Political Stability Research Articles

Abundance of Natural Resources: Influence on Economic Growth in ASEAN Countries

ASEAN's GDP growth reached 3 trillion USD, with intra-ASEAN trade reaching 590.4 billion USD. ASEAN is projected to become the world's fourth-largest economy by 2050, and over the past few years has shown rapid economic growth. This study aims to analyze the waste of resources that affect the economic growth of ASEAN countries sourced from the export value of natural resources of fuel, natural resources of ore and minerals, natural resources of agriculture, and natural resources of food. Using a quantitative descriptive research approach, using secondary data in the form of panel data for the period 2001-2020 obtained from 10 countries in ASEAN. Data analysis technique using panel data regression, selected model random effect model using Eviews 12 software. The results of this study show that the abundance of natural resources of ores and minerals has a significant effect on economic growth in ASEAN countries with a positive relationship direction, while agricultural natural resource variables have a significant influence on economic growth with a negative relationship direction. This is due to dependence on agricultural natural resources, market instability, technological and infrastructure limitations, climate change vulnerability, and political instability, thus causing loss of added value, dependence on export markets and development on the agricultural industry, which causes obstacles to economic growth which ultimately hinders economic growth to develop optimally.

Analysis of the Spatial Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Large-Scale Land Acquisition Projects in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is an essential region for companies carrying out large-scale land acquisitions (LSLAs). Exploring the distribution patterns and influencing factors of LSLA projects in this region is of great practical significance for summarizing the characteristics of LSLA projects in Southeast Asia, for gaining a thorough understanding of LSLA project development rules, and for formulating reasonable policies to guide local LSLA projects. This study explores the spatial distribution and influencing factors of LSLA projects in Southeast Asia using the mean center method, the kernel density estimation method, and the grey correlation method. The findings indicate the following: Firstly, the majority of LSLA projects in Southeast Asia are located in the Indo-China Peninsula, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and other countries, which represent significant regions of interest for LSLA projects in this region. Secondly, the spatial distribution of LSLA intention projects and LSLA contract projects in Southeast Asia is similar, whereas LSLA production projects differ from the former two. Thirdly, the scale of LSLA projects in Southeast Asia is closely related to the host country’s natural resources, socio-economic conditions, governance, and market environment. The total GDP, per capita arable land area, net foreign direct investment inflow, and political stability have been identified as exerting a significant influence on investment corporations’ selection of LSLA host countries.

Determinants of foreign exchange reserves in sub-saharan Africa

Driven by the lack of literature on the nature of the association between foreign exchange reserves and institutions for Sub-Saharan Africa, this study examines the determinants of foreign exchange reserves in 19 Sub-Saharan African countries over the period 2000–2019. The study applies the panel autoregressive distributed lag methodology. The empirical discussion considers the role of the institution and its effect on the flow of foreign exchange reserves across the selected countries. Results from the empirical analysis indicate that the main determinants of foreign exchange reserves in Sub-Saharan Africa are trade openness, broad money to GDP, CPI, and exchange rate. Strikingly, we find that of institution, political stability and absence of terrorism, government effectiveness, control of corruption and voice and accountability significantly affect reserves in the long run, while control of corruption and regulatory quality negatively affect reserves in the short run. The implication of these findings is that policymakers must have a keen awareness of both institutional factors and other macroeconomic phenomena.

Dynamics of Power: Analyzing Political Shifts in Latin America

This paper explores the intricate political landscape of Latin America, analyzing the region's historical evolution, contemporary challenges, and emerging trends. It examines how colonial legacies, socio-economic disparities, and external influences have shaped political institutions and governance across Latin American countries. The study also investigates the rise of populism, shifting political alliances, and the impact of globalization on national politics. By integrating historical context with current events, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the forces driving political change and stability in Latin America, offering insights into both regional dynamics and broader implications for international relations.

