Policy Practice Research Articles

Governance and Territorial Cohesion Through Policies and Good Practices: A Focus on Local Development

The concept of governance initially emerged in the field of economics and business management with the objective of achieving greater efficiency. It was subsequently extended to the field of government management. In many countries, governance has become a topic of great importance as a result of the implementation of decentralization policies and the extension of popular participation in land use plans in the search for sustainable development. The study, developed in the Decentralized Autonomous Government of Portoviejo canton in the province of Manabí, had as its primary objective the verification of the knowledge of governance among decision-makers and other socially involved actors in the canton's land use plan in the search for sustainable local development. This was achieved through an analysis of the Plan, conceived and applied with the intention of fostering cohesion among the policies implemented. The study employed a combination of theoretical and empirical methods. The theoretical approach involved a review and analysis of the literature on the subject, while the empirical approach involved data collection through questionnaires administered to socially involved actors. This approach enabled the researchers to gain insights into the perceptions and experiences of these actors, and to assess the effectiveness of various governance practices.

Fostering educational excellence and addressing neoliberal challenges: Perspectives from principals and educators in Arab private schools in Israel

This study delves into the firsthand experiences of educators within private Arab schools in Israel in response to the escalating trends of privatization. Through conducting semi-structured interviews with 10 principals and educators from private institutions, a phenomenological approach was employed to uncover their perspectives on achievements and neoliberal challenges encountered in their educational roles. The findings elucidate a nuanced interplay of factors propelling the privatization process, including the demand for quality education, the cultivation of identity, and discontentment with public schooling systems. Participants highlighted the advantages offered by the flexibility and resources available in private educational settings. Nonetheless, concerns surfaced regarding issues of equitable access, regulatory oversight, workload demands, and clashes with the Ministry of Education’s privatization policies. Educators articulated both the benefits and risks associated with the privatization of schools. The study advocates for the implementation of standardized oversight mechanisms, specialized training to uphold principles of equity, fostering public–private partnerships, and the necessity for further research to shape practical policy that align privatization with educational excellence and equal opportunities. Insights gleaned from educational leaders navigating the complexities of privatization serve as a compass for devising strategies aimed at enhancing Arab schooling through evidence-based reforms.

Driving Paths and Evolution Trends of Urban Low-Carbon Transformation: Configuration Analysis Based on Three Batches of Low-Carbon Pilot Cities

In response to global climate challenges, urban low-carbon transformation has become a critical strategy for sustainable development. This study constructs a theoretical model for urban low-carbon transformation using the multi-level perspective framework. We focused on three batches of low-carbon pilot cities in China and employed fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to investigate the transformation pathways and impact mechanisms during the periods 2010–2012, 2012–2017, and 2017–2019. The results indicate that none of the six antecedent conditions is necessary for urban low-carbon transformation. Initially, the transformation is primarily driven by a pathway led by low-carbon industries. In the mid-stage, two pathways emerge: one dominated by the combination of low-carbon industries and research and development (R&D) human capital and another led by low-carbon consumption awareness and economic development levels. In the later stage, the influencing factors involve a combination across micro, meso, and macro levels, reflecting an increasingly diversified and intricate configuration. The regional industrial structure consistently plays a dominant role, while awareness of low-carbon consumption has grown over time. This study not only enhances our understanding of the underlying mechanisms but also provides practical policy recommendations for local governments to tailor their strategies for effective low-carbon transformation.

