Government Recommendations Research Articles

ANALYSIS OF THE INVESTMENT CLIMATE OF DENMARK

The investment climate is a key factor for attracting capital, stimulating innovation and strengthening competitiveness. The purpose of the study is to analyze the current state of the in- vestment environment in the country, assess its attractiveness for foreign investors, and reveal the main factors affecting the development of business in Denmark as one of the leading countries of the European Union. The analysis of the investment attractiveness of the country is based on the research of available data, official reports and other sources of information. A general overview of the current investment climate in Denmark indicates that the country continues to be an attractive destination for investors. The country is known for its stable economy, high level of innovation and strong legal system, which creates a favorable environment for investment. The article carried out a thorough analysis of not only the main macroeconomic indicators, but also a comparative anal- ysis of investor protection, analyzed the dynamics of the corruption perception index, the level of education among the country’s population, and analyzed the innovative environment of Denmark. In addition, the article discusses the types of risk for investing in the Danish economy. Denmark’s successful competitiveness is due to a combination of several factors: emphasis on innovation and research, high quality education, flexible labor market, efficient infrastructure, state support for en- trepreneurship and a stable political and economic situation. The results of the study provide con- crete recommendations for government and business, promoting investment attraction and sustain- able economic growth in Denmark. The country has significant potential for further development of its investment climate thanks to numerous advantages, in particular in the fields of green energy and information technology. Denmark is pursuing an energy efficiency policy and phasing out fos- sil fuels, as well as investing in digital infrastructure. However, there are certain risks, such as po- litical and legislative changes, geopolitical factors, changes in international trade and market com- petition, which may affect investment activities in the country. Investors need to carefully analyze these risks and take them into account in their risk management strategies.

Coupled zoning and spatial heterogeneity of human activities and natural endowments based on self-organizing map and random forest: A case study of the agro-pastoral ecotone in Gansu, China

Regional zoning is an important way for humans to understand geographical space，but the existing research on regional zoning focuses on natural conditions, ignoring the interdependent characteristics of human and nature, and the driving mechanism of regional differentiation is not sufficiently explained. In this study, using algorithms such as self-organizing feature map, clustering quality index, structural similarity index measure (SSIM) and random forest, the human activity (HA)–natural endowment (NE) coupled zoning in the agro-pastoral ecotone in Gansu, China (AEGC), was conducted to explore the driving mechanism of regional differentiation. Results show the following: (1) The HA-NE coupled zoning has the best clustering effect when implementing the partitioning scheme with a classification number of 4. Accordingly, the AEGC can be divided into four regions with significant differences between HAs and NEs. (2) From the perspective of spatial distribution, HA–NE coupled zoning, climate zoning, geographic zoning, and vegetation zoning are similar, whereas HA zoning is different. The results of SSIM showed that HA–NE coupled zoning takes all types of factors into consideration (SSIM mean 0.708), and the zoning results are better than single type zonings. HAs have strong independence (SSIM mean 0.576), and geographic conditions are closely related to all other factors (SSIM mean 0.671). (3) Elevation is the most important driver of regional differentiation in the AEGC, with a contribution degree of 22.36%; other important drivers include land use intensity, precipitation, and normalized difference vegetation index, with contribution degree distributions of 17.38%, 16.34%, and 15.79%. Furthermore, the dominant factors of regional differentiation in each sub-region are different. This study emphasizes that regional characteristic factors and uneven spatial distribution factors are important drivers of regional differentiation, and land use intensity has become an important force influencing geographic space. Policy recommendations for zonal governance are made based on the inherent conditions of different regions. This study may provide a reference for scientific regional zoning and cognitive regional differentiation.