Discounted monetary value of human lives lost during the mass demonstrations in Khartoum State, Sudan, 2022

BACKGROUND: Sudan is rich in natural resources and diverse climate but faces significant food insecurity. The country’s challenges stem from prolonged civil wars and economic decline after South Sudan’s secession, leading to political instability and uprisings. The human cost has been devastating, with millions killed or affected by violence, displacement, and infrastructure destruction. OBJECTIVE: This paper aimed to estimate the total discounted value of 112 human lives lost during peaceful demonstrations in Khartoum State in 2022. METHODS: Data collected by the Doctors’ Committee from Oct 2021 to Oct 2023 was used. The Human Capital approach (HCA) estimated the total discounted value of human lives lost using a 3% discount rate and the national life expectancy in 2022 as 65.86. Sensitivity analysis tested the robustness of the results. The model was re-estimated using 5% and 10% discount rates and global and Sub-Saharan life expectancies. RESULTS: Human lives lost had a total discounted value of $1,871,745 and an average value of $136,816 per life. Recalculating the total discounted value of human lives lost (TDVHL) using higher rates, 5% and 10%, reduced the values by $499,516 (26.7%) and $1,094,609 (58.5%), respectively. Using Sub-Saharan life expectancy reduced the TDVHL by $105,821 (5.7%), while the global life expectancy increased it by $130,992 (7.0%). About 82% of the TDVHL was shared by dead persons aged 15-29. The average value per dead person decreased with age. The average for the 14-19 age group was almost four times that of the 55-59 group. CONCLUSION: The study reveals the high economic cost of premature deaths from mass demonstrations in Khartoum State, stressing the need for policies protecting young people and promoting stability to drive economic growth and sustainable development KEYWORDS: Human Capital Approach, Life expectancy, Dead persons, Mass demonstrations, Sensitivity analysis, Total discounted value of human lives lost

Class grievances before and after the Arab uprisings

To date, analysis of the role of entrepreneurs in the Arab uprisings has been limited. We use micro-level World Bank survey data collected from Arab entrepreneurs in the manufacturing and service sectors across a range of countries to highlight entrepreneur grievances as one proxy for the role that class might have played in the Arab uprisings. We find evidence that dissatisfaction with levels of corruption was particularly high among entrepreneurs in Egypt, Syria and Yemen on the eve of the Arab uprisings, but we also find that Arab entrepreneurs throughout the region share concerns when it comes to macroeconomic and political stability, infrastructural shortcomings and worker training, all of which are key to successful development. More recent data indicate that entrepreneurs in a number of countries (some of which had regime changes, while others did not) remain concerned about the same factors. Although they varied according to size and country, entrepreneur concerns at times went against pre-conceptions concerning Arab capitalist classes and were at odds with the recommendations of international financial institutions.

Análisis de la dependencia petrolera en Ecuador periodo 2018-2022

Evidence of oil dependence in the Ecuadorian economy persists despite efforts to diversify the productive matrix. Obstacles in terms of investment, technology, and political and economic stability have hindered progress in this documentary direction and an analysis of secondary data. The present study aims to analyze oil dependence in Ecuador during the period 2018-2022. For this purpose, a documentary research methodology and an analysis of secondary data were used. The results indicate that, during this period, the Ecuadorian oil sector has faced a series of challenges that have limited its production and refining capacity. Factors such as operational problems, infrastructure limitations, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic have contributed to a decline in crude oil production, which has had a negative effect on the country's revenues and its competitive position in the global market. In addition, this article highlights the need for Ecuador to implement comprehensive strategies to reduce its dependence on oil, diversify its sources of income, and promote more sustainable long-term economic development.