Extending the theory of planned behavior to predict the behavior of farmers in choosing low-water-intensive medicinal plants

Water scarcity has become a serious challenge in many parts of the world due to increasing demands and the impacts of climate change. The agriculture sector globally accounts for a major portion of water consumption, yet it also holds substantial potential for water conservation. Among the most effective ways to conserve water is to cultivate low-water-demanding crops, such as medicinal plants (MPs), instead of water-demanding crops (WDC). However, the voluntary participation of farmers, largely influenced by socio-psychological drivers, is crucial for successfully implementing most water conservation programs and needs to be addressed. Therefore, the main objectives of this paper were: (1) to identify the determinants that explain farmers' intention and behavior in cultivating MPs instead of WDC; and (2) to examine the effectiveness and performance of an extended version of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) in predicting farmers' intention and behavior toward cultivating MPs by innovatively incorporating four new variables into the original TPB model: perceived barriers, moral norms, compatibility, and relative advantage. The applicability of the theoretical framework was evaluated in the Sojasroud Plain, Zanjan province, Iran. The results of the structural equation modeling revealed that: (1) farmers' intention to cultivate MPs instead of WDC is significantly influenced by perceived barriers, moral norms, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control (the strongest predictor); and (2) farmers’ behavior in cultivating MPs instead of WDC is predicted by relative advantage, compatibility, and intention (the most prominent determinant). The R2 values for predicting intention and behavior were 55% and 53%, respectively. Based on the results, some practical policies were proposed to increase the cultivation of MPs in the study area.

EFFECT OF DATA PROTECTION FRAMEWORKS AGAINST CYBERCRIMES ON CYBER SECURITY IN NIGERIA

The paper Effect of Data Security Frameworks against Cybercrimes and Cyber Security in Nigeria critically examines the various data protection frameworks in Nigeria and how these are impacting curtailing cybercrimes in the country. The paper examined the institutions responsible for data security and how they carry it out. The work utilized both the secondary and primary sources of data collection. Key Informant Interview (KII) and the observation method were deployed to collect primary data for the study. Information on data protection was also collected from (NDPC) and other relevant agencies. Information from reports from the internet, scholarly articles in journals, and information from websites and books were used in the paper. The paper utilised the Social Strain Theory (SST) as the theoretical framework for the study. The paper observed that data protection regulations in Nigeria make it mandatory for all Public Institutions (PIs) in Nigeria to have a comprehensive cyber security framework, which is to protect against unauthorized access. Several factors are responsible for data insecurity and the attendant increase in cybercrimes in the country. These include, among others: i. Lack of knowledge on the part of most officers of the penalty for data breach allowed by them. ii. Poor dissemination of the content of the NDPA. iii. The poor economic condition of the country makes many officers to seek means of getting extra money, this also includes their volunteering information that they should not disclose in the first place. The paper observed that though cyber security in Nigeria is not within the mandate of the EFCC, the Commission plays very important role in dealing with the threat of cybercrimes in Nigeria. Records shows that of the 12,394 convictions of the EFCC from inception till 31st December 2023. Over 80% of them are on cybercrime and related offences. The paper concluded that inspire of the efforts of the EFCC and other agencies in tackling cybercrimes in Nigeria, the failure of the data protection frameworks in the country in ensuring confidentiality, integrity and security of the data at their disposal is the reason for the spiralling of cybercrimes in the country. The paper recommends that the Nigerian government adopt the best practice policies and regulations, promote awareness, and continuously update cyber security practices, which is germane to enhancing data protection in the country.

Escalating Global Threat of Heatwaves and Policy Options for Adaptation and Mitigation

This study evaluates the effects of intense and frequent heatwaves on human health, food security and infrastructure all having a direct bearing on sustainable development. It emphasizes that health issues such as cardiac and respiratory disorders, strokes, and mental health diseases are aggravated in harsh climates. This study focuses on the adverse implications of hot weather and the impact of said phenomenon on various fields of life. The aftermath of the excessive burning of fossil fuels and the emission of greenhouse gases have severely impacted the world by disrupting the economic stability of many countries around the globe. The heat waves are also responsible for low crop yield, fertilizer shortage and adverse impact on livestock. The intense and hot weather has not only caused power outages but also challenged infrastructure sustainability. The continuous usage of cooling systems is leading to urban heat islands adding more heat in the environment. This study highlights the challenges of climate change and brings attention to the need for sustainable development and practices to ensure proper heat management. After a deep insight into information and responses collected for the research, the study suggests some recommendations requiring all stakeholders including policymakers, implementing agencies, organizations and civil society to play their crucial role in devising and implementing suitable policy options and practices for adaptation and mitigation of climate change factors.

