Political Stability Research Articles

From Indigenous Resistance to the Contemporary Argentine Contempt for Authority

The political stability of a modern democracy, excluding environmental or external causes, is determined by multiple factors, all influenced by human behaviour. One indicator of political stability that takes the human factor into account is the time in office of a ruler. The stability of a ruler can be directly affected, for example, if they are killed, or indirectly, if the laws issued by the ruler are not followed. Non-compliance is dependent on the level of contempt for authority among citizens. A post-hoc hypothesis from a previous publication suggests that indigenous contempt for the authority of the white conqueror and coloniser is seen as a primary causal factor of political instability in Argentina. In this work, indigenous contempt has been shown to have originated from the mistreatment of indigenous peoples by the conqueror and coloniser, and it is expressed in practice by laws and norms being violated as a covert form of resistance. This behaviour has been spread throughout Argentine society due to extensive genetic mixing between Amerindian and Eurasian peoples, initially encouraged by the Spanish Crown. It is observed that these behaviours persist in the 21st century, partly because mistreatment and discrimination against indigenous peoples continue, and partly because pigmentocracy exists, a social system where wealth and status depend on skin colour. It is therefore crucial to understand that a large part of the causes of Argentina's political instability can be traced to the non-compliance with laws and regulations, which originated as forms of indigenous resistance to the Spanish conqueror and coloniser. Public policies aimed at improving compliance should be designed to integrate indigenous cultures into Argentine identity, ensuring that all citizens wish to comply with the laws because they now see them as their own.

CONCEPT AND CHARACTERISTICS OF CUSTOMS AUTHORITIES’ COMPETENCE IN THE CONTEXT OF INNOVATIVE PROCESSES IN UKRAINIAN CUSTOMS AFFAIRS

This article analyzes the concept and characteristics of customs authorities’ competencies in Ukraine within the context of ongoing innovations in customs practices. As Ukraine pursues its Euro-integration goals — aimed at modernizing economic infrastructure, overcoming technological lag, attracting foreign investments, and enhancing international competitiveness — customs authorities play a pivotal role in ensuring the effective functioning of foreign economic activities. The focus of the article is on the necessity to modernize the competencies of customs authorities in line with global standards and to implement advanced innovative technologies, as outlined in Ukraine’s Innovation Development Strategy up to 2030. It examines the impact and significance of innovations such as the ‘Single Window’ system, ‘Smart Customs’ initiatives, pre-arrival cargo information technologies radio-frequency identification (RFID), and blockchain for enhancing customs control, management, and interactions with external partners. A central issue discussed in the article is the development of new competencies required for the effective implementation of these innovations by customs authorities. Specifically, it addresses the need to cultivate digital, intellectual, partnership, and security skills. The article also explores the effects of economic and political instability, particularly the wartime conditions in Ukraine, on the implementation of innovations in customs operations. Key challenges are identified, such as difficulties in exporting high-tech goods, granting incentives for importing innovative equipment, and applying non-tariff regulatory measures, including certification, quotas, and licensing. Recommendations are provided for improving the organizational structures of customs authorities and updating the legal and regulatory framework to adapt to modern requirements and standards. The article advocates for the development of a new, intelligent customs system that can swiftly and effectively respond to changes by employing cutting-edge digital technologies and security methods. Emphasis is placed on the importance of enhancing the qualifications of customs professionals, which is essential for the successful implementation of innovations in customs control.

Determinants of bank deposit in a small economy’s banking sector: a study of Fiji