Confronting Extremism and Radicalisation in Afghanistan: Educative Approach

Extremism and radicalisation are not a new phenomenon in Afghanistan. Since the end of Soviet occupation in 1989, Afghanistan underwent several phases of challenges, either in the form of political instability, economic crisis, civil war, or foreign intervention due to geopolitical interests. One of the most challenging problems that Afghanistan has been facing is the threat of extremism and radicalisation resulting from multivariate factors. Extremist ideologies such as Salafi-jihadism, the presence of radical ideologues, and foreign intervention inside Afghanistan has intensified the challenge of extremism and radicalisation. In light of this reality, this article seeks to analyse how the government of Afghanistan deals with the problem of extremism and radicalisation in their midst through an educative approach or educational programs that they implement in higher learning institutions. Specifically, this article seeks to examine to what extent the implementation of a nation-building module known as ‘The Islamic Moral System Module (I.M.S.M.) has been effective in mitigating the problem of extremism, radicalisation and, at the same time, nation-building in post-war Afghanistan. Using mixed methods, the article looks into the implementation of IMSM on undergraduate students at Balkh University in Afghanistan between 2017 and 2020. The implementation of the IMSM module indicates that the educative approach produced positive results in nation-building. However, the educative approach needs to be tailored according to the nature of the challenge and context of the historical background of the country.

Regional (economic) integration, political stability uncertainty and (intra-African) exports

The economic literature reports ambiguous effects of regional economic integration (REI) and political stability on exports. Therefore, this research analyzes the effects of REI and political stability on intra-African exports, compares them to the effects on intra-African imports and explores the combined effect of REI and political stability on intra-African exports. We use the two-stage least squares and fixed-effects approach which includes the two-step feasible generalized method of moments (GMM) estimation to address endogeneity issues in a panel of 49 African countries over the period of 1996–2022. The results show that REI and political stability lead to an increase in intra-African exports. However, while REI results in an increase in intra-African imports, political stability results in a decrease; similar findings are highlighted for overall intra-African trade as well as for total exports of goods and services. The results remain robust across diverse estimation techniques. Furthermore, they reveal that political stability plays a role in amplifying the relationship between REI and intra-African exports. Supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area agenda, these findings imply that African policymakers need to (i) strengthen REI to increase intra-African trade and (ii) improve political stability to ensure that a greater part of REI is canalized in a more effective way in order to boost intra-African exports.

Decolonization and Democratization in African Countries: The Impact of Liberal Democracy on Political Stability

Since the 1990s, the African continent has experienced dramatic changes in the political sphere. Specifically, as mentioned by Samuel Huntington in The Third Wave: Democratization in the Late Twentieth Century, many Sub-Saharan African countries have undergone democratic transitions, marked by reforms from one-party systems or military rule to multiparty systems with regular elections, a process that prominently features characteristics of Western-style liberal democracy. Despite the fact that African countries employing Western-style democracy have made certain progress in political development and social governance, many African countries that have undergone this political transformation exhibit a lack of political stability. As such, this article studies the development of liberal democracy and political stability in Kenya against the backdrop of the third wave of democratization. Through analyzing the historical and socio-economic contexts of African countries, it argues that the winner-take-all logic of the western representative democracy contradicts with the cultural tradition in African countries, which emphasizes social consensus and consultation. Considering the historical problems left since the colonial era, it adds to the difficulty of applying the western democracy in contemporary African countries, and thus results in the incompatibility between the liberal democracy model and the reality of African social contexts. Consequently, it is argued that the democratization process in Africa requires further exploration and more appropriate combination of advanced political institutions and the local contexts.

Restructuring Religious Education for Development Sustainability in the 21st Century Nigeria