City civilization, employment creation and talent agglomeration: Empirical evidence from “National Civilized City” policy in China

China's rapid urbanization has intensified urban employment pressure. The National Civilized City (NCC) policy is a significant initiative in China aimed at promoting high-quality urban development. We utilize the NCC policy as a quasi-natural experiment and employ the staggered difference-in-difference method to empirically analyze the impact of urban civilization development on full employment and human capital level. The empirical results demonstrate that NCC policy significantly promotes urban entrepreneurship and employment creation, boosts labor demand of local enterprises, and enhances the human capital level. The positive effect on employment is significant in both talent-intensive and low- and medium-skilled intensive fields. In addition, heterogeneity tests show that this positive effect is more pronounced in low-tier cities and previously polluted cities. Finally, the mechanism analysis indicates that the NCC policy can enhance employment creation through investment promotion at the city level and by expanding production scale at the firm level. The NCC policy's impact on human capital level is supported by technological advancement and innovation emphasis mechanisms from the demand side, as well as talent agglomeration mechanism from the supply side. This study provides policy recommendations for local governments to leverage the achievements of civilized cities in promoting employment.

A rapid review of leading indicators to measure Australian farm safety culture

Agriculture accounts for over half of Australia's land use therefore the farmers managing this land need to be safe at work. This paper offers measuring farm safety culture as a way to overcome the stagnation in the trend of fatal farm injury burden. To work towards achieving a way to measure farm safety culture, this research reviewed the leading indicators of safety. Following PRISMA guidelines, we screened for globally significant literature in the field of methodologies to measure safety climate and safety culture. We performed a rapid review of literature resulting in nineteen articles that add to our understanding of how to create and re-adapt existing questionnaires and produce validated metrics. The leading indicators were grouped into 8 dimensions where we found a translational disconnect between safety for organisational structures and safety for family farm businesses. This paper provides recommendations for government, safety regulators, policymakers, and industry of the leading indicators that may be applicable for measuring farm safety culture for Australian farmers.

Exploring Ethical Space in land use planning: a case study of the Upper Columbia, British Columbia

In 2019, British Columbia (BC) adopted Bill 41: The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). DRIPA committed BC to developing a new planning process, modernized land use planning, that involves ethical collaboration with Indigenous Peoples. Although ethical decision-making in planning theory has emerged in academic discourse, planning practitioners are missing clear frameworks to implement theory in practice. Ethical Space, a conceptual approach used to balance power between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, may prove to be a promising implementation framework. This paper offers an exploratory application of Ethical Space for land use planning in Upper Columbia, a region in expressed need of modernized land use planning efforts. Research methods include semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Findings present recommendations for Upper Columbia governments to begin Ethical Space in land use planning. Key insights are transferable to planners with an interest in ethical collaborations between multiple governance structures.

The Nexus between Green Finance and Carbon Emissions: Evidence from Maturity Mismatch in China

Green finance has been widely acknowledged as a pivotal instrument for mitigating carbon emissions. However, few studies have focused on the role of maturity mismatches in promoting carbon emission reduction through green finance. This study aims to develop a composite criterion for green finance and examine the mechanism of how green finance affects carbon emissions via the new perspective of maturity mismatch. It is accomplished by applying a two-way fixed effects model which incorporates provincial data spanning from 2010 to 2020. The empirical evidence suggests green finance plays a significant role in carbon emission reduction, a result that remains robust even after undergoing other tests such as using instrumental variables and alternating econometric models. Furthermore, this effect is particularly pronounced in regions with high degrees of green finance and low energy consumption. Mechanism analysis documents that green finance reduces carbon emissions by addressing maturity mismatch issues faced by green enterprises. Further research finds that green finance can promote the synergy of pollution and carbon reduction; in particular, the effect of maturity mismatch on SO2 reduction is more obvious. Consequently, this study offers practical recommendations for governments, financial institutions, and other relevant policymakers to further propel the advancement of green finance.