Framework Of Art Pre-Service Teachers' Professional Abilities For Effective Teaching

The effectiveness of art education relies heavily on the professional abilities of pre-service teachers, necessitating a deep understanding and enhancement of these competencies. This study delves into the critical role of art teachers' professional competence in shaping the effectiveness of art education. The study's findings encompass the conceptual framework of professional abilities, its integration into pre-service art teacher education, and its impact on teaching effectiveness in art education. Utilizing a library research approach, this study examines a conceptual framework of professional abilities, including (a)pedagogical knowledge, (b)instructional design, (c)assessment practices, (d)classroom management and (e)professional development. Findings highlight the significance of enhancing professional abilities, such as pedagogical knowledge and instructional design, to improve teaching quality and enrich student learning experiences in art education. The implications of this framework include (a) art teacher education programs, (b) educational policy, and (c) classroom practice. Suggestions include (a)enhancing simulation-based learning, (b)establishing mentorship programs, (c)promoting reflective practice, (d)facilitating peer collaboration, and (e)incorporating technology and cultural responsiveness into art teacher education. Overall, this study underscores the importance of cultivating robust professional abilities among pre-service art teachers to elevate the quality of art education and foster meaningful student engagement and learning.

One year analysis of Prospective Memory Clinics Registry in Qatar: A Critical Tool for Dementia Research and Policy Planning.

The Global Dementia Observatory (GDO) is a monitoring and accountability tool for the Global Action Plan on Public Response to Dementia 2017-25. Evidence from dementia registries may be utilized to better address WHO efforts in member countries, as well as to improve clinical practice and public health policy. The goal of this study was to analyze one-year data from a prospective memory clinic registry. This study was a baseline analysis of prospective memory clinics registry data of Qatar from January 1, 2023, through December 31, 2023. This study investigated the demographic, clinical, and lifestyle characteristics of 464 participants who were enrolled in memory clinics. Mild neurocognitive disorders were the most prevalent diagnoses in both sexes, affecting 61.5% of male patients and 63.7% of female patients. Dementia was slightly more common in men (19.8% vs. 18.9%), although delirium was more common in women (1.9% vs. 0%). In terms of risk factors, the analysis revealed that females were more likely to be obese (36.8% vs. 16.7% in males), while males had higher rates of diabetes (61.1% vs. 51.9% in females), hypertension (69.4% vs. 62.7% in females), and smoking (17.1% vs. 3.8% in females). The findings of this study highlight the differences in dementia risk factors between genders and races, highlighting the need for customized interventions. Furthermore, the registry is a great resource for policymakers and healthcare professionals, providing evidence-based suggestions to improve dementia care, increase the well-being of patients and caregivers, and maximize resource allocation.

Should a single growth standard be used to judge the nutritional status of children under age 5 years globally? No

Universal growth standards for under-five children, given the worldwide variation in healthy growth and several determinants of anthropometry, are imprecise measures of nutritional status, particularly when used cross-sectionally. In constructing the global-use WHO growth standard, linear growth differences between contributing sites and pooled mean were >0.2 SD in 37% of observations. Systematic reviews confirm even greater variability, notably amplified for weight-for-age and head-circumference-for-age metrics. Unsurprisingly, developed nations had higher, and LMICs lower, growth dimensions. Contextual growth references predict neonatal morbidities, pathological short stature, macrocephaly, cardiometabolic risk factors, and adult noncommunicable diseases better than the WHO standards. Child body composition also varies contextually, with greater adiposity despite comparable weights in South Asian populations. Thus, contextual references, though not the perfect solution, are better suited for everyday practice and nutrition policy. Growth standards should only be used as a screening for clinical judgments aided by precise biomarkers.