The importance of education to national development and growth especially in Nigeria cannot be overlooked. It plays vital roles in the resources essential for societal growth and it should be noted that these resources include human resources as individuals are responsible for nation building. Education comprises basic knowledge and skills required for sustainable living. These knowledge and skills constitute moral values and codes which are learnt through religious education. Hence, religious education remains vital and relevant particularly in the 21st century Nigeria. In the 21st century, religious education in Nigeria continues to experience problems ranging from the implementation of irrational educational policies by the constituted authorities particularly against educational system, poor funding, mismanagement and misappropriation, political instability, bad governance, just to mention a few. It is not a dispute that these lingering issues have indented the place of religious education and its values in the educational system which has been debased. Nevertheless, acquiring quality education should be measured on global standards, such that the acquired knowledge could match up with the global scale. Therefore, it is crucial to revisit and reconstruct religious education particularly to conform to the 21st century Nigerian society. This is to attain a stable and life - long relevance within the Nigerian educational system. It is a qualitative discourse and it engages primary and secondary sources of data information, it adopts the functional theory which spells out the functions of religious education to the national development particularly in the 21st century as well as the theory of relevance which reflects the relevance of religious education as tool to instill morals and mould individuals into good and patriotic citizens. It includes discussions on the challenges militating against religious education in the 21st century. The relevance of religious education at this era, and recommended suggestable strategies to sustain its relevance further into the future.

Factors affecting the adoption of air pollution control measures across firms in India

Air pollution control has emerged as one of the key concerns of recent times and business firms are one of the significant stakeholders in deteriorating the quality of the natural environment. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the factors affecting the adoption of air pollution control measures across firms and contribute to the existing knowledge on pollution control among firms in the context of an emerging market. The analysis shows a significant association between enterprise characteristics and the adoption of air pollution control measures and about 44.3 percent firms have reported the adoption of air pollution control measures. Further, the marginal effect analysis indicates that firms older in age, larger in size and having shareholders’ equity are more likely to adopt air pollution control measures. Similarly, firms practising lean operations, investing in research & development, availing bank credit, having quality certification and having better capacity utilisation are more likely to adopt air pollution control measures. Finally, firms perceiving obstacles related to business licensing & permits, tax administration, political instability, and business closure due to COVID-19 outbreak are more likely to adopt air pollution control measures. Our study provides useful implications for managers, policymakers and researchers for encouraging air pollution control technologies across business firms. The study also motivates undertaking future research on pollution control measures across various sectors of the economy.

Social‐ecological systems modeling for drought‐food security nexus

AbstractDroughts pose severe threats to social systems, particularly to food security which is one of the priority targets in the UN's sustainable development goals (SDG 2). The drought‐food insecurity nexus entails the complex social‐ecological systems (SES) relationships (e.g., feedback) that underpin food insecurity, leading to disastrous consequence to society. To advance the knowledge on capturing the SES relationships of the drought‐food insecurity nexus, an SES model was employed (first attempt) to simulate these relationships to inform policies on food security in the context of climate change in Bangladesh. Different “what if” scenarios were examined determining the possible future trajectories of the system under socio‐economic and climate scenarios. Findings revealed that (i) with business‐as‐usual scenario, crop production and food security continue to increase at the expense of declining water resources over the simulation period; (ii) temperature changes (3.5–5.7°C) and surface water reduction due to dam and sustained groundwater decline may reduce food security (~55%); (iii) tipping risk increases due to severe reduction of food security when increasing temperature (>3.5°C) is combined with upstream water withdrawal (30%–50%), subsidy reduction (50%–100%), population growth and political instability. These indicate the need for an SES system perspective for increasing crop production and food security, simultaneously ensuring sustainable water resources and climate change adaptation. The model and findings are useful to achieve food security, and other related SDGs (1&6) in the context of climate change in Bangladesh and similar areas (e.g., Kenya), informed by the consequences of plausible alternative futures.

The state and the development of business organisations in Benin, ca. 1440–1897

Abstract The focus of this paper is on business organisations in Benin and their interplay with the state from the era of Oba Ewuare up to the fall of the Kingdom in 1897. The paper analyses economic nationalism in the kingdom and the roles in the protection and development of identified business groups during the period. Knowledge of business organisations in pre-British Benin and their relationship with the state, which aided their development between ca. 1440 and 1897 is a vacuum in the study of African business organisations and will be useful in understanding economic nationalism from an African perspective. The study adopts the historical method and requires a multidisciplinary approach for interpretation and reliability. As such, both primary and secondary sources were utilised, and the findings confirm that several business organisations in manufacturing, trading and in large scale crop farming existed. The work provides insights into the entrepreneurs, composition and operations of these businesses. The findings also reveal how trading and industrial activities were controlled and what implications this had for the development of these businesses and the state. The work shows in addition how these businesses benefited from the security and licences granted by the state as well as how the state used these businesses to mount up economic power and political stability.

