Policy Objectives Research Articles

Industrial policy, green challenges, and international business

AbstractNation-states are designing their industrial policies increasingly to not only enhance national competitiveness, but also to simultaneously address “Green Challenges”, concerns about the natural environment that require concerted action among different actors in society, including domestic and foreign multinational enterprises (MNEs). This blending of global and national policy objectives is leading to a new wave of industrial policies in advanced economies that are informed by scholarly discourses in evolutionary economics, innovation systems, and 'wicked problems'. We discuss the implications of these sustainability-oriented industrial policies for MNEs. They operate in increasingly diverse local ecosystems shaped by local actors and local policies as we illustrate for two such ecosystems in Nordic countries: circular economy and energy transition. Many MNEs face a tension between capabilities they could use to help nations achieve their sustainability goals and incentives to protect existing rents and business models. They may thus engage pro-actively or reactively in both market and nonmarket realms in each country in which they operate. We discuss the interactions between MNEs, governments, and other actors in host countries pursuing both sustainability and competitiveness objectives, and outline how ensuing tensions create new challenges and opportunities for international business scholarship.

Technological sovereignty is a priority of the transport policy of the Russian Federation in the context of external sanctions

The technological sovereignty of our country in the face of external sanctions is impossible without a purposeful state policy in its main areas, including transport. The article considers the objectives of transport policy to achieve technological sovereignty in the transport complex in the modern geopolitical situation. The author analyzed the main documents that define the state strategy for ensuring technological sovereignty. Currently, government agencies are very effectively solving these tasks together with state corporations, in particular, together with Russian Railways. Today, the holding implements innovative partnerships, concludes international agreements on cooperation in the field of transport construction with friendly countries and is a leader in the number of certificates of state registration of software and other innovative products received. In the course of the analysis of the innovative activity of JSC «Russian Railways», the possibilities of state corporations for solving the tasks of ensuring the technological sovereignty of Russia are revealed. To do this, it is necessary to actively develop science, create the necessary institutional conditions, as well as provide state support in the field of financing priority areas and projects, forming forms of economic participation of the state in the work of transport companies on the basis of equal partnership. the author comes to the conclusion that the basis of the innovation strategy JSC «Russian Railways» today is a comprehensive program for the development of the holding and an information technology development program. The holding's experience as a state corporation shows that such business associations are largely capable and ready to solve the main tasks of ensuring the technological sovereignty of the country.

Examining the intersection of national health policy and the delivery of emergency healthcare services in the Gambia

This study examined the intersection of National Health Policy and the delivery of emergency healthcare services in The Gambia (EHCS). It evaluated the influence of The Gambia National Health Policies (2015 and 2020) on EHCS, probed the relationship between the NHP and EHCS, and identified challenges in emergency healthcare provision. A survey research design was adopted, gathering data through questionnaires. Out of a population of 1,955, (321) were chosen as the sample size based on Krejcie and Morgan's (1970) formula. Stage sampling was adopted, and proportionate to size determined respondents in each stratum while questionnaires were randomly distributed. On the challenges, findings revealed a predominantly negative perception of equipment adequacy (mean score: 2.6) and a discernible concern regarding the number of trained professionals (mean score: 2.2). Patient satisfaction was ambivalent (mean score: 2.4), while service quality improvement post-policy implementation received mixed reviews (mean score: 2.9). Hypothesis one revealed that Policy Framework and Objectives significantly improve EHCS (β = 0.832, p < 0.001), with Resource Allocation also having a positive impact (β = 0.093, p = 0.003). However, Policy Implementation and Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanisms were not significant. Hypothesis two showed a strong positive correlation (r = 0.858, p = 0.000) between NHP and EHCS. Recommendations include improving equipment adequacy, increasing training for healthcare professionals, and developing patient-centered approaches. The study concludes that National Health Policies impact emergency healthcare services in The Gambia.