Purpose Deposits, a liability component of banks’ balance sheet, are an important source of funding for commercial and retail banks. In this study, the authors consider deposits as dependent variable and examine factors (bank-specific, macrofinance and structural) that could plausibly explain deposits. Subsequently, the findings are expected to support analysts, bank managers and regulators, especially in small economies such as Fiji, for asset–liability management. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a balanced panel of six commercial banks and two credit institutions over the period 2000–2022. To control for bank heterogeneity, a fixed-effect regression method is used. Findings Bank-specific variables such as bank size, profitability, loan-to-deposit ratio and bank stability are positively associated with bank deposits, whereas the capital adequacy ratio is negatively associated with bank deposits. Macroeconomic variables such as remittances and gross domestic product per capita are positively associated with bank deposits. Moreover, institutional variables such as control of corruption, political stability and regulatory quality are positively associated with bank deposits. However, tail events such as the global financial crisis of 2007–09 and the COVID-19 pandemic negatively influence bank deposits. Structural breaks for 2007 and 2011 of two banks (Bank of the Baroda and Bank of the South Pacific, respectively) are positively associated with bank deposits. Originality/value Previous studies have considered profitability, competition, nonperforming loans and stability of banks in Fiji. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to consider the determinants of bank deposits, an important source of funds for banks in many small countries including Fiji. In addition, this study examines the impact of structural breaks, tail events such as the recent pandemic (COVID-19) and institutional variables.

A Study on the Influence of Social Support and Work Engagement on Secondary Teachers’ Occupational Well-being in Sulaymaniyah-Iraq

The educational system in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, faces significant challenges due to political instability, economic hardships, and conflict. These factors contribute to the stress and burnout experienced by secondary school teachers, affecting their occupational well-being. This research aims to investigate the relationship between social support and work engagement on teachers' occupational well-being, with the objectives of understanding how these factors interact and proposing strategies to enhance teachers' occupational well-being. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized the Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire, the NIOSH Questionnaire, and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale to collect quantitative data from 120 secondary school teachers in Sulaymaniyah. Qualitative data were gathered through semi- structured interviews with a subset of 15 participants. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25 software for quantitative analysis and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. The results revealed a positive correlation between social support and work engagement with teachers' occupational well-being. Work engagement was found to mediate the relationship between social support and occupational well-being. Teachers expressed that a supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and recognition contribute significantly to their job satisfaction and overall well-being. To promote teachers' occupational well-being, it is recommended that schools and policymakers focus on creating a supportive work culture, providing opportunities for professional development, and recognizing teachers' efforts. Implementing mentorship programs, facilitating collaborative learning communities, and offering incentives can further enhance teachers' work engagement and occupational well-being.

Greek Poetry in a Multicultural Society: Sicily and Salento in the Twelfth and Thirteenth Centuries

Abstract In the twelfth and thirteenth centuries, southern Italy experienced a period of relative political stability and economic prosperity under the Normans as well as the Hohenstaufen dynasty that succeeded them. These cultural conditions fostered a cultural resurgence, which included the composition of Greek poetry. Poets in Sicily wrote from within a multicultural context, including the presence of Arabic- and Latin-speaking communities. Many of their poems illustrate the generative intersections between the Byzantine-Constantinopolitan, Latin, and Arabic traditions. Later in Salento, poetry was written in a rather closed Greek-speaking, Orthodox society. Comparing Greek poetry from Sicily and Salento shows some differences between composition in the two regions. Whereas Sicilian poetry includes especially creative narrative poems, composed for the rich and sophisticated courts of the island, the Salentine poetry bears the stamp of the schoolroom. In fact, most poems from both Sicily and Salento survive in manuscripts that can be traced to a pedagogical environment. While the circulation of these poems was limited to their surrounding regions, their literary sophistication betrays remarkable creativity and the multicultural conditions of composition, further evidence of the vitality of Greek literary culture far from the heartland of the Byzantine Empire.

Determinants of bank profitability in Ethiopia: does political stability matter?

Determinants of bank profitability in Ethiopia: does political stability matter?

Institutional quality and economic growth in upper-middle-income African countries

PurposeTo determine which proxy institutional quality variables are most significant for a country’s economic growth, the paper aims to investigate the effect of institutional quality on economic growth in upper-middle-income African nations between 2002 and 2021.Design/methodology/approachIn an attempt to account for countries' heterogeneity, the study uses a random and fixed effect model estimated by the generalized least squares.FindingsThe empirical findings demonstrate that the institutional quality measures of political stability, voice and accountability, corruption control and violence absence are statistically and favorably significant factors influencing the economic growth of upper-middle-income African countries.Originality/valueThis paper is unique in that it uses both random and fixed effects models to determine the effect of institutional quality on economic growth in the context of upper-middle-income African countries between 2002 and 2021.