An Investigation on Livelihood Status of Tea Workers at Doldoli Tea Garden, Sylhet

Doldoli Tea Garden is situated in Sylhet Sadar Upazila of the Sylhet district and is one of the 163 tea gardens in Bangladesh. The purpose of the study was to investigate the livelihood status of tea workers at Doldoli. A field survey was conducted and 60 tea workers were chosen randomly. The study revealed almost half of the workers had no formal education (48.3% %). Regarding monthly income, 55% of workers earn only 4500-5500 Taka. Most of the workers gave positive attitudes toward getting living facilities like electricity, sanitation, medical care, and hygiene maintenance. Though most workers have job security they don’t have bank deposits (80%). A low percentage (only 40%) of workers know human rights. Maximum workers (70%) agreed that trade union is not playing their role properly. About 86.7% of the workers have no inclusion in politics. Homestead practices and livestock farming are done by workers for both family and selling purposes but to a lesser extent. The study revealed that low wages are the main problem of the workers (30% agreed) and the possible solution given by most of the workers was increasing the wages which was 36%. For elevating socioeconomic standards, tea garden workers’ daily wages should be prioritized appropriately. The study's findings can assist in understanding and improving the livelihood of the Doldoli tea workers through policy recommendations for government and stakeholders, and approaches aimed at promoting labor rights, education, health, and overall well-being.

Exploring the Evolution Mechanisms of Social Risks Associated with Urban Renewal from the Perspective of Stakeholders

The urban renewal (UR) process involves various stakeholders and related activities, and the various risks arising from this endeavor can affect these stakeholders. Additionally, the impact of adverse factors such as policy discontinuity and inequitable distribution of benefits among stakeholders can easily result in collective tensions or conflicts, as well as the gradual emergence of potential social frictions and confrontations. These social risks (SRs) not only impede the smooth execution of urban renewal projects but also pose challenges to social harmony and stability. Hence, to mitigate and control the SRs in the UR process (URSRs) and ensure the successful implementation of effective and sustainable UR projects, it is of paramount importance to gain a comprehensive understanding of the occurrence and evolution mechanisms of these SRs. Although existing studies have touched upon the influence of stakeholder conflicts on URSRs, there remains a lack of systematic examination of the evolution mechanisms of these risks from the perspective of stakeholder theory. The resulting fragmented and specialized comprehension of URSRs has hindered the effectiveness of risk governance strategies. This study adopts stakeholder theory to analyze the potential sources of risk throughout the entire UR process. By considering the conflicts of interests among stakeholders, a systematic analysis of the evolution mechanisms of URSRs is explored and targeted governance recommendations for URSRs are proposed.

Effect of Taxpayer Knowledge and Taxation Socialization on Taxpayer Compliance: The Mediating Role of Taxpayer Awareness

This study dives into the complex dynamics of taxpayer compliance, investigating the interactions between knowledge, taxation socialization, and awareness in the context of fiscal control. To recognize the critical significance of taxpayer compliance to ensure economic stability, the study emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between legal requirements, societal influences, and individual comprehension. The study plays a critical influence on social norms and the moderating role of taxpayer awareness. The study prioritizes an enhancement to compliance modalities by giving theoretical underpinning and raising significant recommendations for government, tax officers, and researchers to ensure economic growth and development. The study used a structured questionnaire through purposive sampling to choose two and eleven (211) taxpayers within the Kumasi Metropolitan. The study revealed a positive correlation between tax knowledge and compliance. This study shows that socialization on taxpayer compliance has a positive significant impact. The effect of tax knowledge and tax socialization on taxpayer awareness is crucial, resulting in improved compliance. The study recommends efforts to improve tax socialization, counseling on the relevance of paying taxes; and intensifying educational agendas to raise residents’ understanding of taxation. Finally, the findings show the proactiveness and the potential to significantly enhance tax compliance and knowledge among Ghanaian taxpayers.

