Political Factors Research Articles

Analysis of the public political participation index for the 2024 simultaneous regional elections in West Sulawesi

This study aims to analyze the level of political participation in the upcoming 2024 Simultaneous Regional Head Elections in West Sulawesi Province. A mixed-method approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to assess the political participation index and patterns of participation behavior. The research was conducted from January to April 2024, focusing on participants aged 20 years and above, all of whom were registered voters. The target population included active voters from various districts in West Sulawesi, using stratified sampling to ensure demographic and geographic representation. The sample comprised 122 survey respondents and 15 key informants selected purposively based on their roles in the electoral process. Results indicate that political participation is projected to increase compared to previous elections, though gaps remain between districts. Districts with better access to information and local leaders’ involvement show higher participation. Factors influencing participation include: (1) demographic factors, with the 30–45 age group showing higher participation, while younger generations (under 30 years) demonstrate apathy; (2) socio-cultural factors, where traditional norms and the role of religious leaders influence voter mobilization; and (3) political factors, including trust in candidates and local issues such as infrastructure. Barriers to participation include a lack of political education, apathy due to dissatisfaction with government performance, and administrative issues. Efforts to enhance participation include community-based education and social media, although these have not been fully optimized.

Hues of Refuge: Framing Compassion and Condemnation in Refugee Portrayals Through a Political-Media Cycle of Reinforcement

Abstract This study examines biased media portrayals of refugees, focusing on the contrast between Ukrainian and MENA refugees. It proposes a “politics-media cycle of reinforcement” where political agendas influence media narratives, and vice versa. This cycle amplifies racial bias, impacting how refugees are perceived. The research employs a comparative content analysis of Western media and political rhetoric. Findings reveal a stark difference: Ukrainians are seen as deserving victims, while MENA refugees face negative stereotypes. Interviews with media professionals and analysts support these conclusions. The study exposes racialized “othering” that marginalizes specific refugee groups. It confirms a more sympathetic portrayal of Ukrainians, likely due to political and racial factors. This research highlights the need for a more balanced and empathetic approach to all refugees.

Review: Africa and Its Historical and Contemporary Diasporas

The volume Africa and Its Historical and Contemporary Diasporas, edited by Tunde Adeleke and Arno Sonderegger, is a fundamental collection that thoroughly examines various aspects of Africa’s historical and contemporary diasporas, particularly emphasizing their global significance. The authors adopt different approaches to exploring the diaspora's history and present-day challenges, covering economic, political, cultural, and religious factors related to the African continent and its diaspora.The work plays a pioneering role in shifting the concept of diaspora beyond the history of slavery and colonization, placing it within broader, modern contexts. It is particularly important for readers interested in diaspora studies, postcolonial theories, and African history, as it provides a comprehensive understanding of African identities, cultures, and communities' roles in today’s globalized world.

External Intervention in the Ethiopia-Tigray Conflict and Its Implications on Conflict Resolution and Political Stability

The Ethiopia-Tigray conflict unleashed devastating consequences on the Horn of Africa sub-region, entailing widespread humanitarian suffering and security concerns. Through a comprehensive analysis of historical, political, and socio-economic factors, this paper investigates the impact of external intervention on either exacerbating or resolving the conflict. Drawing on primary and secondary sources, including interviews, scholarly articles, and reports, this paper examines the various forms of external intervention employed during the course of the Tigray conflict. By critically assessing the effectiveness and limitations of these interventions, we provide valuable insights into their role in shaping the trajectory of the conflict. Based on the findings, this paper concludes that external intervention in the Tigray conflict has had mixed results. While certain interventions have contributed to de-escalation and the provision of humanitarian assistance, others have inadvertently fuelled tensions and perpetuated the conflict. In light of these findings, this paper recommends prioritising diplomatic efforts that include dialogue and negotiation processes, taking into account the legitimate concerns and grievances of all parties involved.