THE ROLE OF PARLIAMENT IN RESTRICTING THE POWERS OF THE GOVERNMENT RESEARCH ON INSTITUTIONAL BALANCE IN IRAQ AFTER 2005 (COMPARATIVE STUDY)

This research deals with the relationship between the ministry and parliament under the current Iraqi constitution of 2005, with a comparison to the current Egyptian constitution of 2014, which examines the role of parliament in restricting the powers of the government and achieving an institutional balance between the two authorities (legislative and executive). The importance of the research lies in analyzing the impact of the balance between the two authorities on political and administrative stability in Iraq and seeking to find solutions to improve the balance and cooperation between them to achieve the state's public interest. It also aims to study the factors that lead to balance or imbalance between the ministry and parliament in Iraq and find practical solutions to improve them to achieve more excellent political stability. The research relied on the comparative approach between the two constitutional systems (Iraqi and Egyptian) and analyzed both countries' legal and constitutional texts. It adopted the hypothesis that there is a mutual influence between the ministry and parliament in Iraq and that improving the balance between them, in turn, leads to the stability of the political system in Iraq. It showed that the executive authority is dominant at the expense of the legislative authority in Iraq, with a limited influence of the legislative authority in legislation laws. This research showed that strengthening parliamentary oversight methods can be used to achieve institutional balance and political stability.

Customs competencies in ukraine: embracing innovation for enhanced efficiency

This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the concept and features of the competencies of Ukrainian customs authorities considering ongoing innovations in the customs sector. As Ukraine follows its Euro-integration path, aimed at modernizing its economic infrastructure, addressing technological gaps, attracting foreign investments, and enhancing its international competitiveness, the role of customs authorities becomes vital in facilitating effective foreign economic activities. The article underscores the critical need to update the competencies of customs authorities to meet global standards and incorporate advanced innovative technologies, as envisioned in Ukraine’s Innovation Development Strategy up to 2030. It explores the impact and relevance of innovations such as the ‘Smart Customs’ initiatives, ‘Single Window’ system, pre-arrival cargo information systems, radio-frequency identification, and blockchain technology in improving customs control, management, and interactions with external partners. A major focus of the article is on the new competencies required by customs authorities to successfully implement these innovations. It highlights the importance of developing digital, intellectual, partnership, and security skills. Furthermore, the article examines the effects of economic and political instability, particularly the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, on the innovation processes within customs operations. It identifies significant challenges such as the difficulties in exporting high-tech goods, offering incentives for the import of innovative equipment, and the application of non-tariff regulatory measures, including certification, quotas, and licensing. The article provides detailed recommendations for enhancing the organizational structures of customs authorities and calls for updating the legal and regulatory framework to align with current demands and standards. It advocates for the creation of a modern, intelligent customs system that can rapidly and effectively adapt to changes using state-of-the-art digital technologies and security methods. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of enhancing the qualifications of customs professionals, which is deemed essential for the successful integration of innovations in customs control.

It’s not just about jobs: The significance of employment quality for participation in political violence and protests in selected Arab Mediterranean countries

It is often proposed that the young unemployed are more likely to engage in political violence, conflicts, and protests. One problem in studying the unemployed – especially in the Global South – are the blurred lines between the unemployed, the employed, and those working in the informal sector. Further, the employed are a heterogeneous group so employment quality might also play an important role. To tackle these issues, this study uses a new quantitative dataset, which covers youth in five Middle Eastern and North African countries: Algeria, Egypt, Lebanon, Morocco, and Tunisia. These data provide considerably more fine-grained information about the employment situations of the respondents than the datasets previously used. The study investigates separately two forms of political participation: in political violence and in demonstrations. The regression analyses show that there is no clear difference between the young unemployed and the young employed in their likelihood to participate in the studied political activities. However, some features related to employment matter. Those whose employment status is ambiguous are substantially more likely to participate in demonstrations and political violence than the employed. Among those who work, those who are dissatisfied with their work and those who work fewer hours participate more often in these activities. Income on its own does not seem to have an effect; however, those who have more assets are more likely to participate, and compared to those who feel themselves middle income, those feeling rich or poor are more likely to engage in political violence and demonstrations. The results suggest that instead of thinking in terms of a dichotomy of the employed and unemployed, more emphasis should be placed on understanding the variety of employment situations and employment quality and their impact on political instability.