Designing an Effective Minimum Wage Policy for Sustainable Development in India

The articulated objectives of the minimum wage policy in India—specifically targeting poverty alleviation, reducing income inequality, promoting gender equity, and encouraging responsible consumption—are fundamentally aligned with the broader principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These policy goals, if effectively implemented, have the potential to make substantial contributions toward the achievement of multiple SDGs, particularly those related to ending poverty (SDG 1), reducing inequalities (SDG 10), promoting gender equality (SDG 5), and ensuring decent work and economic growth (SDG 8). However, the complex structure of minimum wages in India poses several challenges to achieving these outcomes. Among these challenges, we specifically discuss partial coverage, low rates of minimum wage fixation and a high incidence of noncompliance. The limited coverage undermines the effectiveness of minimum wage policies as a tool for poverty reduction and income redistribution. Noncompliance not only denies workers their rightful earnings but also perpetuates cycles of poverty and inequality. It particularly affects vulnerable groups, such as women and rural workers, who are more likely to be employed in sectors with weak enforcement of wage standards. By surveying some recent empirical literature, we identify the significance of minimum wages in mitigating poverty, income inequality and promoting gender equality and decent work. Literature from India suggests that minimum wages if implemented with full compliance would reduce poverty by 7-10 percent and gender wage gap up to 18 percent. Further, we elaborate briefly on strengthening the minimum wages. Universalising the legal coverage of minimum wages is the first step towards an effective minimum wage policy. Fixing adequate levels of minimum wages and then revising them from time to time with inflation indexing is the next important step. Lastly we argue that enabling a conducive environment for firms; compliance is the most crucial. This paper is intended to stimulate further discussion and reflection on the vital role that minimum wage policies can play in advancing the SDGs in India. By linking minimum wages more explicitly to the SDGs, policymakers can develop more integrated and effective strategies to tackle poverty, reduce inequality, and promote sustainable economic growth. The goal is to ensure that minimum wages not only provide a safety net for workers but also contribute to broader social and economic development objectives.

The Role of State Security in Immigration Service

This study enhances the understanding of the function of state security in immigration services. The perspective of state security in national development offers a solution to the current reality of implementing public policy in immigration, which requires a transformation through a more suitable and ideal approach for each immigration officer. One aspect of this study involves strengthening an in-depth interpretation to address and understand the evolving policies, aiming to achieve complex policy objectives. This phenomenon is closely related to the fact that current government policies tend to focus on public services that prioritize public satisfaction. While community demands are urgent for the Indonesian government, implementing public services in the field of immigration involves different dimensional aspects compared to other public services. The main reason is that current immigration issues are becoming increasingly complex, necessitating the adaptation of new approaches. It is crucial to manage the complexity and diversity of factors involved in the immigration service policy process, particularly concerning state security in travel document/passport services, immigration documents, and examinations at immigration checkpoints at state borders.

Athafnafólk í opinberri stefnumótun á óvissutímum: Hvernig hugmyndin um notendastýrða persónulega aðstoð varð að veruleika á Íslandi

Þessi rannsókn leitast við að útskýra tímamótaákvörðun í þjónustu við fatlað fólk á Íslandi. Opinber stefnumótun hefur löngum einkennst af hægfara breytingum, sem gerast í smáum skrefum. Stundum bregður þó svo við að meiriháttar breytingar verða og stefnumál, sem verið hefur baráttumál hagsmunahópa um margra ára skeið, ná fram að ganga. Dagskrárkenningar leitast við að útskýra meiriháttar stefnubreytingar með því m.a. að beina athyglinni að því hvernig og hvers vegna tiltekin málefni koma til kasta stjórnvalda á hverju tíma. Bandaríski stjórnmálafræðingurinn, John W. Kingdon, setti fyrst fram kenningu sína um straumana þrjá og glugga tækifæranna fyrir rúmum 30 árum. Nýlegar rannsóknir evrópskra stjórnmálafræðinga halda því nú fram að nálgun Kingdons geti varpað ljósi á það hvernig það pólitíska kerfi sem stefnumótunin fer fram í virkar og hvernig hegðun og aðferðir þátttakenda í ferlinu hafa áhrif. Í þessari eigindlegu rannsókn er skoðað hvernig hugmyndin um notendastýrða persónulega aðstoð (NPA) varð að veruleika á Íslandi. Rannsóknin byggir á fyrirliggjandi gögnum og viðtölum við lykilfólk um þá framvindu mála sem leiddi til ákvörðunar um að innleiða NPA hér á landi. Rannsóknin lýsir því hvernig og undir hvaða kringumstæðum NPA komst á dagskrá stjórnvalda. Niðurstöðurnar sýna hvernig breytingar á verkaskiptingu milli ríkis og sveitarfélaga gáfu tækifæri fyrir nýja hugmyndafræði sem nýttist bæði notendum, viðskiptahagsmunum og pólitískum hagsmunum. Niðurstöðurnar benda til þess að þar hafi ekki aðeins verið réttur maður á réttum stað á réttum tíma, heldur varpa þær fræðilegu ljósi á það hvað einkennir athafnafólk í opinberri stefnumótun og hvernig og hvers vegna það skiptir máli á óvissutímum í stjórnmálum.