Dare scholars look to the future? Academia and strategic foresight for the European Union's foreign policy

AbstractDrawing on examples of foresight projects situated at the interface between academia and foreign policy practice, this article reflects on the role of academics in informing the practice of foreign policy‐making in the EU. The study explores why academics have rarely engaged in foresight over the past two decades and why this has changed in recent years. It argues that this shift is triggered, on the one hand, by the strategic blunders of the last decade and, on the other hand, by the conceptual developments within the disciplines of political science or international relations. After demonstrating the growing trend of scholarly engagement in foresight with a series of illustrative examples, the article discusses the added value and limitations of academic‐generated foresight for EU foreign policy. Taking these into account, the analysis indicates best practice solutions, such as foresight exercises, with the joint involvement of researchers and policymakers.

Harmonizing sustainable Horizons: Deciphering the intricate nexus between disaggregated financial inclusion and clean energy transition in BRICS economies

This study emphasizes the acceleration of clean energy (CE) adoption through financial inclusion (FI), particularly in the context of the rapid expansion of the BRICS economic cooperation alliance and its contribution to addressing environmental challenges. Specifically, this research assesses the impact of FI on the upward mobility of clean energy transition using annual panel data from 2004 to 2022. Utilizing a comprehensive set of pre-estimation techniques, this study employs the newly established Panel non-linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (P-NARDL) model for empirical analysis, supplemented by robust estimation methods. The findings reveal that various dimensions of FI, including financial accessibility, financial depth, financial efficiency, and financial stability, significantly influence the progression from nonrenewable energy sources to clean energy consumption. This study extends the examination to assess both the aggregate and disaggregated relationships among the variables. Using causality estimation, it identifies the presence of both bidirectional and unidirectional causality between the FI indices and CE. These findings offer practical policy implications for developing financial resources to accelerate the adoption of CE, thereby addressing the environmental challenges faced by the BRICS economies.

Spatio-temporal evaluation of ecological security of cultivated land in China based on DPSIR-entropy weight TOPSIS model and analysis of obstacle factors

Cultivated land’s ecological security ensures human well-being and is critical to global food security. However, the unchecked expansion and excessive exploitation of agricultural resources have led to considerable land degradation issues in China, including soil erosion, contamination, and environmental degradation, raising concerns over the cultivated land ecological security (CLES). Current research on cultivated land (CLES is relatively limited, particularly at the national level across different provinces. In addition, a unified and comprehensive CLES evaluation index system has yet to be formed. To fill this research gap, we construct a CLES evaluation system with 35 indicators from three dimensions of “society-natural-economy” based on the DPSIR model framework and entropy weight TOPSIS model. Simultaneously, we conducted a spatial–temporal analysis of CLES in 31 provinces of China from 2012 to 2021 and applied the obstacle degree model to analyze the main factors impeding the CLES in China. The results showed that: (1) During the study period, the CLES and its subsystems showed a good development trend. Spatially, the CLES in China presents a regional difference of “high in the east and low in the west” and a significant regional difference among provinces. (2) The spatial CLES in different provinces of China presents a significant positive correlation, and the spatial clustering effect of CLES is gradually strengthening. The “High-High” clusters are mainly distributed in the northeast and eastern regions, while the “Low-Low” clusters are mainly located in the western region. (3) From the perspective of the criterion level, the state subsystem and the impact subsystem are the main obstacles hindering the improvement of CLES in China. At the indicator level, the common obstacle factors affecting the enhancement of CLES across provinces in China include soil erosion control intensity, number of green food certifications, per capita agricultural loans, per capita cultivated land area, and per capita grain production. Our research results can provide practical policy reference for further improving the ecological protection of cultivated land.

Perceived Ageism in Health Care: A Hybrid Concept Analysis.