A maturity model for catalogues of semantic artefacts

This work presents a maturity model for assessing catalogues of semantic artefacts, one of the keystones that permit semantic interoperability of systems. We defined the dimensions and related features to include in the maturity model by analysing the current literature and existing catalogues of semantic artefacts provided by experts. In addition, we assessed 26 different catalogues to demonstrate the effectiveness of the maturity model, which includes 12 different dimensions (Metadata, Openness, Quality, Availability, Statistics, PID, Governance, Community, Sustainability, Technology, Transparency, and Assessment) and 43 related features (or sub-criteria) associated with these dimensions. Such a maturity model is one of the first attempts to provide recommendations for governance and processes for preserving and maintaining semantic artefacts and helps assess/address interoperability challenges.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Job Loss: Risks for Governments

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies presents both opportunities and challenges for labor markets globally. By adopting a qualitative methodology, this study analyses the impact of AI integration in jobs on the labor market and the subsequent policy responses by governments. The study specifies the industries and jobs that are highly susceptible to AI-driven automation, particularly those characterized by routine and repetitive tasks. The study also acknowledges the potential for AI to create new job categories. Key findings suggest that while AI poses a significant risk of job displacement in several sectors, it also offers opportunities for economic growth, opening of new jobs and innovation. Moreover, the study highlights various government strategies employed globally, including up-skilling and re-skilling initiatives, strengthening social protection systems, and fostering AI-human collaboration. These strategies aim to mitigate the adverse impacts of AI on employment and ensure a balanced transition to AI-integrated economies. Based on these strategies, the paper suggests some recommendations for governments to address AI-driven job losses, emphasizing the importance of multidisciplinary education, ethical AI use, inclusive growth strategies, and international cooperation.

Innovative Adaptations of Dance Performances at the Yogyakarta Palace during the Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic poses challenges to the world of performing arts, especially dance performances. Dance events that gather crowds were halted due to adherence to government recommendations to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Nevertheless, the Yogyakarta Palace managed to persist in showcasing their dances during the pandemic. Therefore, this article seeks to describe the response of the Yogyakarta Palace in addressing the challenges of dance performances during the pandemic. This is deemed important to provide insights into the creativity of artists in adapting the presentation of a dance during the pandemic to ensure its continued existence. This research takes the form of qualitative research with a performing arts approach predominantly based on literature studies. The Kraton Jogja YouTube account serves as the main data source to understand the innovative adaptations made by the Yogyakarta Palace. Comparative studies are employed to identify the differences in the presentation of dance before, during, and after the pandemic. The goal is to ascertain the efforts of innovative adaptation undertaken. The research indicates that innovative adaptation is carried out through creative costume design, audience engagement in dance events, and the utilization of internet technology advancements through virtual dance performances on the YouTube channel. As an adaptive effort, these creations are aligned with government regulations related to the containment of the spread of the Covid-19 virus. These innovative adaptation efforts bring about significant changes to the established ways of presenting dances at the Yogyakarta Palace.

Worlds apart? Investigating acceptance and usage demands of carbon-based cosmetics and clothing across European countries

BackgroundGlobal warming and the increasing risk of natural disasters force us all to act. As the reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions has been proven effective but insufficient on its own, Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) technologies emerged to fill the gap. Using CCU technologies, CO2 is captured and further processed into valuable products instead of being emitted into the atmosphere.MethodThis study investigates the prevailing public perception of such CCU-based products by the example of clothing and cosmetics. We applied the method of conjoint measurement to experimentally examine context-related factors (= attributes) in different usage settings and explored the consumers’ decision profiles for or against the usage of CCU-based products (cosmetics and clothing). Conjoint measurements were realized as an online experiment, addressing acceptance patterns and preferences in four European countries (Germany, Norway, Spain, and Poland). In addition, we assessed general attitudes and affective assessments of the CCU products. A total of N = 828 participants took part in the study, and the international subsamples were comparable.ResultsResults revealed that health compatibility is the main adoption-driving factor in the decisions for or against the use of the products. Still, attributes like the environmental impact, product quality, and information flow play an important role as well, even though to a lesser extent. Participants from different countries significantly differ in their cognitive and affective evaluations of acceptance-related attributes.ConclusionsThe outcome provides insights into differences in Pan-European comparison and helps to understand the public motives and country-specific terms of use for CCU-based products, effectively establishing recommendations for policy and governance.