Contract award criteria in public procurement procedures – The possibility of improving the situation of society from the perspective of the European Union and Poland

Background Public tenders are vital for a country’s GDP and citizens’ quality of life, enabling public administration to achieve various goals. Developing and developed countries allocate over 10% of their GDP to public procurement. This highlights the significant societal support public tenders can provide, making it important to consider how they can further benefit society. Policy and implications Public procurement can achieve policy objectives and benefit society by selecting tenders based on criteria beyond price, such as economic advantage and social benefits. This approach, endorsed by EU directives since 2014, encourages innovation and socially responsible practices. Contracting authorities in the EU can use social, environmental, and qualitative criteria to determine the most advantageous offers. Poland’s Public Procurement Law (PPL) allows contract award criteria based on quality and price, including social aspects. Contracting authorities can specify criteria like employing marginalized groups, though these criteria often face scrutiny and legal challenges. Non-price criteria aim to enhance competition and achieve social, environmental, and economic goals. Recommendations EU and Polish laws permit and encourage using social aspects as contract award criteria in public procurement. However, contracting authorities must analyze priorities, risk balancing, time constraints, and departmental coordination to effectively implement these criteria. This approach can improve the social situation and support specific groups. Conclusions Public procurement significantly influences a country’s economy and quality of life, with EU and Polish laws allowing social criteria in contract awards. Directive 2014/24/EU supports tenders based on economic and social benefits. Poland’s PPL aligns with this, emphasizing marginalized group employment. Effective implementation fosters job creation, social integration, and improved living standards.

МОЖНО ЛИ РЕФОРМИРОВАТЬ ТЕАТР? АВСТРИЙСКИЕ ФЕДЕРАЛЬНЫЕ ТЕАТРЫ КАК ОБЪЕКТ КУЛЬТУРНОЙ ПОЛИТИКИ С 1945 Г.

В данной статье Австрийские Федеральные театры анализируются как важнейший объект в культурной политике и экономике Второй республики. Долголетие этого театрального конгломерата скорее объясняется зависимостью от траектории и доминирующими моделями мышления в бюрократии, культурной среде и обществе Австрии чем настоящей борьбой за экономическую эффективность. Австрийское экономическое чудо способствовало благожелательному отношению «государства-патрона» к Федеральным театрам, однако растущий дефицит потребовал структурных реформ в неолиберальном ключе во время подготовки вступления Австрии в Европейский союз. Вместе с тем реформы 1971 и 1998 г. не переломили существующих практик театрального менеджмента и не привели к значительному улучшению экономических показателей, что подтверждает тезис о превалировании долгосрочных тенденций в развитии театров, преобладающей роли культурного капитала и способности театров успешно нейтрализовать реформы извне. In this paper, the Austrian Federal Theatres are analyzed as the most important object of Austrian cultural policies in the Second Republic. The longevity of this theatre conglomerate is better explained by path dependence and predominant patterns of thinking within Austria’s bureaucracy, cultural milieu and society than as a genuine strife for economic efficiency. The Austrian economic miracle contributed to a benevolent stance of the “patron state” towards the Federal Theatres, yet growing deficits called for structural reforms in a neoliberal key during the preparatory stages of Austria’s accession to the European Union. However, the 1971 and 1998 reforms did not break with the existing practices of theatre management and did not lead to a significant improvement of economic figures confirming the thesis that long-term tendencies in theatre development prevailed, cultural capital played a dominant role, and theatres have been capable to successfully neutralize external reforms.

Counterterrorism in Ethiopia: source of threat or security to the people?