Стабильность современной политической системы Вьетнама: эволюция, вызовы и перспективы

This article examines the stability of the modern Vietnamese political system through a comprehensive review and analysis of its historical evolution, governance structure, economic reforms, and the intricate interplay of socio-political factors. Since the implementation of Doi Moi economic reforms in 1986, Vietnam has experienced significant transformations, that have led to rapid economic growth and increasing political stability. This study delves into the pivotal role played by the Communist Party of Vietnam in maintaining a one-party system while simultaneously introducing market-oriented reforms. It evaluates the impacts of such reforms on the political landscape, discussing how economic success has contributed to the legitimacy of the state and sustained public confidence. Furthermore, the research identifies internal and external challenges faced by Vietnam, including corruption, human rights concerns, and the pressures of globalization, while examining the state's response through institutional reforms and policy adjustments. The findings of the study suggest that Vietnam's political stability is influenced by a complex set of factors, including economic achievements, institutional reforms, and the central role of the Communist Party.

A Global Perspective on Renewable Energy Implementation: Commitment Requires Action

Meeting renewable energy targets is one of the most significant global challenges to achieving SDG 7—Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all. This study focuses on the global energy transition to understand the factors that influence success or failure in achieving targets. First, the gap between the stated targets and our predictions was calculated. Next, the roles of economic, political, and environmental variables in determining this gap were analyzed. Data were collected from 63 countries from 2000 to 2022, ensuring the global representativeness and robustness of the results. Many countries may struggle to meet their renewable energy targets. Political stability, regulatory quality, and investment freedom play a remarkable role in helping countries get closer to achieving their targets. More industrialized countries with large populations face greater challenges due to high energy intensity. This paper aims to predict the propensity of countries to meet their energy targets by integrating the forecasting and analysis of the economic, political, and geographical factors that influence a green transition. The results provide new insights into how socioeconomic and geopolitical differences influence the energy transition, offering insights for more effective policies. It is argued that accelerated administrative procedures are needed to reduce investment uncertainty and improve energy systems’ flexibility. In addition, involving local communities in the decision-making process is important to ensure the acceptance of RE projects. Finally, introducing energy markets that reflect the characteristics of renewable sources is recommended to facilitate a more rapid and sustainable transition.

Analyzing the 'Supply Creates its Own Demand' Phenomenon in the Context of Jammu and Kashmir's Economy

This paper examines the phenomenon of "supply creates its own demand" in the context of Jammu and Kashmir's economy. Originally posited by Jean-Baptiste Say, this economic principle asserts that the production of goods and services leads to the generation of income and demand for those same goods and services. In this study, we aim to explore how this phenomenon unfolds within the unique socio-political, geographical, and economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. By analyzing key sectors such as agriculture, industry, and tourism, we assess how production drives demand and evaluate factors inhibiting this dynamic, including political instability and infrastructural challenges. A regression analysis is used to provide empirical insights, followed by policy recommendations that could enhance the region's economic growth.

Conceptualizing National Security in an Era of Great Power Rivalry: Implications for International Economic Law

AbstractUntil recently, the national security exception in investment and trade was understood in terms of defense against military invasion or attack and possibly extendable to economic collapse. However, national security is increasingly understood far beyond the classical contours of territorial integrity. Driven primarily by the China-U.S. hegemonic competition, the new conceptualization is exemplified in a dramatic expansion in U.S. investment and trade measures based upon conceptualizing national security as encompassing threats to a fusion of interrelated spheres of national strength including economic, technological, and ideological power. Moreover, the U.S. now understands security as the retention of superiority in an array of power spheres and encompasses denying China access to emerging technologies. China has similarly expanded her definition of security which is often referenced as “national interests” and embraces political stability (Party dominance), social stability, ideological security, and the defense of Chinese overseas interests, all of which lie far outside the classical definition of security. The untethered expansion in both the U.S. and Chinese conceptualization of security raises significant ramifications for the international economic architecture. As the guardrails of security are abandoned in pursuit of policy goals, a potentially overly broad and excessive notion of security risks deepening several overlapping perils to the current international legal landscape. The focus of this article is on the expansion of the national security exception in investment and trade and potential implications arising from an unfettered expansion.

