relationships between global primary energy consumption and the consumption of individual energy sources. The analysis revealed that renewable energy consumption exerts a considerable influence on primary energy consumption, both in the short and long term. The ISTE index demonstrated a notable increase over the period of 2011 to 2023, indicative of advancement in the global energy transition. The results confirm the existence of a stable long-term equilibrium between global primary energy consumption and the consumption of individual energy sources. The observed increase in the ISTE index indicates progress towards low-carbon energy sources, which has important implications for energy policy and sustainable development. The results can support policymakers in monitoring the progress of the energy transition and shaping policies to accelerate the development of renewable energy sources.

Decoding Public Policy: How Cultural Dynamics Shape Decision-Making in Indonesia’s Political Landscape

This study explores how cultural dynamics shape public policy in Indonesia, focusing on the influence of cultural dimensions on policy-making processes and outcomes. The purpose is to understand the impacts of Indonesian cultural values on various policy sectors, including education, health, environment, and economic development. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study relies exclusively on secondary data from academic literature, government reports, and media sources to examine these cultural influences. Findings reveal that high power distance leads to centralized decision-making, while collectivism shapes policies toward community welfare. High uncertainty avoidance results in rigid regulatory frameworks, and traditional gender roles affect gender-related policies. Sector-specific analyses highlight the integration of traditional knowledge in environmental policies and the challenges of balancing modernization with cultural heritage in economic policies. The implications of these findings suggest that policymakers should incorporate cultural considerations into policy design to enhance effectiveness and inclusivity. This research contributes original insights into the intersection of culture and policy, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches in diverse governance contexts. By shedding light on how cultural factors impact policy formulation and implementation, the study offers valuable guidance for developing culturally relevant and effective policies addressing societal needs.

Museums in Action: How Museums are redefining their Role in European Projects

An innovative and detailed analysis of the role of museums in European Union-funded projects is presented in this article, based on a thorough search of the European CORDIS database. The study explores how museums have transformed from being passive custodians of cultural heritage to becoming dynamic and multifunctional actors in European research and innovation. Through a systematic analysis of European projects funded in the 2007-2022 period, the article highlights the growing participation of museums in various EU programs, the varied roles they assume-from beneficiary partners to associate collaborators-and their impact in key areas such as education, research, digitization and technological innovation. This research provides both quantitative and qualitative insights into museums' involvement in shaping European cultural identity and policy development. The paper is of particular interest to policy makers, museum professionals and cultural heritage researchers, offering a unique perspective on the evolving role of museums in the European context and future opportunities for collaboration and funding.

Energy Flexibility in Aluminium Smelting: A Long-Term Feasibility Study Based on the Prospects of Electricity Load and Photovoltaic Production

This paper investigates the economic feasibility of utilising energy flexibility in aluminium production as a viable solution to leverage electricity surpluses arising from the increasing number of photovoltaic (PV) system installations. Future trends suggest that the generation capacity of PV systems will soon surpass consumption, leading to significant electricity surpluses, particularly during the summer. This surplus electricity, which is anticipated to be available at low prices, offers a unique opportunity to evaluate different investment and utilisation scenarios for aluminium production while simultaneously decreasing its environmental impact. The results demonstrate that, despite their high initial investment cost, large-scale PV power plants can potentially deliver maximum economic gains over a ten-year period. Conversely, the direct utilisation of surpluses without substantial investment can yield savings of up to EUR 17 million within the same time frame for Slovenia’s case with an aluminium smelter, which has a maximum power usage of 60 MW. The findings of this study have significant implications in terms of shaping future energy strategies and policies, emphasizing the value of integrating renewable energy sources and industrial processes for enhanced economic and environmental outcomes.