ABSTRACT The objective of the counterterrorism policies of Ethiopia as reflected in the anti-terrorist proclamations was to protect the right of people to live in peace, freedom and security at all times from the threat of terrorism. However, in practice, the counterterrorism policies followed the designation of opposition political forces as terrorist organisations and unprecedented crackdown on political opposition and critical voices. Therefore, this emancipatory study examines the theory and practice of Ethiopia’s counterterrorism policies with the objective to unravel its political use and abuse, and hence demystify its security referent. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews, and the analysis of the anti-terrorist proclamations, explanatory notes, speeches, terrorism files and records, and reports of international human rights organisations. The analysis revealed that counterterrorism in Ethiopia remains the source of threat rather than security to the people in the country.

Strategic priorities of regional economic development in the context of regulating non-monetary factors of inflation

A vast array of research works concentrates on such aspects of inflation processes as their essence, development factors, anti-inflationary regulation, etc., but precious few of them attempt to identify the factors of inflation in the strategic priorities of regional development. At the same time, economics and state policy at both national and regional levels recognise the significant effect of inflation on economic development. The paper deals with non-monetary factors of inflation in regions and develops a path for formulating regional policy on their regulation. The theories of regional economic development and inflation constitute the methodological framework of the study. The research methods include systematization, functional and comparative analysis, deduction. We identify the provisions of the socio-economic development strategies of the Ural macroregion’s member territories relating to the regulation of non-monetary factors in the development of inflationary processes. The identified aspects of inflation reflect the impact of its non-monetary factors on regional economic development and require anti-inflationary policy to be coupled with the areas of activity of regional authorities. We present a conceptual-logical model for framing regional policy on regulating non-monetary factors of inflation in an RF subject specifying the strategic priorities of economic development that influence regional factors of inflation. The model demonstrates that it is the state programmes of Russia’s constituent entities that are the main tool for regulating non-monetary factors of inflation in the regional government system. It coordinates price regulation measures in the regions with the goals and objectives of policy aimed at developing their economies. The findings contribute to the understanding of regional inflation factors and can be used by regional authorities when executing socio-economic development strategies.

Digital Diplomacy and Its Impacts on Uzbekistan’s International Relations

This paper investigates the role of digital technologies in Uzbekistan’s diplomatic activities, emphasizing innovation strategies, project support, personnel training, and the development of digital platforms. It explores the concept of digital diplomacy, focusing on the use of digital media in diplomacy and how countries utilize these media to achieve their foreign policy objectives. The study delves into the opportunities and challenges presented by digital media for diplomatic activities, highlighting the necessity for countries to actively engage in digital diplomacy and keep abreast of emerging trends in this field. The article emphasizes the importance of digital diplomacy not only as a new tool but also as a factor that transforms general diplomatic strategies. By examining Uzbekistan’s efforts in integrating digital technologies into its diplomatic strategies, this research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how digitalization is shaping contemporary diplomacy. It underscores the importance of technological advancement and digital literacy for diplomatic personnel to navigate the complex landscape of global information integration. Through a comprehensive analysis, the paper presents evidence supporting the active implementation of digital diplomacy by nations and discusses the implications for future diplomatic practices. The findings reveal that digital diplomacy not only enhances the efficiency and reach of diplomatic efforts but also poses certain challenges that need to be addressed to maximize its potential. Overall, the research provides valuable insights into the dynamic intersection of digital innovation and diplomatic strategy in the context of Uzbekistan’s international relations.

Sustainable finance, water governance, and water policy objectives in Ontario municipalities

ABSTRACT Sustainable finance is an important part of the water governance landscape that has not received sufficient attention in the water governance and policy literature. In this paper, we approach sustainable finance as a ‘non-water’ factor that influences water governance situations. Two key water policy objectives in Ontario municipalities provide the focus: water system financial sustainability, and industrial water use reduction. We find that sustainable finance as a sector has significant potential to drive future decision-making around water in municipalities in the context of chronic underfunding and the transition to low-carbon economies.