A Comprehensive Review of Malaria Control Strategies in Africa: Historical Perspectives, Policy Frameworks, Innovations, and Future Directions

Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Africa, affecting children under five and pregnant women. Historically, malaria has impacted Africa from ancient Egyptian times to the colonial era, with early control efforts often thwarted by limited resources and political instability. Today, Africa accounts for approximately 94% of global malaria cases and deaths, primarily affecting children under five and pregnant women. Despite progress in some regions, challenges such as financial constraints, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the need for robust community engagement persist. This review evaluates the role of African governments and regional bodies in malaria control, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive policy frameworks, effective governance, and well-structured National Malaria Control Programs. Innovative strategies and technologies, such as malaria vaccines, genetically modified mosquitoes, and digital tools, offer new avenues for malaria control. However, challenges in implementation, funding, and acceptance need addressing. Strengthening healthcare infrastructure, capacity building, community health workers, and public awareness campaigns are crucial for malaria control. Ongoing research and development are essential for advancing malaria control efforts, and indigenous knowledge and local innovations should complement modern approaches for culturally sensitive interventions. In conclusion, achieving a malaria-free Africa demands a multifaceted approach involving historical insights, innovative strategies, strengthened healthcare systems, community engagement, sustainable funding, and continuous research. The collective efforts of governments, international partners, researchers, and communities are pivotal in overcoming malaria and securing a healthier future for millions across the continent. Keywords: Malaria, Africa: Historical Perspectives, Policy Frameworks, Innovations, Future Directions

Democratic Socialism of BP and its Imperatives in Nepal's Politics and Development: A Critical Outlook

This paper explores Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala’s interpretation of democratic socialism and its influence on Nepal’s political and developmental trajectory. Adopting a review-based methodology within a critical framework, the research delves into BP’s principles of democratic socialism, which aim to blend democratic governance with social fairness and economic equity. The study evaluates how these principles were reflected in development policies during the Nepali Congress leadership, noting both positive outcomes and limitations. Additionally, it addresses the substantial obstacles encountered in applying democratic socialism in Nepal, such as political instability, leadership crisis, economic constraints, and societal challenges. In conclusion, the paper assesses the ongoing significance and future prospects of democratic socialism in Nepal, advocating for its effective theorization and application through development strategies centered on the people, improved governance practices, and reinforced institutional structures to promote political morality and sustainable development.

Does Privatization improve Corporate Governance and Profitability? Evidence from Cement Company of Northern Nigeria

The paper study how Privatization improves Corporate Governance and Profitability of Cement Company of Northern Nigeria. Data was collected from secondary sources, and the statistical tools employed in the Methodology were descriptive statistics and OLS regressions. The study aimed at bridging literature gap on studies that relate corporate governance and privatization policy in Nigeria. The results suggest that, The result suggest that, the company has lower market capitalization, private sector and foreign investors have concentrated ownership, bigger board size, lower percentage of executive directors and higher percentage of non-executive directors, Board chairmen were not the chief executives and chairmen audit committees were non-executive directors, lower workforce, higher percentage of management staff small percentage of non-management staff, lower profitability, products demand depended on government capital projects, The Company purchased 5MW power plant in 1991, macro-economic challenges such as devaluation of naira, energy sector crisis, foreign exchange rate, inflation, trade liberalization, inconsistent stabilization policies, political instability and banks’ strikes and weak private sector. Inferential result reveals that, has state ownership, percentage of management staff, percentage of non-management staff and privatization have positive and significant relationship with profitability. However, minority ownership has a negative and significant relationship with profitability. Based on these findings, the researcher arrived at the conclusion that, Corporate governance has significant impacts on profitability of Cement Company of Northern Nigerian. Even though, unfavourable macroeconomic environment militated against its efficiency. The study recommends that, government needs to introduce macroeconomic stabilization measures that will improve effective demand of cement products particularly with the problem of withdrawal of fuel subsidy in the economy. The company should, as a matter of necessity, design strategies that will; create international market opportunities, enhance security measures, cheap inputs, efficient financial and inventories management that will improve profitability post privatization.