Internal Quality Control and the Role of Learning Management Systems (LMS) in Higher Education Institutions in Sierra Leone: Then, Now, and Later

The paper explores the evolution of Internal Quality Control (IQC) in Sierra Leone's higher education institutions (HEIs) with a specific focus on the transformative role of Learning Management Systems (LMS). Beginning with the colonial era, the paper traces the historical context of IQC, emphasizing its informal nature. The post-independence expansion of HEIs introduced quality challenges compounded by economic constraints and political instability. The civil war further disrupted the education sector, and the reconstruction period saw the establishment of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC), formalizing IQC processes. The introduction of LMS platforms, such as Moodle and Google Classroom, marked a pivotal shift in enhancing educational quality. LMS has significantly contributed to data-driven decision-making, standardized educational processes, and continuous feedback mechanisms. However, challenges remain, including infrastructural limitations and the urban-rural digital divide. The paper also projects the future of IQC, highlighting the potential integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and blockchain in LMS platforms. These advancements promise to revolutionize the educational experience, offering new possibilities for quality assurance and student engagement.

Freedom of the Press, and Journalism Practices in Times of Uncertainty in the Case of Ethiopia

ABSTRACT Ethiopia has been in a new transition since 2018 which resulted in changes in political arenas. In this period, the country has also been experiencing internal conflict and political instabilities. This article assesses how the political environment is convenient for the journalists to freely report stories, and how journalists practice their professional roles which have not yet studied. The article used both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative data was collected through in-depth interviews with key media practitioners. The quantitative data was collected through a self- administered questionnaire from selected 164 journalists from the public, and private media in the country. The result shows journalists’ freedom and practicing their profession in reporting stories from different views in the current unstable situation in the country are highly challenged. Among the respondents, more than 65% confirmed that they are not free to report stories; 95% of the sampled journalists either self-censor or ignore stories about conflicts and other critical issues in the country. The journalists are highly pressurized by the government and other actors who have ardent interest in controlling media to propagate their agenda and in silencing the critical voices. This put journalists to stack between a rock and a hard.

The Dynamics of Disparity: A Comprehensive Analysis of the Causes and Consequences of Income and Wealth Inequality and Policy Interventions for Mitigation

In today's global economy, economic disparities remain a pressing issue, persisting across different societies. This paper explores the causes, impacts, and potential policy interventions to address income and wealth inequality. The analysis draws on insights from prominent economists such as Darren Acemoglu, James A. Robinson, Joseph E. Stiglitz, Branko Milanovic, Thomas Piketty, and Emanuel Saez. According to the study, globalization, automation, and labor market dynamics are key economic factors driving inequality. In addition, political and social factors, including tax policies, governance models, and access to education and healthcare, significantly impact economic distribution. The consequences of inequality are multifaceted, affecting economic growth, social mobility, social health, and political stability. Furthermore, this paper discusses various policy interventions, such as progressive taxation, improved access to quality education and healthcare, and more robust social safety nets, as potential solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of economic disparities and promote a more equitable distribution of wealth.