Pemetaan Klaster Industri Kreatif Kuliner Khas Kalteng Di Kota Palangka Raya Dengan Analisis Kluster Hirarki Sebagai Dasar Penyusunan Kebijakan Optimalisasi Kuliner Lokal

This research examines the mapping of creative culinary industry clusters typical of Central Kalimantan in Palangka Raya City using Hierarchical Cluster Analysis. The main objective of this research is to identify clustering patterns of the local creative culinary industry which can be the basis for formulating local culinary optimization policies. By applying Hierarchical Cluster Analysis, this research succeeded in uncovering the characteristics and relationships between creative culinary industry players in Palangka Raya, as well as development potential that can be improved through appropriate policies. It is hoped that the results of this research can provide strategic recommendations for local governments and other stakeholders in designing and implementing policies that support the growth of the creative culinary industry, while promoting the richness of Central Kalimantan's unique culinary delights.

Even though active recommendation for HPV vaccination has restarted, Japan's rates have not recovered.

Japan has a particularly critical situation surrounding its collapsed HPV vaccination program for preventing HPV-caused cervical cancers, a problem exacerbated by the lack of a national immunization database. We have determined the year-to-year HPV vaccination uptake by Japanese females and analyzed by birth fiscal year (FY) the monthly number of people receiving initial HPV vaccination. Our analysis covers the period from the start of public subsidies in 2010 to September 2023, using data provided by local governments. We calculated the cumulative number of monthly immunizations for those unimmunized as of April (the beginning of each vaccination year). The monthly number of initial HPV vaccinations was highest in August for every FY from FY 2010 to FY 2023; a second vaccination peak tended to occur in March when the vaccination year ended. The highest number of August vaccinations occurred in FY 2011, followed (in order) by 2012, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2013. In Japan's ongoing catch-up vaccination program for young women, the monthly number of vaccinations increased in August 2022 but then slowed the following year. After FY 2021, the cumulative vaccination coverage of subjects unvaccinated at the beginning of the vaccination year but subsequently covered by routine immunizations was slightly improved. FY 2021 was when the governmental recommendations for HPV vaccination were resumed. More recent vaccination rates are considerably lower than those in FY 2011-2012 when vaccinations were first fully endorsed. Paralyzing HPV vaccination hesitancy, which began in FY 2013, will linger in Japan in FY 2024.

Investigating the temporal and spatial evolution of bank performance and its impact pathways in the context of financial technology development

Financial technology transforms humans and businesses as globalization and the digital economy accelerate. This affects bank performance. Thus, studying whether financial technology affects bank performance is crucial to enhancing living standards and business development. This article examines the development and interaction between financial technology and bank performance from 2012 to 2021 using standard deviation ellipses, kernel density estimation, Moran's index, and spatial econometric models. The research found that (1) financial technology development improves regional bank performance. In contrast, control variables like economic development, urbanization, tax burden, capital adequacy ratio, net interest margin, and loan-to-deposit ratio also affect bank performance. (2) From 2012 to 2021, Chinese bank performance initially grew, then declined, while financial technology declined slowly and improved rapidly. Financial technology and bank performance development were highest in the eastern coastal regions and lowest in the northwest and northeast. (3) China's financial technology and bank performance had high-high or low-low spatial agglomeration. (4) Financial technology and control variables have a spatial spillover effect on bank performance, so their development in one region can affect neighboring regions. This article provides recommendations for governments and banks based on these findings.

Predictors of solar water heater purchasing intention: an empirical analysis of residential behaviors in Hanoi city, Vietnam

Solar energy is a field that has grown rapidly in the world in recent years to solve the energy crisis and respond to climate change. Vietnam is a country with renewables energy potential including solar power and is pursuing net zero emissions target by 2050. This study explores factors affecting the residents’ intention to buy solar water heater in Hanoi, Vietnam. We used theory of planned behaviors and technology acceptance model to build research model and hypotheses. A community survey was conducted with 450 households in 3 districts using cluster sampling method to collect information. We conducted descriptive statistical analysis, Cronbach’s Alpha test, exploring factor analysis, conformity factor analysis and regression to identify and evaluate the impact of factors on solar water heater consumption intention. The results showed that there were significant factors affecting people’s intention to buy solar water heater including attitude, perceived usefulness, price perception, social influence and financial support in which attitude is the most influential factor. Regarding social characteristic of respondents, we also found positively significant relationship between income, education level and intention to use solar heater. Recommendations for government and business included increasing awareness of the benefits and economic feasibility of renewable energy devices to consumers through social media, implementing financial incentives to support clean energy consumption behavior, and strengtheing the emergence of local solar evangelist groups in the communities. Future research can expand to other cities and explore more indirect factors affecting the green energy consumption behavior of Vietnamese residents.

