Recent Legislation Research Articles

Thailand’s National Screening Mechanism: A Case of Partial Acculturation to International Refugee Law

ABSTRACT The 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, together with its 1967 Protocol, is the foundation of the contemporary international refugee regime. Despite criticisms of Eurocentrism, the Refugee Convention continues to have a significant impact on regional conventions, national legislation, and evolving norms and standards. Within Southeast Asia, some scholars contend that the refusal of non-signatory States to accede to the Convention demonstrates their rejection of international refugee law. However, State practices suggest that even signatory States, despite their professed ‘acceptance’ of international refugee law, sometimes implement measures that contravene the Refugee Convention. In contrast, non-signatory States demonstrate varying degrees of contributions to the normative development of international refugee law. In the absence of treaty obligations, the Bangkok Principles on the Status and Treatment of Refugees serve as Southeast Asia’s primary non-binding normative framework for refugee protection. This article investigates recent developments in Thailand, a non-signatory State, specifically the establishment of the National Screening Mechanism (NSM). The article fills a significant gap in the growing body of research on the contributions of non-signatory States to the normative development and reinforcement of international refugee law by providing a detailed, country-specific analysis of Thailand’s recent legislation. Using the socialization theory of acculturation, this article contends that Thailand’s refusal to accede to the Refugee Convention does not constitute a rejection of international refugee law. Rather, it reflects Thailand’s commitment to align with international refugee law. However, a thorough analysis reveals that Thailand’s 2019 Regulation on the Screening of Aliens adopts a security-oriented framework by instituting national security exceptions at various stages of the NSM process, reflecting Thailand’s efforts to balance humanitarian concerns with national security priorities, with a discernible inclination towards the latter. The Regulation’s strong emphasis on national security suggests that Thailand’s acculturation to international refugee law is only partial. The research advocates for a rights-based approach to mitigate the negative consequences of the security-oriented framework, with the goal of improving refugee protection in Thailand.

A Review of Hazardous Waste Management's Recent and Previous Legislation

The concept of the community squander or society squander is advanced over the period of time, in spite of the fact that the sum of squander produced was comparatively little amid this period. It was as it were since of the corrupted environment (in advanced term “Polluted Environment”); the concept of neo-Hippocratic pharmaceutical concept came into hone which was vital as an successful degree against major cause of human mortality emerge out of collection of squander materials and scourge. This has driven to the exercises towards city cleanliness begun in Europe and US for the most part amid the period of 1750 to 1850 to avoid any conceivable plague. Amid the same period horticulture was the most action being carried out all through the word and utilize of certain family squander materials was utilized as fertilizer in farming areas. The environment subsequently making unfavorable affect on an biological system and life. With headways in mechanical insurgency an gigantic sum of mechanical squander is being conveyed to the environment subsequently making antagonistic affect on an environment and life Between the past two eras, the concern related to the hurtful impacts of the transfer of different mechanical squanders on the open wellbeing have raised genuine talk about among and between numerous experts from diverse disciplines inside the open wellbeing community. From chemical designing point of view, era of HW in any mechanical prepare is unavoidable and harmfulness or risk related with this category of squander is the potential for illness or passing. Common squander which was transcendent prior incorporates for the most part biodegradable squander having least natural affect. Burning was the as it were transfer instrument accessible. In any case, within the present day civilization with development of Industrialization and expansion of multidisciplinary angles to squander, its administration gets to be an autonomous subject.

EVOLUTION OF INCLUSIVE EDUCATION POLICIES IN PORTUGAL

Inclusive education in Portugal has undergone significant transformation over recent decades, driven by shifts in social, political, and legal frameworks that reflect a growing commitment to human rights and equal access to education. The movement from a historically segregated model to an integrated approach, catalysed by the Salamanca Declaration of 1994, has been pivotal in shaping contemporary educational practices. This study analyses how Portuguese policies on special needs education have evolved from the 1970s to the present and examines their implementation in practice in compulsory education. The primary objectives are to analyse the impact of key legislative changes, particularly Decree-Law 3/2008 and Decree-Law 54/2018, on the inclusivity of the education system and to assess how these policies have been operationalized in schools. The findings reveal that while significant progress has been made in integrating students with special needs into mainstream education, challenges remain in achieving uniform implementation and in ensuring that all educational professionals are adequately prepared to support diverse learning needs. The shift towards a more flexible and personalized educational approach, as mandated by recent legislation and inspired by the Salamanca principles, marks a crucial step towards a more inclusive education system.