Challenges of International Investment in Real Property Portfolio in Nigeria

A real estate portfolio enables investors to diversify their investments and mitigate risk, thereby achieving consistent income through rental yields, property value increases, and various investment returns. It presents opportunities for long-term wealth accumulation and financial stability. Moreso, a foreign investor who is looking to invest in Nigeria has these goals in mind, with an understanding that an effectively managed portfolio can improve cash flow and provide tax advantages. This paper investigates the challenges associated with international investment in Nigeria's real estate sector, which is important for economic advancement yet presents numerous challenges for foreign investors. The study introduces both global and local perspectives and outlines the nature of international real estate investments and their importance to Nigeria's economy. It identifies and analyses the primary challenges encountered by international investors, including economic factors such as inflation and currency fluctuations, legal and regulatory challenges like land tenure issues, and political instability characterised by policy changes and corruption. Additionally, the paper addresses cultural and social hurdles, such as language differences and local perceptions of foreign investment, along with infrastructural shortcomings, including inadequate urban planning and insufficient facilities. It was recommended that reforms should aim to stabilise the economy, enhance legal clarity, promote political stability, and improve infrastructure. The conclusion highlights the necessity for a comprehensive strategy to attract and retain international investors, detailing measures to alleviate challenges and create a favourable environment for real estate development in Nigeria.

One Health Index applied to countries in South America.

The One Health concept has proposed an integrated and unified approach aiming for health balance and enhancement by recognizing the interdependence of human, animal, and environmental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed global One Health initiatives and policy improvement toward preventive measures for future pandemics, particularly of zoonotic origin. Such a scenario may be particularly relevant for South America, which is considered highly vulnerable due to its natural biodiversity superposed to socioeconomic and environmental issues, demanding effective methods and indicators for proper One Health strategies and goals that are aligned with macroregional contexts. Accordingly, the present study aimed to assess the One Health Index (OHI) in South American countries, along with potential interactions with socioeconomic indicators. The results obtained using clustering analysis and permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA) have revealed a positive association between the OHI and the Human Development Index (HDI) but not with gross domestic product (GDP). Although South American countries with political stability, robust investment in health, and progressive policies have shown a higher OHI, better environmental health is not associated with better human and animal health. In addition, although the Amazon biome- spanning 9 of the 12 South American countries-has positively impacted environmental health, this benefit contrasts with the rudimentary local human health systems, highlighting the complexity of One Health within the South American context. The lack of stronger indicators for animal health was also considered an important weak point for a true OHI assessment. Nonetheless, countries with more developed livestock have presented better animal health, which may not reflect an overall animal health indicator, as companion and wildlife animal health indicators were not available. Although lower (within-country) scale analysis such as states and metropolitan areas may better shape internal differences, the study herein has clearly shown One Health inequalities and challenges among South American countries. Equally important, forests and other natural areas in developing countries, particularly the Amazon, should receive incentives to promote sustainable economic growth. This approach would help prevent sacrificing environmental health for the benefit of human and livestock animal health.

ПРОБЛЕМИ ТА ПЕРСПЕКТИВИ СТРАХУВАННЯ ТУРИСТИЧНОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ

The article discusses the types of insurance in tourism. Based on the analysis of the insurance market of Ukraine, it was established that the number of insurance companies decreased by almost three times during the years 2015-2022, and 25 insurance companies worked in the field of tourism in 2023. It was revealed that the following companies are the leaders in the travel insurance market: European Travel Insurance, ARX, VUSO, PZU Ukraine. The factors that hold back the development of tourism insurance are highlighted: military actions due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, political instability; decrease in the number of tourists, low solvency of the population; imperfect legal framework; poor awareness of the population in the field of tourism insurance; public distrust of insurance companies; a narrow range of insurance services in the field of tourism insurance; incomplete and untimely fulfillment of obligations to policyholders; limited scope of insurance protection due to reduction of insurance prices by insurers; decrease in the quality of insurance products; insufficient professional level of insurance company specialists; overall low development of the country's insurance market. The main trends in the field of insurance in Ukraine are revealed: individual policies for certain tourist segments, use of artificial intelligence, transformation of products into the format of electronic policies, blockchain technologies. Directions for solving problems in the field of insurance in tourism are indicated: improvement of the regulatory and legal framework; ensuring political stability, increasing economic development in the state; training of highly qualified personnel in the field of insurance; improvement of insurance culture; creation of protective mechanisms for tourists; assistance from the state to the development of the insurance market in Ukraine; improvement of the risk management mechanism; increasing public trust in insurance companies; expanding the list of insurance services and improving their quality.