Institutional quality, economic development, and the sustainable outcomes of PPP projects: An empirical analysis of failed PPP projects in China from 2014 to 2020

The trajectory of China's PPP market since 2014, characterized by rapid expansion and a high failure rate, now plunges into a state of limbo and uncertainty. Through a quantitative analysis of failed PPP projects in China from 2014 to 2020, this study investigates the impact of local government institutional quality, private capital business environment, local economic development, and local fiscal affordability on the development and implementation of PPP projects. The findings reveal that larger government size is associated with a higher likelihood of PPP project failure, while a favorable private capital business environment can mitigate the failure rate of local PPP projects. Furthermore, empirical results demonstrate a positive relationship between local fiscal affordability and the success rate of PPP projects. The analysis underscores the significant influence of the institutional environment on the effectiveness of PPP projects and provides policy recommendations for local governments to enhance the business environment and other key factors contributing to the resilience of PPP projects.

Evolving Challenges in the Implementation of China's "Four Frees and One Care" Policy for HIV/AIDS.

In response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic, China initiated the "Four Frees and One Care" policy in late 2003. This policy provided free counseling, testing, and antiretroviral treatment for people living with HIV, while also offering support to affected families. While instrumental in advancing HIV/AIDS prevention, the policy faces evolving challenges. This study aims to analyze this challenge from multiple dimensions and, based on this analysis, provide effective recommendations for the Chinese government to address it, promoting the sustainable development of the "Four Frees and One Care" policy. The research found that reduced government funding has led to the decline of grassroots organizations, creating a disconnect between administrative and treatment systems. Additionally, advancements in medical technology introduce new antiretroviral drugs, complicating their integration into the healthcare system. In the current healthcare reform, updating the list of free antiretroviral drugs proves challenging. Adapting the policy to contemporary HIV/AIDS prevention should be a priority for the Chinese government. Balancing financial constraints, organizational sustainability, and evolving medical technologies will be pivotal for the ongoing transformation of the "Four Frees and One Care" initiative.

Indonesia Paradox on Plastic Waste Import in International Policy and Social Movement Perspective

Indonesia, recognized as the second largest marine polluter globally, faces a significant environmental crisis despite stringent international policies and vigorous social movements advocating for sustainability. According to data from INAPLAS and BPS, Indonesia generates 64 million tons of plastic waste annually, with 3.2 million tons ending up in the sea. The waste management system in Indonesia is rudimentary, involving basic stages of collection, transportation, and disposal, with processing occurring only at the final destination. Amidst this waste crisis, Indonesia continues to import plastic waste from countries such as the United States, Germany, Australia, and Hong Kong, exacerbating the environmental and health hazards. This paper explores the paradox of plastic waste import in Indonesia, focusing on how international policies, including the Basel Convention and its recent amendments, intersect with local regulations and their enforcement. It also examines the role of social movements in combating plastic waste imports and advocating for environmental sustainability. The central problem addressed is the regulatory and social polemic surrounding waste importation in Indonesia, considering the social, political, and legal dimensions. Employing a conceptual and statute approach, the paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the waste import regulation issues linked to social problems within Indonesian society. It argues that the complexity of international trade, economic incentives, and insufficient regulation enforcement contribute to the paradoxical situation where policies and advocacy efforts seem misaligned with outcomes. The findings offer social and juridical recommendations for the Indonesian government and society to address the waste import dilemma effectively. By aligning policies with environmental goals and leveraging social movements, Indonesia can drive significant change towards sustainable waste management practices.