Lessons for the United States from Pharmaceutical Regulation Abroad

Pharmaceutical markets are characterized by barriers to entry and information problems. Many countries intervene in the pricing and reimbursement of drugs to a greater extent than the US government to date. Continued pressure from politicians and recent legislation are likely to change the market for pharmaceuticals in the United States. This article discusses the approaches adopted in other developed countries and the implications of their use in the United States, which due to its size, has far greater influence over the rate and direction of innovation. Alternative policy choices and the challenges of their implementation are also reviewed.

Public-Private Collaboration in Building the U.S. EV Supply Chain: A Financial and Economic Review

The expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) sector is central to the United States’ clean energy transition, yet building a resilient and competitive EV supply chain remains a significant national challenge. This review explores the strategic role of public-private partnerships (PPPs) in accelerating the development of the domestic EV supply chain, with a focus on infrastructure deployment, battery manufacturing, financial structuring, governance, and policy implementation. Drawing on recent federal legislation, case studies, and academic literature, the paper analyzes how PPPs enable risk-sharing, capital mobilization, and cross-sector coordination. It critically examines the structural and geopolitical vulnerabilities that hinder progress, including fragmented governance, labor shortages, and foreign material dependencies. The review also outlines best practices in stakeholder management, data integration, and investment incentives, offering actionable policy recommendations to strengthen national resilience and competitiveness. Ultimately, the paper positions PPPs as a foundational mechanism for aligning industrial policy with sustainability, innovation, and economic security in the evolving clean energy landscape.

Ideological awareness in practice: perspectives from experienced introductory biology instructors

ABSTRACT Ideological biases influence how we perceive, conduct, and teach science, yet traditional science education often neglects inherent sociocultural dimensions of scientific knowledge. Ideological awareness as pedagogy remedies this by acknowledging and accepting ideological influences, enabling students to make these connections and challenge prevailing worldviews. Given recent legislation in the United States that has prohibited instructors from teaching ‘divisive concepts’ in higher education, it is valuable to understand biology instructors’ perspectives on teaching about ideological influences on science, their motivation and value behind this practice, and how they integrate ideological awareness in science education. Participants in the current study included biology instructors across the United States who implemented ideologically aware modules within their courses. Through a mixed-method analysis of questionnaire and interview responses, we found the educators strongly valued the content and were intrinsically motivated to implement modules featuring ideologically aware topics. Instructors reported that identifying and addressing prevalent ideological influences has implications for future scientists and citizens. However, they believed additional opportunities for reflection, interaction, and collaboration among faculty are necessary to facilitate implementation. We conclude with recommendations for pedagogical change based on their insights and advice for instructors.

The impact of adolescent dating violence and abuse on victims’ mental health and social isolation: a thematic empirical evidence review

Purpose Adolescent dating violence and abuse (ADVA) can have severe and long-lasting implications for the mental health, cognitive development, and overall wellbeing of young people at a complex developmental stage. The purpose of this paper is to scrutinise current literature and consider the impact of early intimate dating abuse, exploring how factors such as the quality and influence of peer relationships can be critical foundations to young people’s vulnerability or resilience. The significance of certain childhood adversities as predictors of increased risk of future ADVA perpetration and victimisation will be considered. Design/methodology/approach In this article, the authors examine the impact of ADVA on victim-survivors focusing on mental distress, including self-harm, depression and anxiety, continuous traumatic stress, post-traumatic stress disorder and suicidal ideation. The authors also examine the pervasive influence of ADVA on victims’ social isolation and exclusion from networks of social support. ADVA often causes victims to be fearful, entrapped, isolated and controlled. Findings Societal normalisation of dating abuse and rape myths can exacerbate a victim’s feelings of self-blame and shame, severely impairing young people’s ability to disclose and seek external support, perpetuating feelings of helplessness. In integrating recent research, legislation and government reports, the authors demonstrate the necessity of addressing ADVA through a whole school approach, trauma-informed interventions and authentic educational programmes. Originality/value This article contributes to the growing body of literature, emphasising both the mental health impact and urgent need to change attitudes and behaviours underlying ADVA. The authors offer recommendations for policy and practice such that the needs of victims can be better met whilst perpetrators are offered support and held to account.