Implementation and Effectiveness of Policies and Initiatives Promoting Girls' Academic Performance in Wajir County, Kenya

Purpose: Policy implementation and effectiveness in girls' education are crucial for advancing gender equality, and promoting social and economic development. Despite global efforts to promote gender equality in education, girls in Wajir face minimal enrolment, high dropout rates, and low academic performance. The study aimed to evaluate the implementation and effectiveness of policies and initiatives promoting girls' academic performance in Wajir County, Kenya. Methodology: The research adopted a descriptive research design to gather quantitative and qualitative data. The target population was 12,060 respondents comprised of 80 Principals, 274 teachers, and 11,704 students from Wajir County, public secondary schools. A study sample size of 388 was calculated using the Yamane method and was sampled using purposive, simple, and stratified random sampling. Data was collected using questionnaires for all respondents. Quantitative data was cleaned, coded, and analyzed descriptively and inferentially with SPSS. Descriptive statistics, including frequency and percentages, as well as mean and standard deviation, were used to describe the relationship between the study variables, while inferential analysis was based on the chi-square test. Results: The study found mixed perceptions regarding the implementation and effectiveness of educational policies and initiatives aimed at improving girls' education in Wajir County. While there is a consensus on the clarity of policy objectives, concerns remain about their relevance and effectiveness in addressing the specific needs of girls. Principals, in particular, expressed skepticism about the alignment of policies with improving academic performance. Conclusion: The study concludes that targeted interventions, improved resource allocation, and enhanced stakeholder collaboration are critical to overcoming the barriers faced by girls in education. The study recommends that there should be more communal support from stakeholders towards implementing the policies that reduce the socio-cultural barriers that affect girls’ education in ASAL regions.

New Evidence of the Impact of the National Drug Price Negotiation Policy on the Availability, Utilization, and Cost of Anticancer Medicines in China: An Interrupted Time Series Study.

The increasing global burden of cancer has become a significant challenge for public health. The Chinese government introduced the National Drug Price Negotiation (NDPN) policy with the goal of lowering the prices of innovative drugs and enhancing their accessibility. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the 2021 NDPN policy on the availability, utilization, and cost of anticancer medicines in China. Data was gathered from 1519hospitals between April 2021 and December 2022, with a focus on eight anticancer drugs affected by the 2021 NDPN policy. The availability, Defined Daily Doses (DDDs), and cost per Defined Daily Dose (DDDc) before and after the intervention were evaluated through interrupted time series analysis. The NDPN policy resulted in a substantial 5.10% increase in the availability of anticancer drugs (p < 0.001). Utilization also experienced a significant surge, with an immediate increase of 11,254.36 DDDs (p < 0.001) and a monthly increase of 1208.28 DDDs (p < 0.001) following policy implementation. The DDDc decreased by US$ 111.00 (p < 0.001) immediately after the policy. Disparities in regional drug utilization were evident, with higher usage in the eastern region. The 2021 NDPN policy has notably enhanced the availability and utilization of anticancer medications in China while reducing their cost, in line with the policy's objectives. However, continuous monitoring is essential to ensure sustained access and to tackle regional disparities in drug utilization.

Điều kiện thúc đẩy sự ra đời tiền kỹ thuật số của Ngân hàng Trung ương: Đề xuất khung khổ lý thuyết hai giai đoạn

In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) emerges as a novel form of fiat currency, exerting diverse influences on the monetary system, market dynamics, and the entire economy. By synthesizing existing literature through comparative analysis and theoretical evaluation, this study presents a novel framework outlining the preconditions for CBDC successful implementation and widespread adoption. They are categorized into two phases: (i) Phase 1 encompasses four prerequisite conditions, namely: clear policy objectives, a robust legislative framework, broad stakeholder engagement, and sound technological capabilities; (ii) Phase 2 addresses the critical challenge of market feasibility, mirrored through end-user acceptance of CBDC. Our proposed two-phase theoretical model serves as a valuable guide for central banks in formulating policies and plans, aiding commercial banks in implementing CBDC related technical solutions and infrastructure, and fostering awareness among end users, both individuals and businesses.

Estimating the impact of wildlife damage compensation policy on farmers’ incomes

At present, the conflict between humans and wildlife in China is becoming more serious, and the wildlife damage compensation policy, as an important part of the ecological compensation system, has become an important means to alleviate the contradiction between wildlife protection and farm household development. This study empirically examines the mechanism of action and analyses the impact of the pilot wildlife damage compensation policy on farmers’ incomes, using Chinese provincial panel data from 2004 to 2021, and employing synthetic control methods, double difference models and moderated effects models. The results show that: (1) At the provincial level, the wildlife damage compensation policy can significantly increase farmers’ income by 16.7 %, which has been validated through a series of robustness tests. (2) Further analysis using micro-survey data shows that the wildlife compensation policy significantly increases farmers’ income by 22.5 %. (3) Mechanism analysis reveals that the wildlife damage compensation policy can increase rural agricultural employment by 4.3 %, thereby increasing farmers’ income. (4) Heterogeneity analyses indicate that wildlife damage compensation policy has different effects on farmers’ income. Among these, the impact on low-income farmers is more pronounced. Understanding the impact and heterogeneity of wildlife damage compensation policy on farmers’ income can facilitate the design of targeted compensation policies to address the mismatch between conservation and development, thereby achieving the policy objective of promoting a symbiotic coexistence between wildlife conservation and farmers’ economic interests.