Expanding Practices of E-Governance System in the Contemporary World

E-governance marks a significant transformation in public administration by incorporating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to improve government operations and enhance citizen interaction. This paper offers an extensive review and synthesis of empirical issues and practices related to e-governance worldwide, with a particular emphasis on Nepal. Through a systematic literature review, the study explores academic articles, books, and reports to uncover critical themes in e-governance frameworks, challenges in implementation, and overall effectiveness. Key findings reveal ICT's pivotal role in modernizing governance, the varying success of e-governance policies across nations, and specific challenges encountered in Nepal, including insufficient infrastructure, low levels of ICT literacy, and political instability. The paper identifies several research gaps, such as the need for detailed data from rural areas, the creation of a tailored digitalization strategy for Nepal, and a comprehensive examination of both the benefits and drawbacks of ICT in governance. It also proposes future research directions, highlighting the necessity of contextual adaptation and longitudinal studies to more effectively address local needs.

Indo-Nepal Treaty of 1950: A Realist Perspective

The Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, signed on July 31, 1950, between Nepal and India, was a landmark agreement aimed at fostering strong bilateral relations. The treaty facilitated free movement, residence, and business opportunities across borders, thereby enhancing mutual security and cooperation in the post-colonial South Asian context. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in promoting economic cooperation, defense collaboration, and cultural exchange. However, the treaty has also become a subject of debate due to shifting geopolitical dynamics and internal political shifts. This paper critically explores the treaty's influence on India-Nepal relations, focusing on its contributions to trade, investment, and defense collaboration. Despite these achievements, its relevance is increasingly questioned due to unresolved border disputes, China's growing presence in South Asia, and political instability within Nepal. The analysis suggests that revisiting and revising the treaty's provisions is essential to address these contemporary challenges. Ultimately, the study calls for a pragmatic approach that aligns the treaty with current geopolitical realities, ensuring a resilient and mutually beneficial partnership between India and Nepal. By adopting a realist perspective, this analysis underscores the strategic importance of adapting bilateral agreements to evolving regional dynamics.

Sustainable Competitive Advantage in the Legal Industry: A Review of Business Strategies and Market Entry Approaches for Gowling WLG in Japan and Nigeria

The modern business landscape has been notably disrupted by events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which reduced global trade by 13% to 23% in 2020, affecting the triple bottom line—profit, people, and planet—of the legal industry. This research develops a sustainable competitive advantage framework for Gowling WLG in emerging markets, focusing on Japan and Nigeria. The study compares Gowling WLG's business strategies and market entry approaches through a strategic management model and case study design, comparing the firm's operations in these diverse markets. Data was collected via document analysis, interviews, field observations, and megatrend articles to evaluate the competitive landscape. A context analysis of existing literature helped formulate relevant themes. Findings reveal the dynamic nature of the legal sector, influenced by political stability, economic conditions, technological advancements, and environmental concerns. Despite challenges like Brexit, global growth opportunities and threats coexist. Gowling's strengths include global recognition and advanced technology, but it also faces challenges in innovation and leadership. Opportunities lie in expanding the high-legal industry and offering sustainability-focused services, though cybersecurity risks and economic instability are significant threats. Strategic alliances with local firms for risk management and expertise are advised. Entering Japan requires thorough research, local collaboration, and cultural sensitivity. This research contributes to the empirical and theoretical literature, noting data reliability limitations, especially in Nigeria.