“ESG” Targets in the Corporate Governance of Banks: KPI and Double Materiality (Impact and Financial Materiality)

Abstract 738The article addresses the role assumed by the banking sector in the transition towards a more sustainable economic system, i. e. one that combines the pursuit of profit with due consideration of other objectives aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of entrepreneurial activity on human rights and the environment. Known by the acronym “ESG”, we refer of course to so-called “Environmental, Social and Governance” objectives. The research focuses principally on the corporate governance “tools” that banking institutions must equip themselves with to facilitate an approach that considers “ESG” factors not only as elements of risk to be contained, but also as an opportunity to be managed and included in industrial plans. With the emphasis being on the means to integrate sustainability into the business of the banking, the analysis looks at recent European legislation on sustainability reporting, which introduces the principle of “double materiality”, and pays particular attention to Italian legislation and the doctrinal debate therein.

Leadership in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion: What Skills and Attributes Are Documented in the Literature?

Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) leadership has recently been scrutinized, and many institutions have had to repurpose EDI leaders due to recent legislation. The skills or attributes of EDI leaders are not well understood. The authors sought to identify skills or attributes associated with EDI leaders. The authors searched the PubMed database using the search terms "Diversity," "Equity," "Inclusion," "Leadership," "Chief diversity officer," "Diversity leadership skills," and "Diversity officer." The authors then reviewed titles, abstracts, and papers to identify the skills or attributes of EDI leaders. The search yielded 580 items. The authors analyzed the 10 remaining papers after the abstract, title, and paper review. All of the authors reviewed the articles and constructed the following list of skills: motivating others, fostering potential, inspiring trust, thinking strategically, setting goals and expectations, giving feedback, and being authentic. EDI leaders are well equipped for leadership in other spaces because the skills and attributes identified in this review are transferrable to assistant and associate dean positions, chair positions, and other leadership positions in academic medicine. Individual EDI leaders can use these documented skills and attributes to reposition their leadership in this ever-changing political environment. Institutional leaders also can use this information to retain talented EDI leaders in influential leadership positions.

The Barriers of Florida’s Anti-LGBTQ+ Laws in Healthcare and Its Impact on the Mental Health of Gender and Sexual Minorities

Introduction: Recent legislation in Florida, including SB 254, SB 1580, and HB 1557/1069, has created barriers for LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly those seeking gender-affirming care (GAC). SB 254 limits access to GAC by restricting Medicaid coverage and allowing only physicians to provide treatment. SB 1580 permits healthcare providers to refuse treatment based on personal beliefs, further reducing access. HB 1557/1069 prohibits discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in schools, increasing social stigmatization of LGBTQ+ individuals. These legal changes contribute to worsening mental health outcomes in this community, notably depression and anxiety. Methods: A prospective survey of 131 LGBTQ+ individuals and allies in Florida was conducted using convenience sampling at local LGBTQ+ events. The survey assessed the perceived impact of each law on daily life, access to healthcare, and mental health. Depression and anxiety were measured using the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales. Results: Transgender and non-binary participants were disproportionately impacted by SB 254, with 85% reporting reduced access to GAC. These participants also reported longer delays in receiving care and heightened fears of future healthcare refusals due to SB 1580. LGBTQ+ participants reported noted increased anxiety due to the broader stigmatizing effects of HB 1557/1069 in educational and social settings. Among gender minorities, 82% reported severe depression. Conclusion: Gender minorities in Florida face severe consequences from recent legislation, including significant barriers to gender-affirming healthcare and heightened mental health challenges. This study showed a disproportionate impact on gender minorities which prompts targeted advocacy and healthcare reforms to support this vulnerable population.

An analysis of recent EU policies and legislation to counter terrorism: is it time for more coordinated action?

An analysis of recent EU policies and legislation to counter terrorism: is it time for more coordinated action?

International experience in combating domestic violence

The problem of domestic violence is a global social phenomenon that requires a comprehensive approach to overcome. In Ukraine, in recent years, legislation and mechanisms for supporting victims of violence have been actively improved, but the problem remains relevant, and the country continues to look for effective ways to combat this phenomenon. The article examines international practices in combating domestic violence, in particular in Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden. In Italy, an important role is played by a large-scale system of crisis centers that provide psychological, legal and social support to victims. The Netherlands uses an integrated approach to preventing violence, combining legislative initiatives, the work of social services, law enforcement agencies and public organizations. One of the important initiatives is the participation of aggressors in specialized correctional programs that help change their behavior and ensure their reintegration into society. Spain is known for its system of specialized courts that deal with cases of gender-based violence, which allows for the prompt and professional consideration of such cases. An important feature is the presence of multidisciplinary courts, which employ specialists from different fields, which ensures a comprehensive approach to each case. Sweden, in turn, is distinguished by the strictest laws against violence, including the criminalization of economic violence, as well as special attention to children who have witnessed violence and provides them with psychological support. The article proposes adapting these international practices to Ukrainian realities, in particular through the implementation of educational programs in schools, the creation of sensory rooms for children, and strengthening legislative initiatives to ensure adequate support for victims. A study of international experience reveals the importance of a comprehensive approach, which includes not only legislative initiatives, but also the active participation of public organizations, educational institutions, and social services in solving this problem. By adopting best practices, Ukraine can significantly increase the effectiveness of the fight against domestic violence by providing comprehensive assistance to victims, working with aggressors, and creating a safe environment for all citizens.