Identifying perceived ageism is a critical step in eliminating ageism. This hybrid concept analysis aims to describe the concept of perceived ageism in health care. In the theoretical phase, a scoping review was conducted. In the field phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine community-dwelling older adults. In the final analytical phase, results from the theoretical phase were integrated with those from the fieldwork phase. The perceived ageism in health care includes four dimensions: self-internalization (self-denial, a sense of unease, and passivity of behavior in seeking health care), interpersonal interaction (perceived negative perceptions, neglected attitudes, and unfair care behaviors), organization system (perceived strangeness caused by unfamiliar technology, unsupportive environment, and inadequate resources), and procedure policy (perceived uniformity of healthcare process and lack of targeted practice policies). Research related to this concept has contributed to developing measurement tools for assessing perceived ageism in healthcare practice and subsequent research.

Attracting Private Investment to Renewable Energy Projects in India

Attracting private investments to renewable energy projects is a topic of significant debate within academic circles. This study investigates the relationship between green fiscal policy and green monetary policy concerning investments in renewable energy in India, spanning from 1990 to 2021, employing the ARDL (Autoregressive Distributed Lag) technique. The findings reveal that green taxes can positively or negatively impact investments in renewable energy sources. Furthermore, green monetary policy, mainly through the provision of green loans, accelerates investment inflows into renewable energy sources in the short and long terms. Challenges hindering private investment in India's renewable energy sector include compounded risk and inflation. Nonetheless, financial development and literacy rates are crucial in expanding investment in renewable energy sources. Based on these findings, practical policy recommendations for India entail enhancing sustainable literacy through green education, promoting social inclusivity, and establishing effective monetary and fiscal policies.

Does the Innovative City Pilot Policy Promote Urban Energy Use Efficiency? Evidence from China

The innovative city pilot policy (ICPP) is a key policy practice in China’s innovation-driven economic strategy, yet its influence on urban energy use efficiency (UEUE) has yet to be assessed. This study used balanced panel data from Chinese cities from the period of 2006 to 2022 to investigate the impact of innovative cities on urban energy consumption efficiency. The double-difference method, which treats creative cities as quasi-natural experiments, was applied to identify the impact mechanism of these cities. Additionally, this study looked at heterogeneity from several angles and assessed the effects of the policy on the environment. Following thorough testing to guarantee the reliability of the findings of this study—such as changing variables, ruling out further policy interferences, and running placebo tests—it can be concluded that the pilot program significantly improves urban energy consumption. The mechanism analysis performed in this study shows that, via talent concentration, utilizing technology, and optimizing the industrial structure, the creative city pilot policies increase energy consumption efficiency. Additionally, a heterogeneity analysis shows that eastern cities and cities with a high degree of digital finance benefit most from the legislation in terms of energy consumption efficiency. The application of creative city pilot programs has a more noticeable effect on increasing the energy consumption efficiency in eastern cities, as well as in cities with a high degree of digital infrastructure and digital finance, according to the heterogeneity analysis. Furthermore, an environmental consequence test shows that, by encouraging the growth of UEUE, the development of innovative cities can successfully help to reduce carbon emissions.

Empowerment through event management: A project management approach for women entrepreneurs

This review paper explores the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face in the event management industry and proposes strategies for their empowerment. Women in this sector encounter various barriers, including gender bias, limited access to funding, insufficient networking opportunities, and difficulties balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Societal expectations and industry-specific factors further exacerbate these challenges, hindering women's advancement. The paper highlights the importance of promoting gender equality, improving access to financial resources, enhancing networking and mentorship opportunities, and supporting work-life balance. Additionally, it emphasizes the need to increase women's visibility in leadership roles within the industry. The recommendations aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women entrepreneurs, fostering their growth and innovation in event management. Future research directions are suggested to identify best practices for supporting women entrepreneurs and to provide data-driven insights for policy and industry practices.