THE FINANCIAL LIBERALIZATION POLICY AND ITS IMPACT ON THE GROWTH OF SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES

The country's development is mainly concerned with the foundation of a stable economy. An efficient financial system is mandatory for the development of solid economy. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are essential in stabilizing the economy. This is remarkably accurate in emerging economies like Pakistan. The objective of financial liberalization is to facilitate financing access and stimulate investment. However, the impact of this policy on SMEs can vary based on factors such as the regulatory framework, market structure, and institutional support. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the impact of financial liberalization on SMEs to foster inclusive economic growth and shape policy development. The study intends to find whether or not the growth of small and medium enterprises depends upon the government's financial liberalization policies. Using the ARDL econometric method, we find that Shareholder’s Equity is positively associated with SME growth rate, holding other variables constant. Moreover, total assets positively affect the SMEs' growth rate. Financial Development does not have a statistically significant effect on SME growth in the short run. Economic Growth rate positively influences SME growth. External financing changes may not immediately affect SME growth in the short run. The results show that changes in the number of bank branches do not significantly affect SME growth in the short run.

Meeting the challenges of participation? Care experienced people’s involvement in social work practice and policy development

ABSTRACT Although the last decade has seen policy initiatives in the UK aiming to improve the experiences of children in care and care leavers, most have received criticism for either not involving care experienced people, or for their lack of inclusivity. Indeed, little is known about the extent to which people with lived experience shape practice and policy developments, which reflects a significant gap in our understanding of what trying to make changes to care systems looks, feels and is like from an insider perspective. This paper considers attempts to influence practice and policy from the perspectives of 15 care experienced people who had been involved in substantive public campaign work relating to children in state care and care leavers in Scotland and England. Participants shared their experiences of working to influence change and highlighted good and bad practice that they had encountered working with different individuals and organisations claiming to promote the views of those with lived experience. The paper highlights the motivations, costs, barriers and facilitators for care experienced campaigners working to improve care systems. It concludes by sharing good practice to ensure that participation is properly appreciated, valued, and ethically informed.

Special section introduction: epistemic politics in international and comparative political economy

ABSTRACT Economic orthodoxy has faced multiple challenges over recent years, ranging from the global financial crisis and economic populism to the Covid-19 pandemic and the spectre of stagflation. This has generated significant policy innovations, like quantitative easing and the furlough schemes, while heterodox economic ideas (briefly) gained notoriety. Yet these shifts have frequently been grafted onto pre-existing institutional and discursive templates, anchored by the assumption that they represent a temporary deviation from ‘normal’ equilibrium conditions. To make sense of these dynamics of crisis, change and continuity, this special section showcases an ‘epistemic politics’ approach that foregrounds the political life of economic knowledge. It is framed around three questions. What has been the role of economic knowledge and expertise in shaping policy and regulation over the past decade? To what extent have dominant economic ideas, theories and models been impacted by political conflicts and emergent issues? How have policy makers navigated economic crises and uncertainty through cognitive and discursive practices? This introductory paper sets out the ambition for the special section by defining our understanding of epistemic politics, before detailing the threefold contribution it makes to wider scholarship in IPE and CPE. It concludes with an overview of the five papers.

The Catholic Church and Its Hospitals

In this conversation from a recent episode of SoundPractice, the discussion focuses on Patricia Gabow’s book *The Catholic Church and Its Hospitals: A Marriage Made in Heaven?*. We delve into the role of bishops and Ethical and Religious Directives (ERDs) in shaping policies within the Catholic health system. We reveal surprising statistics about the reach and influence of Catholic healthcare and discuss the implications for patient care and physician understanding, especially regarding reproductive and end-of-life care. Gabow’s book also addresses considerations for the Catholic health system’s return to mission fidelity.

Ideas behind transformative innovation policy: Economists confronting missions and sustainability transition in Finland

The ideas that experts share and draw on shape policies across various spatial and temporal contexts. In this study, we use document analysis and expert interviews to examine the views and beliefs of one important group of experts, economists, on mission-oriented innovation policy and sustainability transition in Finland. As a result, we outline the epistemic landscape that for its part conditions the progress of transformative innovation policy in Finland. While sustainability scholars have been intrigued by the promises of mission-oriented thinking, our findings suggest that they should acknowledge the epistemic limits of communities of economists regarding missions and transformative innovation policy as political vehicles to advance sustainability transition.