Gender Dimensions of Aguu (Socially Excluded Youth) in Gulu City, Northern Uganda

The African social philosophical sense of ‘Ubuntu’ (‘I am because we are’) and the notion ‘it takes a whole village to raise a child’ is at crossroads in the post-conflict Acholi sub-region in Northern Uganda. Society has relegated its social responsibility and moral values to bringing up children. This study fostered a gender-responsive approach to addressing the Aguu phenomenon in Gulu City. The term ‘Aguu’ does not have an accepted single definition. However, it is used to refer to a group of children and persons between the ages of 6 to 35 years who consider the street as their home and family. This makes the concept of ‘family and home’ fluid and temporal. Whereas society considers them a source of insecurity, this study views them as a ‘floating population’ who have been pulled or pushed into the streets by social, economic, and political factors. The study employed a qualitative and ethnohistorical approach, involving individual interviews, focus group discussions, participant observations, archival work, and literature review. The study perceived the Aguu as a distinct social network with a unique agency, identity and culture. The street affects the genders differently. Gender-specific vulnerabilities were evident, perpetuating their social marginalisation and exclusion. Understanding the gender dynamic and dimensions of the Aguu phenomenon is essential for crafting sustainable solutions and interventions. These interventions must be gender-responsive, addressing the unique vulnerabilities and experiences of male and female Aguu members.

The Factors Shaping Turkish Involvement in Libya: Exploring Determinants and Regional and international Interests (2010-2021)

Objectives: This study aims to identify the factors shaping intervention in Libya, including political, economic, social, and security factors that influence the decision-making process. Additionally, it aims to analyze the impact of international interventions and local dynamics on the Libyan crisis. Methods: The study employed the following methodologies to address the research topic of intervention factors in Libya: descriptive-analytical methodology, which focuses on studying the phenomena accompanying the intervention, describing them objectively and precisely by describing the phenomenon and explaining its characteristics qualitatively or quantitatively. Additionally, it utilized the theory of power, which is one of the scientific theories used to organize society, and is considered one of the theories of interest to social organizers when dealing with society. Results: The study showed that interventions in Libya have been characterized by an attempt to impose a specific political vision aimed at achieving stability through the establishment of a legitimate government capable of controlling the security situation to prevent the spread of jihadist threats to regional and international security. Conclusions: The study concludes that international interventions have led to temporary stability and the containment of the jihadist threat in the eastern region, but the security situation remains fragile, with the potential for escalation, particularly in the absence of comprehensive political solutions.

Contextualising women’s Leadership in Saudi Arabia: A Review of Significant Sociocultural, Political, Economic, and Normative Factors

This literature review examines the sociocultural, historical, and institutional factors that shape Saudi women’s leadership experiences, addressing a gap in existing research that is predominantly centered on Western contexts. While studies often focus on barriers, such as stereotypes, discrimination, and organizational bias, limited attention has been paid to the unique interplay of cultural norms, religious beliefs, and tribal affiliations that influence women's leadership in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Determining and Quantifying Urban Sprawl Drivers: A Delphi-DANP Approach

Urban sprawl poses a significant and escalating challenge in developing countries, including Iran, leading to substantial transformations in urban areas. Despite efforts to manage urban spatial development, uncontrolled urban sprawl exerts considerable pressure on resources, infrastructure, and the environment. This study aims to identify and quantify the drivers of urban sprawl and investigate their interrelationships within Iranian metropolises. To achieve this objective, the study employs a mixed-method approach, commencing with a review of the existing literature and expert surveys based on PESTEL analysis and the Delphi method. This stage identified and categorized 40 key drivers (sub-factors) into six main categories (factors): political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal. Subsequently, the DEMATEL-based Analytic Network Process (DANP) method is utilized to explore the internal interrelationships among factors and sub-factors and to determine their relative weights, offering deeper insights into their relationships and relative importance. The findings reveal a complex interplay of political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal factors driving urban sprawl in Iran. Key drivers include political fragmentation, economic competition, social preferences for suburban living, rural-to-urban migration, increasing housing demand, weak legal regulations, natural constraints, inadequate transportation infrastructure, and the impact of technological advancements. Based on these findings, the study recommends a holistic approach to sustainable urban development in Iran, emphasizing the need for stakeholder engagement, participatory decision making, legal reforms, and significant investments in public transportation infrastructure.