Gender recognition and health rights vis-à-vis reproductive justice: Exploring the experiences of transmasculine persons in India

Background Narratives about trans women often dominate the discourse on ‘trans rights’ in India, meaning that transmasculine identities are often ‘invisible’ in public perception. Trans men are often neglected in gynecological and reproductive healthcare, including gender-affirming services, despite their distinct needs. Notwithstanding substantial progress in recognizing and protecting women’s reproductive rights, Indian judiciaries have persistently overlooked the reproductive and health rights of transgender individuals. The recent enactment of India’s ART Bill of 2008, the Surrogacy Bill of 2016, and the Transgender Persons Act, 2019 has further reinforced this conviction. Purpose The study aimed to explore trans men’s experiences of healthcare facilities and reproductive (in)justice as shaped by India’s recent legislations. Method Comprehensive searches were performed across multiple databases, including Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, and official government websites, employing search strings pertinent to gender recognition and assisted human reproduction (AHR) legislation, and reproductive healthcare. A total of four narratives were identified for discussion using thematic analysis. Results Four themes were developed: (1) uninformed and reluctant healthcare providers, (2) invalidation of gender identity and invasive questions, (3) lack of availability of free gender-transition services in public hospitals, and (4) denial of protection under constitutional framework. Conclusion This study adds to the expanding field of literature calling for transmasculine persons’ reproductive health rights and informing policies.

The Experience of East Texan School Librarians Who Participate in Self-Censorship

This literature review aims to synthesize research on the self-censorship practices of school librarians in Texas while also examining and interpreting the self-censorship experience. Various peer reviewed articles published within the last 20 years were analyzed for information on self-censorship practices and experiences. While self-censorship is opposed by all librarians, the studied school librarians have admitted to participating in self-censorship for a variety of reasons such as fear of reprimand, personal biases, and recent legislation changes. This literature review will also include recommendations for school librarians on avoiding self-censorship.

Birth and development of the SIMLII Guidelines Programme

This paper aims to review the steps that the Italian Society Occupational Medicine and Industrial Hygiene (SIMLI) has undertaken over the past two decades in the context of a process of integration with quality systems, resulting in several initiatives including the production of different tools for the updating and professional qualification of the Occupational Health Physician (OHP). The choice of focusing on a propositional-formative model such as the guidelines (GL) and the choice of the topics to be dealt with, was based on the need to provide the OHP with appropriate tools in order to face the complexity, specificity and rapidity of knowledge evolution which characterize our discipline. After the release of the first set of instruments (25 GL) over the five-year period 2003-2008, it became necessary to adhere to the guidelines of the GL National Program, distinguishing GL's evidence based, from consensus / orientation documents or technical assessments. In recent years, the introduction of the AGREE method has been of great interest and importance for assessing the quality of content and recommendations, also considering the recent legislation provisions on the criminal and civil liability of the Physician.

Implications of the decline in LGBT rights for population mental health: Evidence from Polish "LGBT-free zones".

Implications of the decline in LGBT rights for population mental health: Evidence from Polish "LGBT-free zones".

A DISPUTA LINGUÍSTICA NO ENSINO SUPERIOR E O IMPACTO NA FORMAÇÃO DOCENTE EM TIMOR-LESTE

The language policy of Timor-Leste has been one of the most controversial topics in the country’s educational and academic landscape. Since the reintroduction of Portuguese as an official language in 2002, its implementation in higher education has posed institutional, pedagogical, and sociocultural challenges. Despite recent legislation mandating Portuguese as the primary language of higher education, resistance persists among academics, teachers, and students, who argue that the labor market prioritizes English and Indonesian. The debate intensifies with concerns that language policies favor Portuguese over Tétum, raising questions about the balance between the two official languages. This article critically analyzes the linguistic dispute in Timorese higher education, considering its impact on teacher training, education quality, and graduate employability. The research follows a qualitative approach, based on bibliographic review and documentary analysis of current educational and academic policies. The findings indicate that linguistic fragmentation in universities compromises equal access to education and exacerbates social inequalities. Thus, strategies are proposed to reconcile the promotion of Portuguese with the realities of the national sociolinguistic context, such as structured bilingual education programs, enhanced teacher training, and the development of Portuguese-language academic materials adapted to Timor-Leste’s reality.