Analyzing Foreign Policy: the Dynamics of U.S., Türkiye, and Israel's Engagement in Syria

This paper examines the foreign policy strategies and motivations of the United States, Turkey, and Israel in relation to Syria, providing a nuanced comprehension of the intricate geopolitical landscape. The research employs a qualitative-descriptive methodology to analyze the strategic objectives and actions of these nations, relying on secondary data from scholastic articles and reports. The analysis encompasses the Syrian conflict from 2011 to the present, emphasizing critical variables including national security interests, geopolitical ambitions, and humanitarian considerations. Significant implications for international relations and regional stability are revealed by the findings, which indicate that policy objectives are distinct yet overlapping.

Determinants of Private Consumption Expenditure in Australia: ARDL Study

This paper studies the relationship among non-public intake expenditure and independent variables that encompass GDP, population number, interest price, and inflation price in Australia at some point of the duration from 1960 to 2022using the Autoregressive disbursed Lag version (ARDL). The studies additionally ambitions to take a look at the impact of displacement among non-public intake spending and government consumption spending using a model (ARDL). The have a look at determined that there may be an advantageous and enormous dating between personal intake spending and each output and populace in the end. Ultimately, a 1% growth in GDP is related to a zero.8% boom in private consumption pending, and a 1% boom in populace is associated with a zero.3% increase in private consumption spending. However, there is an inverse and tremendous dating among private consumption spending and both interest rate and government consumer spending in the long run. Ultimately, a 1% boom in the interest rate is associated with a 0.2% lower in private consumption spending, and a 1% growth inside the inflation rate is related to a 0.1% lower in private consumption spending. Inside the quick term, there's a high-quality and substantial dating between private consumption spending and both output and population. Within the short term, a 1% increase in GDP is associated with a zero.6% growth in private consumer spending, and a 1% increase in population is associated with a 0.2% growth in private consumer spending. However, there is an inverse dating among private consumer spending and short-time period interest rate, within the quick term, a 1% increase within the interest price is related to a 0.1% decrease in private consumer spending. The findings of this study advise that the imperative financial institution can use financial coverage equipment order to persuade the intermediate objective of monetary policy and have an effect private consumer spending and aggregate demand. Taxes can also be used as one of the fiscal coverage gear to persuade disposable income which will change private client spending and combination demand.

Comparative Analysis of the Budget of Sri Lanka and the State Budget of Punjab, India

This research paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the national budget of Sri Lanka and the state budget of Punjab, India. By examining the structure, revenue sources, expenditure patterns, fiscal deficits, and socio-economic priorities of both regions, this paper aims to highlight the differences and similarities in budgetary approaches and their implications for economic development and public welfare. The comparison sheds light on how a sovereign nation and a state within a federal structure allocate their financial resources to achieve their policy objectives. This paper also includes a statistical analysis of key budgetary figures to provide deeper insights into their fiscal health and management.

Regioning mission-oriented innovation policy: The articulation of directionality between federal and regional arenas in the German High-Tech Strategy

Mission-oriented innovation policies (MOIP) do not operate in a vacuum. How missions align with innovation actors, infrastructures and discourses in regional contexts is an ongoing discussion. In this paper, we draw on the case of regional dialogues that aspired to facilitate exchange and learning for the missions of Germany's High-Tech Strategy (HTS). We examine the interactional process of 'regioning' MOIP that draws in diverse publics and concerns, ultimately aiming to create institutional arenas where actors from different levels and scales come together to make sense of missions. More than being explicit objects of innovation policy, regions understood through regioning are an implicit practice of policy. By moving missions between federal and regional arenas, involved actors shape a political space for articulating the directionality of innovation policy.