Factors enabling or impeding the institutionalization of climate change mitigation in municipalities: findings from a survey in Germany

ABSTRACT This paper investigates factors that enable or impede the strategic and organizational institutionalization of climate change mitigation (CCM) in municipalities in Germany. Institutionalization refers to the formalization of CCM and involves its integration into the strategies and administrative structures of municipal governments and their administrations. Empirically, we distinguish three indicators to measure strategic institutionalization, i.e. adopting a CCM plan, setting a CCM target, and compiling an inventory of CO2 emissions. To measure organizational institutionalization, we use two indicators, i.e. dedicating a budget to CCM and creating a unit dedicated to CCM. The econometric analyzes are based on an original sample of 550 municipalities with 5,000–500,000 inhabitants combined with secondary data from external databases. The findings suggest that municipalities are more likely to institutionalize CCM if they frequently exchange climate-related information with other municipalities, civil society actors, and companies (relational factor), have higher shares of votes for the Green party (political factor), and are more urbanized (structural factor). In general, similar factors are associated with the strategic and organizational institutionalization of CCM. Observed differences pertain to some structural factors. For strategic, but not for organizational institutionalization, we find some evidence that an expected higher level of environmental awareness among the local civil society is conducive.

Analysis of the Socio-Political Dimension of Madrasah Education Program in Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao

Madrasah education has played a crucial role in the educational landscape of Mindanao, Philippines, particularly for Muslim communities. Traditional Madaris provide religious instruction and support for Muslim students' cultural identity. The government has been supporting the integration of Madrasah into the mainstream through different legislations, policies, peace agreements and educational reforms. Yet, challenges still exist in providing and satisfying the academic needs of Muslim learners, especially in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. This study explored the social and political factors shaping the Madrasah educational System in the communities surrounding the Ligawasan Marsh within the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. It offered recommendations to transform the Madrasah educational system. Findings revealed that social dimensions in shaping the implementation of the Traditional Madrasah include the selective implementation of the Refined Standard Madrasah Curriculum, increasing need for a balanced education, gender disparity in Madrasah attendance, decreasing trend in the learning outcomes, multilingual instruction and the unpredictable vulnerability of these Madaris to extreme and violent ideologies. On the other hand, political dimensions consist of increasing efforts in reforming Madrasah Education, changing political leadership and landscape, absence of a standardised practice for Madrasah teachers and introducing new administrative procedures and regulations. This paper recommends a comprehensive curriculum to include peace concepts, continuing education for teachers, strategic & complementary partnerships among stakeholders of Madrasah education, monitoring and evaluation mechanisms for the learning outcomes and policy support, advocacy & communication. This is to ensure inclusive and culturally responsive policies for a sustainable future of the Muslim children in Ligawasan and areas where there are Bangsamoro learners.

Scientific Definitions and Measurements of Second-Growth, Mature, and Old-Growth Forests

Abstract We examined US scientists’ (1) use of second-growth, mature, and old-growth forest in scientific publication titles, (2) definitions of second-growth, mature, and old-growth forest, and (3) sampling methods in second-growth, mature, and old-growth forest. “Second-growth forest” (55 titles) and “mature forest” (40) experienced the most frequent use in the 2010s. “Old-growth forest” (247) had the most use in the 1990s. Definitions of second-growth forest originated from successional theory and were consistent across scientists. Definitions of mature forest lacked consensus. Definitions of old-growth forest increased in complexity as scientists integrated biological, social, and political factors. Soil was the most frequent abiotic factor measured in mature and old-growth forests. In second-growth forests it was dead organic matter. Trees were the most common life form measured in all forests. The results show that researchers would benefit from a clearer differentiation between second-growth and mature forest and a formal definition for mature forest.

The Fast Rise of Populist Radical Right Parties: Evidence from the Alliance for the Union of Romanians

Abstract How did the new Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) obtain 9% of the vote in the 2020 Romanian general elections? This article explores the fast rise of populist radical right (PRR) parties by examining the support for the AUR at the locality level in Romania during the coronavirus crisis. The AUR's discourse combined populism, nationalism and anti-masking rhetoric. The findings show great variation across the 3,181 localities, from 0% to 50% support for the AUR, and highlight the significant influence of local cultural and political factors, while economic explanations were not confirmed. The vote for the AUR was high in localities with low ethnic diversity and low voter turnout. This research underscores that national-level explanations obscure important dynamics of PRR support that take place at the subnational level. The rise of the AUR is important beyond the Romanian and European contexts and emphasizes the significance of local responses to global crises.