Blended natural gas/hydrogen fuel gas systems: An evaluation of risk

AbstractThe addition of renewably produced (“green”) hydrogen to existing natural gas pipeline systems presents an effective means of transmitting energy with a reduced overall carbon footprint while granting end‐users access to federal incentives, a product of recent climate legislation. Although the concept of blended hydrogen/natural gas infrastructure is not new, it presents a host of engineering challenges that merit attention before being put into practice. In consideration of dissimilarities in physical properties and combustion characteristics between natural gas and hydrogen, the safe implementation of converted utility systems demands a comprehensive assessment of risks involved, including both the probability of accidental leak (infrastructure durability, pipeline embrittlement, and increased leakage rate through permeable elastomer seals) and the impact following the release of material. In this article, hazard analysis considering the effects of loss of containment for natural gas/hydrogen blend composition scenarios (0–30% H2 by volume) is undertaken, specifically examining jet fire thermal radiation, flammable vapor dispersion, and vapor cloud explosions for fixed leak sizes. This investigation applies analytical techniques to evaluate the consequences of gas release behavior through vapor cloud dispersion and mixture deflagration simulation. The work aims to identify and quantify hazard severity and risk associated with system retrofitting for hydrogen blending within existing natural gas distribution networks.

Protection Scheme Aftermath of the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants in United Kingdom

This research explores the United Kingdom (UK) stance on asylum and migrant protection in light of the principles outlined in the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants. This Declaration, being a global agreement, led to the establishment of two key global compacts in 2018, guiding nations on migration governance. UK emphasizes its tradition of offering asylum to those escaping persecution, recent legislation has raised concerns. However, Nationality and Borders Act of 2022 introduces provisions that can discriminate against refugees based on their mode of arrival, even criminalizing asylum seekers. The 2023 Illegal Migration Act operates in the context of a significant asylum backlog, causing physical and psychological distress to individuals in the UK's asylum system. The UK's approach to offshore processing, exemplified by the UK-Rwanda agreement, raises concerns about circumventing international obligations and burden-sharing. The "Hostile Environment" policy disproportionately impacts people of color, potentially discouraging access to essential services. UK's approach to asylum and migrant protection needs reassessment to align with international standards. Revisiting recent legislation, addressing the asylum backlog, and reconsidering offshore agreements are crucial. Upholding modern slavery protections and reiterating the commitment to providing refuge while maintaining a compassionate approach is essential for the UK to fulfill its global responsibilities outlined in the New York Declaration.

The Effects of Medicaid Coverage for School-Based Health Services on the Supply of School-Based Healthcare Clinics: Evidence From the "Free Care Rule" Reversal and FQHCs.

To determine whether Medicaid coverage of healthcare services provided within schools affects the supply of school-based health clinics. We combine nationwide data spanning 2012-2020 on Federally Qualified Health Centers delivering health services within school settings with state policy information on Medicaid expansion to school-based healthcare. Until 2014, the federal "Free Care Rule" restricted school-based health centers from using Medicaid funding to provide health services unless these services were part of the student's Individual Education Plan. In 2014, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services reversed the free care rule, allowing states to opt in to authorizing Medicaid reimbursement for comprehensive health services delivered in schools to Medicaid-enrolled students. We compared the number of federally qualified school-based health centers in states that expanded their Medicaid policies in response to the free care rule reversal to that of states that did not expand their Medicaid programs to reimburse for school-based health services in a staggered difference-in-differences analysis. We also adjusted the analysis for other important measures that may independently affect school-based healthcare provision and funding decisions. The number of health centers delivering services in schools comes from the Health Resources & Services Administration. State Medicaid coverage policy information comes from the Healthy Schools Campaign. Expanding Medicaid coverage to comprehensive school-based healthcare increased the number of Federally Qualified Health Centers providing services in school settings by about 13.42 (p = 0.035, 95% CI: 0.94, 25.90). This increase represents a relative rise of 39%. However, these results are sensitive to specifications. Local educational entities, school health providers, and public health professionals are responsive to financial incentives to provide services to Medicaid-enrolled children within schools. Recent federal legislation has the potential to increase financial incentives and offer complementarities to prior state-level policy changes.