People Don’t Practice What They Preach? Inclusive Educational Policy and Exclusionary Practices for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in China’s Compulsory Education: A Critical Assessment

Purpose: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental disorder characterized by behavioral deficits. In China, children with ASD find themselves critically challenged due to inadequate support and insufficient awareness among the general public. Methods: This paper illustrates the implementation of Learning in Regular Classroom Program (LRC) in China, comparing and deconstructing the special education policies in two consecutive phases in a southern metropolis in China. Results: A Critical assessment reveals 1) retrogression in guiding principles, 2) inconsistent models of disabilities, 3) consistent use of enrolment rate as Key Performance Index (KPI) and 4) non-mandatory use of language to guide implementation. Conclusion: The widening gap between the conceptualization and realization of the LRC in China is beyond question. Suggested solutions are: 1) professional projection of possible challenges for children with ASD; 2) adequate supply of resource classrooms and special education teachers appointed for the implementation of the Individual Education Plan (IEP); 3) a statutory code of practice in ASD studies.

The Effect of Cash Management and Credit Policy on Liquidity and Profitability of MSMEs in Bandung City

This study examines the impact of Cash Management and Credit Policy on the Liquidity and Profitability of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Bandung City. Utilizing a quantitative research approach, data were collected from 210 MSMEs through structured questionnaires employing a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 5. The data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS 3). The results reveal that both Cash Management and Credit Policy have significant positive effects on the Liquidity and Profitability of MSMEs. Specifically, effective Cash Management enhances a firm’s ability to meet short-term obligations, thereby improving Liquidity, while robust Credit Policy practices directly contribute to both Liquidity and Profitability by ensuring timely collections and minimizing the risk of bad debts. These findings underscore the critical role of strategic financial management in sustaining the financial health and growth of MSMEs in Bandung City.

Explaining the burden of cultural factors on MS disease: a qualitative study of the experiences of women with multiple sclerosis

BackgroundMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating, non-traumatic disease that is common among young adults. Cultural factors, as background factors, can affect how patients adapt and their quality of life. This study aimed to explain the burden of cultural factors on Multiple sclerosis.MethodsThis study was conducted with a qualitative approach and conventional content analysis among women with Multiple sclerosis in Mashhad. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews with women with MS. Fifteen patients with Multiple sclerosis were selected using purposeful sampling. The Graneheim and Lundman method was used to analyze the collected data. The transferability of the study was evaluated using the Guba and Lincoln criteria. MAXQADA 10 software was used to manage and analyze the data.ResultsIn explanation of the cultural factors of patients with Multiple sclerosis, one category (cultural tensions) and five subcategories (forced communication with spouse’s family, definition of women’s role in society, people’s behavior, social beliefs and isolation of the patient) were extracted.ConclusionThe results obtained in this study show that female MS patients face various concerns. Overcoming these challenges require a change in the attitude of people in the society towards women with MS, which is important in the context of formulating practical policies to create a suitable culture. Adopted policies should aim to internalize the culture of changing society’s views of female MS patients. Therefore, the authors argue that there is a need for cultural policies, followed by the systems implementing these policies to consider the challenges mentioned in this study as a priority for MS patients.

The Frontier Exploration of the Development Trend of Key Technologies in Digital Healthcare in Medical Big Data Analysis

With the rapid development of medical big data, digital healthcare as an interdisciplinary field is gradually transforming the traditional healthcare model, continuously advancing the realization of personalized medical services and remote health monitoring. This paper systematically reviews 138 research articles related to the development trends of key technologies in digital healthcare, exploring various critical areas including digital health and privacy security, the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in health, remote monitoring and mobile health, medical data analysis and electronic health records, and the ethical and policy challenges in digital health. Studies indicate that the improvement of privacy security measures and efficient medical data processing technologies are the foundation for the safe promotion of digital healthcare; Artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies play an important role in enhancing the accuracy of diagnosis and disease prediction. Meanwhile, mobile health and remote monitoring technologies show great potential in improving the accessibility and continuity of medical services. In addition, this paper discusses the challenges of ethics and policies in digital health practice, such as data sharing, conflicts of interest, and respect for patient privacy. Future research must focus on refining technological solutions to address these challenges and fully integrate digital healthcare technologies into clinical practice.