Equity in medical devices: a socio-technical approach

Medical devices risk reinforcing societal inequalities unless we rethink how they are designed, developed and deployed. The UK government’s recent independent review on Equity in Medical Devices highlights how biases...

Where is the Anchor? Explaining the Endurance of the American-Turkish Partnership, 1927-2024

Once considered a model partnership, the American-Turkish relationship now elicits ambivalence among scholars and policymakers, calling into question the fundamental interests and assumptions that once undergirded the relationship. Critics attribute the negative trends in the relationship to geostrategic and value-based incompatibilities, but relatively few have examined both factors longitudinally across the entire relationship. This paper does not aim to provide a grand theory of American-Turkish relations. Instead, its goal is to develop a framework illustrating the vital role that strategic, ideational, and domestic political factors have played in shaping macro-level outcomes in the partnership’s cohesion at various junctures. Overall, our paper identifies the positive role of foreign policy bureaucratic elites on both sides acting as an “invisible hand” providing an anchor for the relationship even in the absence of other commonalities. Yet, we also observe the weakening of this hand in recent times as both countries become domestically transformed.

The Foreigner Indie Video Game Community in Japan from Tokyo Indies to Bitsummit

Abstract Indie games are a relatively novel phenomenon in the Japanese video game industry. Despite a rich history of hobbyist games and dōjn communities, the development of the indie scene was hindered by social and political factors. How indie, as a genre, became prominent in Japan can be better explained by exploring the foreigner communities of indie developers. Indie communities appeared at the beginning of the 2010s as grassroots events organised by homesick foreigners. Despite linguistic barriers they built a flourishing indie scene that welcomes both Japanese and foreigners and helped create a mediator between local developers and Western markets through Bitsummit and Tokyo Indies. This article explores the involvement of foreigners in the popularization of the indie games by analyzing twelve interviews with foreigners involved in all areas of game development. It then contextualizes their experiences by introducing the role and history of Kyoto Indies, Tokyo Indies and Bitsummit and their complicated relationship with the mainstream Japanese video game industry.

Uluslararası Göçlerin Hukuki ve Ekonomik Sonuçları

Migration is the movement of people from one place to another. This phenomenon occurs for various reasons, including war, climate change, drought, and economic and political factors. It encompasses more than just the movement of people; it also includes the seasonal movement of birds, fish, and other animals. This phenomenon has persisted throughout history, including the migration of tribes in the fourth century due to drought and climate change. The economic and social dimensions of international migration have come under scrutiny. The rise of globalization has contributed to an increase in international migration, with certain countries, such as the USA, Canada, and Australia, implementing legal immigration policies motivated by economic considerations. Illegal migration from underdeveloped countries has reached substantial levels due to factors such as wars, food shortages, and climate change. This study aims to examine the causes of international human migration, the various types of migration, and the migration systems. The discussion will cover migration processes, agreements between receiving and sending countries, and the legal and economic consequences of migration. It will also address the challenges experienced by our nation as a source and destination for immigration. Migration entails challenges, but it also generates benefits in nations with the right legal frameworks and social measures. This study will cover both sociological and liberal perspectives.

Peculiarities of the procedure for preliminary investigation of a case in international criminal courts

The article examines the preliminary investigation procedure in international criminal courts, which is of paramount importance for the proper functioning of international criminal justice. It is the first stage in the investigation and prosecution of persons who have committed the most serious crimes of international significance, in particular genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. The preliminary investigation procedure is carried out before the case is transferred to the main judicial proceedings and is critically important for ensuring justice, as well as for protecting the rights of suspects and victims of these crimes. It is noted that the preliminary investigation procedure is aimed at establishing facts and evidence that indicate the presence of serious grounds for initiating a criminal case at the international level. It involves verifying information about possible international crimes and is aimed at ensuring fair and effective judicial proceedings. Since the preliminary investigation is an important stage of the criminal process, its features and procedural aspects require detailed study. One of the main bodies conducting preliminary investigations in international criminal courts is the ICC Prosecutor. It can initiate investigations through various channels, including communications from States Parties or even on its own initiative, if there are sufficient grounds to believe that crimes within the jurisdiction of the Court have been committed. At this stage, it is important to assess the sufficiency of the evidence to initiate the main proceedings, as well as to take into account political and legal factors that may influence the decision to initiate the case. The preliminary investigation covers several key aspects: gathering evidence, verifying the facts, considering potential violations of international law and resolving the issue of the Court’s jurisdiction over specific events. Cooperation with other international organizations, States and human rights structures is also an important element. When considering the specifics of the preliminary investigation, it should also be noted that at this stage it is important to take into account international and national legal norms, as well as the specific circumstances that may arise within the framework of specific crimes. In conclusion, the preliminary investigation procedure is an integral part of international criminal justice. Given the relevance of this topic, it is important to continue research and improvement of international legal standards aimed at improving this procedure, which in turn will contribute to the development of international criminal justice.

The Impact of an External Political Factor on the Law Enforcement Development

The paper examines the influence of the international factor on the development of Russian legislation and law enforcement. The author focuses on the study of unjustified changes in the courts’ approach to assessing the principle of independence and autonomy of a legal entity and their use of the so-called concept of a single economic entity (commercial enterprise). The use of this concept without taking into account the factors to which it owes its origin in England and the USA leads to a violation of the basic provisions of both corporate law and law of obligations. For example, not only the debtor is held liable for violation of the obligation — relative legal relationship, but also the third party — the interventionist, which is a single business entity (commercial enterprise). The bodies of the legal entity — the interventionist — in fact, are forced to take actions not in the interests of this organization, which directly follows from the requirements of the law, but in the interests of the creditor in the obligation. This approach radically changes the standard of conduct of entities that form the bodies of a legal entity. In addition, following the concept of a single economic entity (commercial enterprise) does not take into account the requirements of legislation in the public sphere, for example, banking, where credit organizations a priori cannot put the interests of creditors of organizations forming a single economic entity with them above the interests of their creditors (clients, depositors).

Motivations regarding continuing or terminating pregnancy in women with high-risk pregnancies: a scoping review

BackgroundThe decisions of women with high-risk pregnancies to continue or terminate a pregnancy are complex and influenced by various factors. This scoping review synthesises the qualitative literature on the underlying motivations influencing these decisions.AimThis analysis explores the underlying motivations that influence women's decisions regarding the continuation or termination of pregnancy, considering the challenges and dilemmas this population faces.MethodsThis review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute's methodology. No date restrictions were applied to the search. Titles and abstracts were screened to select original studies, and cross-checking was performed to avoid case overlap. We included studies that focused on the factors influencing women's decisions to either continue or terminate pregnancies when complications arose.ResultsEighteen studies involving women from different countries and cultural contexts were included. The review identifies four main themes driving these decisions: health considerations, religious convictions, social and political factors and ethical and moral dilemmas. Each theme interlinks to form a complex web of influences that significantly shape women's choices, illustrating how deeply personal, societal, and ethical contexts converge in these critical decisions. Significant emotional and cognitive factors, particularly hope, also play a crucial role. The findings highlight the complexity of the decision-making process and provide a deeper understanding of the personal, social, and spiritual dimensions involved.ConclusionsMultiple factors shape the complex decisions of women with high-risk pregnancies. Understanding these motivations is crucial to providing appropriate support and counselling. This review underscores the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of the diversity of factors involved and to adopt an individualized and context-sensitive approach in their practice, guiding their future actions.

Challenges in nature-based health and therapy research and critical considerations for application in musculoskeletal health

Nature-based health and therapy (NBHT) is a term incorporating a broad suite of practices that focus on engagement with the natural world and nature-rich spaces for potential physical and mental health benefits. As healthcare professions such as physiotherapy and osteopathy move away from biomedical/reductionist models of care for complex conditions towards approaches which take into account social and environmental determinants of health, NBHT may become part of clinical interventions and public health messaging. However, there are multiple challenges in aspects of NBHT research and application, from methodological issues in the primary research base, to questions of environmental injustice and access inequalities in many areas. In addition, engaging with natural environments which are vulnerable to the entwinned threats of climate change and biodiversity collapse requires consideration of the effects of ecological disturbance and the underlying anthropocentric/utilitarian view of the natural world. In this perspective, we outline a critique of NBHT literature and offer positive suggestions for how better-quality research can be conducted and implemented by focusing on local environmental, social, and political factors. We conclude by outlining a set of critical considerations that healthcare professionals might use to develop and implement NBHT programmes in their specific regional contexts.